There are a variety of different doctors in the Tampa area that can help the body run properly. Endocrinologists specialize in hormones and metabolism. Without a functional metabolism, the body cannot process food and energy in the correct way. By diagnosing conditions that affect the thyroid, adrenals, blood pressure, metabolism, and hormones, endocrinologists can help treat issues early before they become worse.
What Does An Endocrinologist Do?
This particular type of doctor is trained to focus on a number of different conditions ranging from a person’s stress response to their metabolism. While there are many symptoms that may appear unrelated, their treatment can revolve around a similar condition.
To become an endocrinologist, one must obtain a certification exam in addition to their medical degree. After finishing medical school they will usually work in a hospital or clinical setting for three years. The hands-on experience is necessary before they start specifically training in endocrinology for another two to three years. Because of this rigorous program, those who begin private practice are often already well-educated in their field.
What Types of Conditions Do Endocrinologists Treat?
Since there are a number of reasons to make an endocrinology appointment, it’s helpful to know which conditions are commonly diagnosed.
Hormone-related diseases are primarily treated through endocrinology. Issues surrounding metabolism, respiration, reproduction and even energy levels can all be related to specific hormones in the body.
Hyperthyroidism is one common condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormone. Unexplained weight loss, an elevated heart rate, and anxiety are all symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Generally, the underlying cause of this particular thyroid problem is Grave’s disease, an autoimmune disease that can impact one’s quality of life.
Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough of the thyroid hormone. These symptoms are almost directly opposite of hyperthyroidism. Weight gain, depression, and dry skin are all signs that there is a deficiency of the thyroid hormone. This, too, can be caused by an underlying autoimmune disease.
Diabetes is commonly diagnosed by an endocrinologist. Issues with weight gain and metabolism are frequently handled in this department. By running hemoglobin A1C readings and other blood tests, these doctors can check to make sure are healthy. Typically an endocrinologist can teach you about insulin levels and provide the proper treatment necessary to have a healthy life.
Multiple endocrine neoplasia is a rare genetic condition that is only passed on through family members who also have the disorder. Although this condition is scarce, multiple endocrine neoplasia can cause tumors that can lead to an imbalance of hormones.
Hypopituitarism happens when the pituitary gland is not able to release enough hormones to properly function over time. Women can stop having their periods with this particular condition. Although there may be many different reasons for the occurrence of hypopituitarism, the diagnosis can be found by visiting an endocrinologist.
Although symptoms for these conditions may seem vague at first, they should not be ignored. By visiting the right doctor, they can obtain a correct medical history and diagnosis so that proper treatment can be started as soon as possible.
What Is the First Appointment Like?
Visiting a new doctor can be nerve-racking. If you haven’t seen a medical professional in a long period of time, you may feel apprehensive about going. By updating your medical history and providing accurate health insurance, a specialized doctor in the field of endocrinology can help assess where you are and how your health has changed over time.
Depending on the exact reason you are seeing an endocrinologist, the questions asked in a first appointment may vary. Many people book an appointment when they notice an extreme difference in their energy levels or weight. With thyroid conditions, people can lose or gain a significant amount of weight in a very short period of time. Although some may believe it is water weight or that it will somehow disappear on its own, weight fluctuations caused by thyroid conditions usually require medication. Before your first appointment, try to find out as much about your family history as possible. If you are suffering from a thyroid condition, other family members may have dealt with the same problem.
Thyroid, diabetes and hormonal conditions often run in both nuclear or extended families. Understanding if anyone related to you has had a prior problem with their metabolism or hormones can be incredibly valuable for a doctor to know. If you do not know your family’s medical history, this is not detrimental to the appointment, but it could save you extra testing or exams.
Common questions asked in a first appointment usually pertain to the patient’s past health and medical history. Be sure to tell your doctor if you’ve had prior thyroid surgery or cancer treatment that could have potentially exposed your thyroid to radiation. If there are other health-related conditions that do not pertain to the thyroid, be sure to mention it. Just because you may not see the connection doesn’t mean there isn’t one.
Gastrointestinal issues are also an important topic to discuss. While some people shy away from this type of health concern, it is imperative when prescribing the right amount of medication. Problems with the intestines can inadvertently impact how much medicine is in the body and can do significant harm if they are not correctly regulated.
Conclusion
Endocrinology is an extremely important specialty in the medical profession. By effectively regulating the body’s hormone production, energy levels, mood, and metabolism can all properly function. Although the symptoms surrounding hormonal issues may at times seem vague, they can greatly impact our ability to live a happy life. Seeing an endocrinologist can be an easy solution to fix a difficult problem.
