Endocrinologist is a doctor who has special expertise in conducting examinations and treatment related to endocrine system disorders. The endocrine system is the glands and organs that make hormones in the body.
An endocrinologist must complete an endocrine, metabolic and diabetes subspecialty education, after undergoing an 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 these various glands will release hormones in the body.
Endocrinologists specialize in treating patients with hormonal disorders or imbalances in the endocrine system. The goal is to restore hormonal balance to normal.
Several diseases are related to the endocrine system and are directly handled by an endocrinologist, 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, endocrinologists are also able to treat various endocrine disorders in children, especially growth disorders and puberty problems. However, this special treatment is generally carried out by a pediatric endocrinologist.
Action takenEndocrine Specialist
In making a diagnosis, an endocrinologist will usually trace the patient's medical history regarding the symptoms felt by the patient. After that, the doctor will likely involve several examinations, such as measuring height, weight, and vital signs, including blood pressure and pulse. Then proceed with a physical examination to assess for signs of interference or abnormalities experienced.
After conducting a thorough body examination, the doctor may request further examination in the form of blood and urine tests. This is done to determine hormone levels, so the doctor can determine whether you have a disorder in the endocrine system or not.
If the doctor finds signs of a disorder in the endocrine system, the doctor can provide medication or treatment according to your health conditions or disorders.
The Right Time to Check with the DoctorEndocrine Specialist
The right time to see an endocrinologist is when you experience common symptoms of endocrine system disorders, such as:
- Often tired
- Frequent stomach ache
- Weight change
- Dry skin
- Tingling in the feet and hands
- Visual disturbance
- Kidney problems.
Diabetes is one of the most common endocrine disorders. You should consult an endocrinologist if you have problems with blood sugar levels.
Likewise, if your child has growth disorders and puberty, you can check with a pediatric endocrinologist, to determine the cause and proper treatment.
Things to prepare before meeting an endocrine doctor
Before meeting an endocrinologist, it's a good idea to prepare several things to make it easier for the doctor to determine the right treatment, namely:
- A detailed history of complaints and symptoms.
- List medical or allergy history.
- List all medications and supplements taken.
- List important changes that have occurred in your life, such as weight changes or stressful conditions.
- A history of vaccinations you have had recently, such as tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
For recommendations from an endocrinologist, you can get it from a general practitioner or family and friends who have visited the specialist.