Why should I consult an endocrinologist?
Endocrinologists are superspecialists with DM in Endocrinology after MD in Medicine trained to diagnose and manage hormone-related conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, PCOS, obesity, osteoporosis, adrenal and pituitary disorders. Consulting one ensures accurate diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and long-term care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Diabetes
Q: What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body cannot produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes is caused by insulin resistance and is often associated with obesity and lifestyle factors. Type 2 diabetes has some subtypes which may also need insulin for proper diabetes control so timely Endocrine opinion is must.
Q: What is gestational diabetes?
It occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery, but it increases the mother’s future risk of Type 2 diabetes.
Q: What are common complications of diabetes?
These include diabetic retinopathy (eye damage), diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), and diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease).
Thyroid Disorders
Q: What are symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, constipation, and feeling cold.
Q: What are symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
Weight loss, palpitations, irritability, heat intolerance, and tremors.
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
Q: What is PCOS?
A hormonal imbalance in women that causes irregular periods, acne, weight gain, excess hair growth, and fertility problems.
Q: Can PCOS be cured?
PCOS cannot be completely cured, but symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes, diet, and medications.
Pediatric Endocrinology
Q: When should a child see an endocrinologist?
If they have abnormal growth, early or delayed puberty, obesity, or childhood diabetes.
Q: Can short stature be treated?
Depending on the cause, growth hormone and other therapies may help if started early.
Obesity
Q: Is obesity always caused by overeating?
NO NOT ALWAYS. Hormones, metabolism, and genetics can also contribute.
Q: How can an endocrinologist help with obesity?
By evaluating underlying causes, recommending diet and exercise plans, and prescribing weight management medications if necessary.
Osteoporosis
Q: What is osteoporosis?
A condition where bones become weak and fragile, increasing the risk of fractures.
Q: How is osteoporosis treated?
With calcium and vitamin D supplementation, exercise, and medications to strengthen bones.
Hyperprolactinemia
Q: What is hyperprolactinemia?
A condition with high prolactin hormone levels, leading to irregular periods, infertility, or breast discharge.
Q: Is it treatable?
Yes, usually with medications. Surgery is rarely needed.
Adrenal Disorders
Q: What are adrenal disorders?
Conditions such as Addison’s disease, Cushing’s syndrome, or adrenal tumors that affect stress response, blood pressure, and metabolism.
Pituitary Disorders
Q: What does the pituitary gland control?
The pituitary is the “master gland” that regulates growth, thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive hormones and disorders of pitutary gland or pitutary adenoma result in various hormonal imbalance.