You know what does an endocrinologist do? He is the professional who helps diagnose and treat diseases related to hormones and metabolism. But that’s not all that sums up this specialist’s work. This September 1st, on National Endocrinologist Day, we’ll talk a little more about this medical specialty, what an endocrinologist does and what health problems this professional deals with. Who helped to tell a little more about the subject was the endocrinologist Christiane Archangel. Check out!
What is an endocrinologist?
After all, what does an endocrinologist look after? The word “endocrine” in medicine refers to the glands or what they produce. Therefore, endocrinology is a specialty that takes care of the hormones produced by the glands of our body, as explained by Dr. Christiane. “The main areas of activity include thyroid disordersdiabetes, cortisol disorders, reproduction disorders such as infertility and problems related to puberty, growth, as well as disorders of the adrenal and parathyroid glands”, explains the doctor.
See 6 examples of diseases pointed out by Christiane in which this type of specialist can help you.
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1. Diabetes mellitus
Diabetes is a disease caused by impaired insulin production., hormone produced by the pancreas, with the function of maintaining metabolism through glucose control. It can be type 1 (where there is a reduction or lack of insulin production) or type 2 (where the body develops resistance to the insulin produced).
This is a silent disease and presents risks to the patient’s life if not treated. Therefore, she needs frequent follow-up with several specialists, especially the nutritionist and the endocrinologist.
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2. Morbid obesity
Obesity is a health problem with serious but often underestimated consequences. It is characterized by exacerbated overweight, in which the body mass index (BMI) is above 40, what is also called grade 3 obesity. It can be considered a comorbidity, that is, a pathology that causes several other diseases. These include high blood pressure and diabetes.
In the endocrinologist’s office, morbid obesity can be investigated more intensely, observing if there is any hormonal dysfunction associated with weight gain and how this can contribute to the treatment. It is also the role of the specialist to assess the possibility and need for bariatric surgery.
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3. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
It is very common for diseases related to the female reproductive system to be dealt with by a gynecologist – and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is no different. Caused by a series of microcysts in the ovaries, this health problem can cause menstrual cycle dysregulation, difficulties in getting pregnant, weight gain, among other symptoms.
What a lot of people don’t know is that an endocrinologist’s follow-up can make all the difference in PCOS treatment. That’s because this professional is able to monitor a series of metabolic dysfunctions, even being important to discover the origin of the problem. The endocrinologist can also recommend the use of medications and recommend a change in habits that will help the patient to live well with the problem.
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4. Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
Thyroid dysfunctions are among the most frequent cases in endocrinology offices. The thyroid is the gland that controls hormones responsible for the functioning of the metabolism in its entirety. This disorder can manifest with excess production of hormones (hyperthyroidism) or reduced hormone production (hypothyroidism).
In hyperthyroidism, weight loss, tachycardia, sweating, and restlessness are common. Already in hypothyroidism, the symptoms presented are: excessive fatigue, weight gain and hair loss. The endocrinologist observes these changes and helps not only to diagnose but also to treat the disease.
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5. Dyslipidemia (high cholesterol)
High cholesterol is a silent health problem that affects many people. Dyslipidemia is also a comorbidity and is commonly associated with cardiovascular diseases, presenting potential risks for acute problems such as acute myocardial infarction.
In addition to observing blood cholesterol levels, the endocrinologist is also responsible for determining the best form of treatment, which habits need to be reviewed and, if necessary, which medications should be included in the patient’s routine, in addition to an adequate diet.
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6. Early puberty
Everyone goes through puberty, where the body moves from childhood to adulthood. It is common from 13 to 14 years old, but when the body gives signs between 8 and 9 years old, this disturbance it’s called precocious puberty. Signs such as height, growth of pubic hair, underarm odor, menarche (first menstruation) or testicular enlargement can reveal the picture.
The endocrinologist can assess the issue and possible causes for the problem, in addition to indicating the best treatment – which, often, can be just frequent monitoring and a more accurate clinical investigation.
When to look for an endocrinologist?
It’s possible that you need an appointment with an endocrinologist and don’t even know it. Dr. Christiane gives some tips on when look for this specialist:
- – unexplained changes in weight;
- – excessive fatigue;
- – symptoms of diabetes, such as excessive thirst and frequent urination;
- – unexplained weight gain or loss;
- – very cold or excessive sweating;
- – menstrual irregularities,
- – infertility;
- – problems related to puberty;
- – short stature in children;
- – low libido;
- – menopause
Stay tuned for the symptoms your body gives and include this professional on your check-up list.
The post Care for Life.
Source: cuidadospelavida.com.br
