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Understanding the Duties and Diseases of Endocrine Specialists

Endocrine specialists are doctors who have special expertise in conducting examinations and treatments related to endocrine system disorders. The endocrine system is the glands and organs that make hormones in the body. An endocrine specialist must complete endocrine, metabolic and diabetes subspecialty education, after undergoing internal medicine specialist education.

Diseases Treated by Endocrine Specialists

The endocrine system consists of various glands, including the adrenal glands, pancreas, parathyroid, pituitary, ovaries, testes and thyroid. From various glands, it will release hormones in the body. Endocrine specialists specifically treat patients who experience hormonal disorders or imbalances in the endocrine system. The goal is to be able to restore hormonal balance to normal. Some diseases related to the endocrine system and directly handled by endocrine specialists, including:
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Weight problems and metabolic disorders
  • Osteoporosis and bone health
  • High cholesterol and triglycerides
  • Infertility
  • Menopause
  • Thyroid disease
  • Disorders of the adrenal glands
  • Disorders of the pituitary gland.
In addition, endocrine specialists are also able to handle a variety of endocrine disorders in children, especially growth disorders and puberty problems. However, this particular treatment is generally carried out by pediatric endocrine specialists.

Actions Performed by Endocrine Specialists

In making a diagnosis, an endocrine specialist will usually trace the patient's medical history regarding the symptoms felt by the patient. After that the doctor may involve several examinations, such as measurements of height, weight, and vital signs, including blood pressure and pulse. Then proceed with a physical examination to assess the signs of disturbances or abnormalities experienced. After carrying out a thorough body examination, the doctor can request further examination in the form of blood and urine tests. This is done to determine hormone levels, so your doctor can determine whether you have a disruption in the endocrine system or not. If the doctor discovers a sign of a disturbance in the endocrine system, then the doctor can provide medication or treatment according to your health condition or the disorder you are feeling.

The Right Time To Check Yourself To An Endocrine Specialist

The right time to see an endocrine specialist is when you experience general symptoms of an endocrine system disorder, such as:
  • Frequent fatigue
  • Frequent stomach pain
  • Weight change
  • Dry skin
  • Tingling in the legs and arms
  • Vision loss
  • Kidney problems.
Diabetes is one of the most common endocrine disorders. It is best to consult an endocrine specialist if you have problems with blood sugar levels. Likewise, if your child has a growth disorder and puberty, you can check it with a pediatric endocrine specialist, to ascertain the causes and appropriate treatment methods.

What Must Be Prepared Before Meeting An Endocrine Doctor

Before meeting an endocrine specialist, it's a good idea to prepare a few things to make it easier for the doctor to determine the right treatment, namely:
  • History of complaints and symptoms experienced in detail.
  • List of medical history or allergies.
  • List of all drugs and supplements consumed.
  • List important changes that have occurred in your life, such as changes in body weight or stress conditions.
  • A recent history of vaccination, such as tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
For recommendations from endocrine specialists, you can get them from general practitioners or family and friends who have gone to the specialist doctor.

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