Monday 29 June 2015

By Francis Riggs


Endocrinologists are physicians with a specialty in diagnosing and treating diseases associated with glands that produce hormones. Patients who have hormonal imbalances will often see this medical professional after referral from a general practitioner. Many people who see an endocrinologist in Conroe TX suffer from diabetes or thyroid disorders.

To become an endocrinologist, candidates will undergo up to a decade of training. These individuals complete four years of medical school after obtaining a bachelor's degree. Medical school graduates must complete three to four years of residency before applying for a state license to practice medicine.

Many physiological processes require the presence of hormones. Hormones are produced by the body and in the most general sense, allow individuals to respond properly to their surrounds while providing the energy for normal function. Some of the processes regulated by hormones include food absorption, development, metabolism, and reproduction.

The exocrine and endocrine system, both provide hormones to the body but they work by different mechanisms. In the exocrine system, the gland delivers hormones via a duct attached directly to a target organ. The endocrine system secretes its hormones into the blood and relies on the circulation system to deliver the hormone to the proper organ. Endocrine glands include the pituitary, adrenals, hypothalamus, testes, thymus, and ovaries.

An endocrinologist receives the necessary training to diagnose hormone imbalances. When treating patients, their goal is to restore the proper balance. Depending on the disease, some of the ways they accomplish this is by blocking hormone production, prescribing hormone replacement therapy, or suggesting dietary changes.

Diabetics will often see the endocrinologist to help regulate their blood sugar level. Diabetes is a condition that occurs when the body does not receive enough insulin from the pancreas to control sugar consumed in foods. The high levels of sugar cause damage to other organs. Prescription medications or insulin injections regulate blood sugar levels. Patients can help the condition by reducing the amount of sugar they consume.

Patients who either have too much or lack enough thyroid hormone will see this specialist for help. A lack of sufficient thyroid hormone often causes constipation, achy joints and muscles, depression, fluid retention, and fatigue. Women with this condition often bleed excessively during their menstrual cycle. An endocrinologist can correct this disorder by prescribing a synthetic hormone to bring levels back to normal.

Having too much thyroid hormone in the body can lead to tremors, weight loss, excessive sweating, and an inability to tolerate heat. Patients with this condition often have a rapid heart rate and may feel nervous or anxious. Antithyroid medication keeps the thyroid from producing too much hormone. Symptom relief with this treatment can occur in one to eight weeks after beginning treatment.

Patients with other diseases may visit an endocrinologist for help. This type of medical specialist can help women manage menopause symptoms and work with couples who are experiencing infertility and want to have a child. Because many of these health issues require the patient to receive treatment for the rest of their lives, it is important they have a good relationship with the physician.




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