Endocrinologists are internal medicine physicians who specialize in disorders related to hormones and metabolic processes. Commonly, they deal with diabetes and thyroid issues, but they also understand and treat a whole host of other problems related to how the body regulates itself.
Here’s a comprehensive review on thyroid conditions, diabetes, osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, and endocrine diseases, which are at the forefront of public consciousness, and where you can go for effective management of hormone-related disorders in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, FL.
Diabetes
Diabetes impacts about one out of every 10 Americans, affecting the body’s ability to process nutrients and convert them to usable energy. Five of these people are unaware they are diabetic because symptoms can be relatively silent early on in the condition.
Diabetes falls into two basic categories: type 1, in which the body stops producing the pancreatic hormone insulin, and type 2, in which the body does not properly use the insulin produced. Both forms of this disease can produce life-limiting damage to vital organs, mood, the ability to heal, circulation, and more.
Endocrinologists can diagnose and manage this chronic condition effectively. They help people use their medications properly, adjust their eating and exercise habits, and monitor them for serious complications, such as nerve pain, impaired peripheral circulation, cardiovascular disease, and others, limiting their day to day function and life span.
Hyperthyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
The thyroid is an H-shaped endocrine gland located at the base of the throat just above the breast bone. It secretes T4 and T3 hormones, which regulate energy levels, sleep, sexual function and fertility, mood, body temperature, digestion, weight, and more.
When the thyroid secretes too much T4 and T3, the person is said to have hyperthyroidism. When hormone levels are too low, the diagnosis is hypothyroidism. Symptoms can include fatigue, changes in body weight, low libido, infertility, mood disorders, and more.
Medication, surgical removal of the thyroid, and radiation therapy are common interventions for this condition. People with thyroid removed must use replacement thyroxine for the rest of their lives.
Osteoporosis
Most commonly seen in post-menopausal women, osteoporosis is a bone-thinning condition that results from a steep drop in the female hormone estrogen. The strength and mineral composition of the skeleton diminishes, particularly in the spine and pelvic area. Prolonged inactivity, heredity, and lack of protein, calcium, and Vitamin D in the diet lead to osteoporosis.
Physical therapy, vitamin and mineral supplements, and some pharmaceuticals help slow the progression of thisdisease and rebuild bone mass and strength.
Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic syndrome is characterized by the body’s resistance to its own insulin.It impacts (mostly) women with obesity, irregular menses, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and more. Complications can include serious acute conditions, such as heart attack and stroke.
Endocrinologists carefully analyze a patient’s blood work, family history, medical history, and lifestyle factors to determine a proper treatment plan. A healthy lifestyle, including exercise and a nutritious diet, is fundamental to controlling this prevalent endocrine problem.
Exceptional Endocrinology Care in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, FL
If you are looking for an endocrinologist near you, look no further than Intercoastal Medical Group. Our multi-specialty practice is home to a team of highly trained and qualified healthcare providers. We provide compassionate and competent care tailored to your needs.
To know more, call us today at (941) 379-1777 for our Beneva Professional Center location and (941) 538-0077 for our Lakewood Ranch II office. You can also fill out our convenient online appointment request form to arrange your consultation with one of our endocrinologists.
