Endocrinology is the branch of medicine that deals with the endocrine system: the glands that produce hormones, the hormones themselves, and the diseases that arise when this system does not work properly. Diabetes and goitre are the conditions most people have heard of, and they are among the most common.
Signs that can point to a hormone problem
Many signs of endocrine disease are vague:
- weakness and tiredness
- weight gain, or weight loss without trying
- changes in the skin
- hair loss and brittle nails
- irregular periods
People sometimes put these down to stress, a busy life or poor diet for years. If they persist, an examination is worth it: finding the cause early can improve quality of life and help prevent complications.
When to see an endocrinologist
If you already have an endocrine condition. Diabetes, thyroid disease, pituitary and adrenal disorders usually need regular follow-up. Most do not go away after a short course of tablets or a few weeks of diet, and they need ongoing work from both the patient and the doctor. Assessment typically includes hormone tests and, where needed, ultrasound.
If diabetes runs in your family. Everyone should have their blood sugar checked from time to time. With a family history, you may also need tests for early disorders of carbohydrate metabolism. An endocrinologist can advise which tests suit you.
If you cannot lose weight. Before trying one diet after another, it makes sense to rule out a hormonal cause. Once that is clear, an endocrinologist and a dietitian can help you plan a realistic approach.
If you are planning a pregnancy or are pregnant. Checking thyroid function and blood sugar is part of standard care in pregnancy. If a problem is found, treatment can be adjusted early, which matters for both mother and baby.
How MedAssist helps
MedAssist can arrange an endocrinology assessment at a partner hospital, including the tests the doctor requests, and organise your travel and stay. The endocrinologist interprets the results and decides on treatment.