The endocrine system is a complex group of glands. Glands are organs that make hormones. And hormones are substances that help in controlling the activities in the body. Hormones control reproduction, metabolism, growth and development. They also control our responses to the surroundings, and help provide an adequate amount of energy and nutrition for the bodily functions. The endocrine glands in our body are- the thyroid, parathyroid, pancreas, ovaries, testes, adrenal, pituitary and hypothalamus.

Common endocrine diseases and disorders

Endocrine diseases and disorders may be grouped into several different types. Some endocrinologists focus on one or two types, such as diabetes, paediatric disorders, thyroid, or reproductive and menstrual disorders. Others work in all areas of endocrinology. The major areas of endocrinology are described below.

Diabetes

Recent studies have found that controlling blood sugar helps check severe problems that can result out of diabetes. These include problems with the eyes, kidneys and nerves, which can lead to blindness, dialysis, or amputation. Endocrinologists treat diabetes with diet and medications, including insulin. They also work closely with patients to control blood sugar and monitor them so they can prevent health problems.

Thyroid

Patients with thyroid disorders have problems with their energy levels. Their problems may include unstable muscle strength, emotions, weight control, and tolerating heat or cold. Endocrinologists treat patients with hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid hormone) or hypothyroidism (too little thyroid hormone). They assist such patients to reach a hormone balance by replacing or blocking the thyroid hormone. Some endocrinologists may also manage patients with thyroid growths or thyroid cancer, and enlarged thyroid glands.

Bone

Osteomalacia (rickets), that causes bones to soften, and osteoporosis are bone diseases that endocrinologists diagnose and treat. Osteoporosis weakens your skeleton. Certain hormones shield the bone tissue. When hormone levels are abnormal, bones can lose calcium and therefore, weaken. Menopause, loss of testicle function, and aging may put you at risk for bone disorders. Endocrinologists also treat other disorders that can affect the skeletal system, such as too much parathyroid hormone and long term use of steroids like prednisone.

Reproduction/Infertility

Endocrinologists diagnose and treat hormone imbalances that cause infertility, and also assess and treat patients with reproductive problems. They work with patients who need hormone replacement. Problems that they treat include menopause symptoms, irregular periods, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premenstrual syndrome, and impotence.

Obesity and Overweight

Sometimes metabolic and hormonal problems may lead to overweight or obesity. Obesity is having too much body fat. Thyroid, adrenal, ovarian, and pituitary disorders may lead to obesity. Endocrinologists identify factors linked with obesity, such as insulin resistance and genetic problems.

Pituitary Gland

The pituitary is often called the master gland since it controls the other glands. The pituitary produces several important hormones. Over - or under - production of pituitary hormones can lead to infertility, menstrual disorders, growth disorders (acromegaly or short stature) and too much cortisol production (Cushing's syndrome). Endocrinologists control these conditions with medications and refer patients who need surgery.

Children and adults can develop growth disorders due to growth hormone imbalances. Paediatric endocrinologists treat children who suffer from endocrine problems that cause short physique and other growth disorders. Adults with growth hormone deficiency can experience emotional distress and fatigue.

Hypertension

Hypertension is high blood pressure, and it is a risk factor for developing heart diseases. Some people have hypertension because of too much aldosterone, a hormone produced in the adrenal glands. Conditions such as the metabolic syndrome or a rare adrenal growth called a pheochromocytoma also may cause hypertension. These conditions can be treated successfully.

Lipid Disorders

Patients with lipid disorders have trouble maintaining normal levels of body fats. Hyperlipidemia is one of the most common lipid disorders - high levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and/or triglycerides in the blood. High levels of these fats are linked to heart (coronary) disease, strokes, and peripheral vascular diseases (problems with circulation in the legs). Endocrinologists detect factors that may be related to lipid disorders, such as hypothyroidism, drug use (steroids), genetic or metabolic conditions. Lipid disorders in certain conditions may require special management, including the metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and obesity.

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