Endocrinology is a specialty of internal medicine which deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to hormones. Endocrinology covers such human functions as the coordination of metabolism, movement, respiration, reproduction, and sensory perception. It also focuses on the endocrine glands and tissues that secrete hormones.
What is the Endocrine System?
The human endocrine system consists of several glands. These glands produce and secrete hormones which control the body’s metabolism, growth, sexual development and function. Hormones leave the glands, enter the bloodstream and are transported to organs and tissues all over the body.
Adrenal, ovaries, testicles, pancreas and thyroid are a few of the many glands in the human body treated by an endocrinologist.
What Are Endocrine Disorders and Diseases?
There are three groups of endocrine disorders:
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Endocrine gland hyposecretion – when the gland is not producing enough hormone. It can lead to hormone deficiency.
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Endocrine gland hypersecretion – when the gland is overactive and produces too much. It can lead to excess hormone levels.
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Tumors of endocrine glands – these may be cancerous or non-cancerous.
What is an Endocrinologist?
An endocrinologist is a doctor who treats complex conditions which involve hormones and several different human body systems. Hormone problems are diagnosed and treated by attempting to restore hormone balance within the body.
An endocrinologist diagnoses and treats the following disorders:
- Thyroid disorders
- Diabetes mellitus
- Lipid disorders
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome
- Adrenal, pituitary and parathyroid disorders
- Osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease
- High blood pressure
- Cholesterol problems
- Menopause
- Metabolic disorders
- Excessive or insufficient production of hormones
An endocrinologist receives over 10 years of training. In the U.S., becoming an endocrinologist involves:
- 4 years at college
- 4 years at medical school
- 3 years of residency
- 2 years of fellowship
If your primary care physician or family doctor suspects there’s a problem with your endocrine system, he or she will refer you to an experienced and caring Gainesville endocrinologist.
Learn about endocrinology, thyroid disorders, and related topics in our knowledge center, and if you have a specific question or issue, please feel free to contact us and schedule an appointment today.