Endocrinology Services Specialist

What is endocrinology?

Endocrinology is a branch of medicine used to diagnose, treat, and prevent disorders of the endocrine system. 

The endocrine system is a series of glands throughout your body that produces hormones for a variety of bodily functions, including appetite, metabolism, heart rate, and libido. Two of the most important endocrine glands in your body are the thyroid and adrenal glands.

What conditions does endocrinology treat?

At Texas Primary & Pediatric Care, the team uses endocrinology to treat various conditions, including:

Diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus refers to a group of chronic disorders that cause high blood sugar. Everyone needs some blood sugar to survive, but too much blood sugar increases your risk of serious health problems, including heart attack or stroke.

The team at Texas Primary & Pediatric Care treats all types of diabetes, including Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, and prediabetes. 

Treatment for diabetes typically involves a combination of healthy lifestyle changes and insulin therapy. Insulin is a hormone responsible for keeping your blood sugar levels healthy. You might also benefit from an insulin pump or continuous glucose monitoring (CGM).

Thyroid disorders

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland positioned directly beneath your Adam’s apple. It produces and releases hormones responsible for various bodily functions, including your heart and respiratory rate, brain development, and bone maintenance. 

Your thyroid is incredibly hard working, but it’s also susceptible to certain disorders, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and goiters.

Metabolism-related obesity

Metabolism refers to a complex chemical process that converts the food you eat into energy. As you get older, your metabolism can speed up or slow down. Changes in your metabolism can result in various side effects, one of the most common being weight gain.

 If you’re overweight and unable to shed pounds through diet and exercise, it may be due to an underlying metabolic disorder. Endocrinology can pinpoint the underlying cause and develop a care plan to help you lose weight.

Adrenal disorders

The adrenal glands sit on top of each kidney and produce sex hormones and cortisol. If you have an adrenal gland disorder, your adrenal glands produce too much or not enough hormones. Some of the most common adrenal disorders the team treats include adrenal nodules and adrenal insufficiency.

Cushing’s disease

Cushing’s disease occurs when your body makes too much cortisol, the “fight-or-flight” hormone. When left untreated, Cushing’s disease results in weight gain, headaches, increased thirst, and depression.

Treatment for Cushing’s disease typically involves taking medication that lowers the levels of cortisol throughout your body.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a serious condition that causes your bones to become frail and incredibly delicate. Over time, this increases your risk of a fracture, even from regular occurrences like coughing or bending over. Anyone can develop osteoporosis, but it’s especially common in women who are post-menopausal.

Treatment for osteoporosis often includes hormone therapy or prescription medications like bisphosphonates.

Can I benefit from endocrinology?

Only a qualified medical professional can determine if you’ll benefit from endocrinology. If you regularly experience symptoms associated with endocrine disorders, it’s worth making an appointment. Common symptoms include:

• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Excessive thirst
• Vision changes
• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain

Following a comprehensive physical, a review of your medical history, and a series of lab tests, your provider can develop a custom care plan that aligns with your needs.

To learn more about endocrinology, schedule an appointment at Texas Primary & Pediatric Care. Book a consultation online, or call the office to speak with a friendly staff member today.