The endocrine system comprises a network of glands that produce hormones for body function. Endocrine disorders are complex and require an accurate diagnosis of symptoms to formulate an effective treatment plan. The team of endocrinology specialists at Reading Cardiology Associate are experts at diagnosing and individualizing your treatment plan for any endocrine condition. To schedule a comprehensive evaluation, contact our office or request an appointment online today.
What Is Endocrinology?
Endocrinology is a medical branch that studies hormones, organs, and endocrine glands. It manages the endocrine system, diseases connected to it, and hormone control. Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through various organs in the body. They are critical to everyday survival, and they help body parts communicate with each other. They control functions such as:
- Temperature control
- Growth
- Sleep
- Sexual function and development
- Reproduction
- Metabolism
- Stress and mood
- Lactation
- Movement
- Digestion
- Excretion
- Movement
- Sensory perception
- Regulation of heart rate and blood pressure
The endocrine system is made up of glands in the body, including:
- Thyroid gland
- Adrenal glands
- Pituitary gland
- Adrenal gland
- Pancreas
What Is an Endocrinologist?
An endocrinologist is a healthcare provider specialising in diagnosing and treating various hormone-related conditions. They also develop management and treatment plans.
The endocrinologists at Reading Cardiology Associates effectively treat endocrine disorders, hormonal imbalances and restore and improve body functions.
What Conditions Are Treated by Endocrinology?
Endocrinologists treat a wide range of conditions. At Reading Cardiology Associates, experienced endocrinologists treat disorders affecting the endocrine system. These disorders include:
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Infertility
- Growth hormone deficiencies
- Osteoporosis
- Cholesterol problems
- Pituitary diseases
- Adrenal insufficiency
- Cushing’s syndrome
- Addison’s disease
- Polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD)
- Addison’s disease
- Gigantism
- Irregular periods
- Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism
- Erectile dysfunction
Diabetes is the most common endocrine disorder in the United States. It is a chronic health condition that causes high blood sugar levels due to a lack of insulin (a hormone produced by your pancreas). Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease and conditions contributing to heart diseases such as high cholesterol and hypertension.
What Can I Expect During an Endocrinology Consultation?
During your consultation at Reading Cardiology Associates, expect a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis using the latest diagnostic tools.
Your healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your symptoms and ask for information regarding:
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Any medication you might be taking
- Supplement use
- Diet, lifestyle habits, and exercise
- Family history of hormonal problems
- Check your heart rate, blood pressure, skin, hair, and teeth
The endocrinologist will use different diagnostic tools such as ultrasound, X-rays, and CT (computerized tomography) scans. You may also require testing like blood tests, liver tests, cortisol levels, testosterone levels, or urine sugar tests.
The information obtained during your consultation will help your healthcare provider to develop a customized treatment plan to balance hormones, alleviate symptoms and improve overall body health. Follow up visit may be necessary to monitor your progress and hormonal levels and make any changes to your treatment or medications if necessary.
Why Should I See an Endocrinologist?
Your primary care provider will refer you to an endocrinologist in an outpatient setting. If there are concerns about an underlying hormonal disorder, an endocrinologist may be called in for an inpatient visit.
You may also be referred to an endocrinologist by your healthcare provider who has diagnosed you with an endocrine condition or disorder since most conditions are chronic or long-term. This is because an endocrinologist is an expert in endocrine disorders and will help you manage and treat your condition. Additionally, your healthcare provider will refer you to an endocrinologist if they are concerned about some of the following conditions
- Osteoporosis
- Low testosterone
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
- Thyroid disorders
- Endocrine Gland Cancer
- Difficulty Managing Diabetes with Standard Treatments
What Happens When the Endocrine System Does Not Work?
Excess or too few hormones may impact hormone release and function. A hormonal imbalance may cause the body system not to function correctly. The body typically corrects these imbalances.
The body also has a natural mechanism that monitors and responds to changes in hormonal levels to restore balance and normalise them. However, the system may encounter a problem that the body cannot fix itself. If this happens, your primary health care provider will refer you to an endocrinologist. They are specialists and experts in treating chronic and complicated conditions involving body systems.
Schedule your endocrinology evaluation and treatment with Reading Cardiology Associates. Our experienced doctors provide compassionate, comprehensive, expert care to manage and treat any endocrine condition you may have. Contact us today or schedule an appointment online.