What is endocrinology?
The body’s endocrine system consists of the thyroid, pineal, parathyroid, hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands, as well as the pancreas, ovaries in women, and testes in men.
Endocrinology services at CHW Cares include evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of gland and hormone problems. Examples include:
- Thyroid disorders
- Pituitary gland issues
- Other gland problems
- Diabetes
- Prediabetes
- Sex hormone imbalances
- Thyroid cancer
- Adrenal gland cancer
- Other types of cancers
Treatment can reduce unpleasant symptoms linked with hormone problems and improve your quality of life.
What symptoms can endocrinology address?
Common signs and symptoms you may experience with endocrine disorders include:
- Weight gain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Muscle mass loss
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Mood changes
- Being too cold or too hot
- Appetite changes
- Sexual dysfunction
- Hair or skin changes
- Increased hunger or thirst
- Increased urination
- Enlarged glands
If you experience new or unusual symptoms of a hormone problem, see the CHW Cares team for an evaluation. Early detection and treatment can reduce the risk of serious complications.
What are the risk factors for endocrine problems?
While the cause of endocrine disorders isn’t always clear, some factors may increase your risk of having them. Examples include personal or family history of endocrine problems, poor dietary habits, lack of exercise, and obesity.
How does my doctor diagnose endocrine disorders?
To determine if you have a gland or hormone problem, your CHW Cares provider checks your vital signs, discusses your medical history, asks about your symptoms, and completes a physical exam. They look for signs of illness and disease and may recommend you undergo blood tests, ultrasounds, or other diagnostic tests.
What are common endocrinology treatments?
If you struggle with an endocrine disorder and unpleasant symptoms, the CHW Cares team offers treatment. They could suggest you take medications, make lifestyle changes, try hormone therapy, or undergo a surgical procedure. Your provider might refer you to a specialist if you have thyroid cancer or another complex endocrine problem.
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