endocrinologist

A endocrinologist specializes in the hormonal system of the human body, the so-called endocrinium. The main focus is on the so-called endocrine glands, which release hormones into the blood. A large number of diseases are hormonally influenced or caused and therefore require the consultation of an endocrinologist.

What is an endocrinologist?

A endocrinologist After completing his regular medical studies and licensing as a doctor, he also completed training as a specialist in internal medicine with a specialization in endocrinology. This further training takes a total of about six years. Endocrinologists are therefore highly specialized specialists in the human hormonal system.

They work closely with doctors from other disciplines - endocrinological expertise can be required in gynecology, diabetology, urology, pediatrics and many other areas.

Endocrinologists work both in hospitals and as general practitioners in independent practices, often in group practices with doctors from related specialties.

Treatments

The craft of Endocrinologist includes all diseases that are caused by disorders of the hormonal balance. Hormones are messenger substances that are produced by certain organs in our body and released into the body through the bloodstream. To a large extent, they enable the organs to communicate with one another.

Together with the nervous system, hormones control vital mechanisms in the human body - from growth and physical development to metabolism, sexuality and psyche. The endocrinium also provides important services in adapting to environmental influences and stresses.

From an endocrinological point of view, hormones are divided according to the glands that make them. First and foremost, the thyroid, pancreas, adrenal glands, but also the testes and ovaries and, last but not least, the pituitary gland (pituitary gland) should be mentioned here.

For example, the pancreas produces the hormone insulin; Disorders in the production and metabolism of insulin can lead to diabetes mellitus, the most common endocrinological disease of all.

Overall, the endocrinium is a highly complex and very elementary system; Disorders can manifest themselves in a variety of diseases. From the aforementioned diabetes to osteoporosis, menopausal symptoms, the unfulfilled desire to have children, to failure to thrive and growth in children, disorders of emotional experience or a lack of resilience.

In these cases, referrals are often made from the family doctor, gynecologist or pediatrician to the endocrinologist.

Diagnosis & examination methods

Endocrinological diseases occur when too many or too few hormones are produced, cannot be metabolized properly, or the hormone-producing organs become ill.

The first examination method used in endocrinological practice is usually to examine the laboratory values ​​of the patient's blood or urine. On this basis, the hormone levels in the body can be determined and irregularities can be detected. If diseases of the endocrine glands are suspected, these are examined further, for example by ultrasound, scintigraphy, computed tomography or by punctures and cytological examinations.

These irregularities in the hormonal balance can often be compensated for by the targeted administration of hormones or other drugs. In some cases, this requires a step-by-step adjustment to the individually optimal dosage and close monitoring by the treating endocrinologist.

Changes in diet and lifestyle may also be necessary - for example in the case of diabetes mellitus or thyroid diseases, in which those affected are often sensitive to environmental influences. One of the tasks of the endocrinologist is to give his patients comprehensive advice and, if necessary, to refer them to qualified nutrition experts.

If operations on the hormone-producing glands are necessary, for example due to tumors or cysts, an endocrinological surgeon who specializes in operations on the corresponding organs is consulted.

What should the patient pay attention to?

Due to the wide and complex spectrum that endocrinology encompasses, it can make sense for patients to get a Endocrinologist to look for someone who specializes in your problem.

For example, some specialists offer a range of treatments that focus on diabetology, thyroid diseases or reproductive medicine and offer optimal health care.

In general, however, it can be said that the endocrinologist has enjoyed a very comprehensive and highly specialized training and is competent in all these areas.