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Endocrinology is not a topic that makes its way into our daily conversation with others. So naturally, many are still unfamiliar with what an endocrinologist does and how this specialist can help them or their loved ones.
The work done by an endocrinologist serves as the basis for ongoing research in the treatment of hormonal imbalances, and many endocrinologists work exclusively as research physicians. However, many endocrinologists are physicians who see patients.
What is Endocrinology?
Endocrinology is a branch of medicine that deals with the endocrine system, which concerns hormones. Glands are part of the endocrine system and produce hormones essential to your body’s proper functioning, including metabolism, respiration, growth, movement, and reproduction. It is important that your hormones are balanced in order for you to function well. Treatment usually focuses on the restoration of this balance.
What Can an Endocrinologist Treat?
An endocrinologist is an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of hormonal issues, and can treat diseases that affect the hormone-producing glands such as the pancreas, which produces insulin; the thyroid, which produces thyroid hormones responsible for energy, metabolism, and brain growth and development; the pituitary gland, which is a master gland that produces many hormones; the adrenal glands, which produce hormones that control metabolism and blood pressure; the ovaries, which release eggs; testes, which release sperm; and the pineal gland, which produces hormones related to sleep.
An endocrinologist can spot hard-to-detect symptoms of an endocrine disorder that causes a decrease or increase in the production of certain hormones. An endocrinologist also helps diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases such as diabetes (type 1 and type 2), thyroid disorders, an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), goiter, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), infertility, cancers of the endocrine glands, Addison’s disease, Cushing’s syndrome, gigantism, and dwarfism.
Why See an Endocrinologist?
Hormonal imbalances can contribute to the development of certain diseases and is often the underlying reason for a variety of medical conditions. For instance, problems with the pancreas can affect insulin production. Patients with type 1 diabetes do not secrete insulin, which is key to the breakdown of food into glucose for energy. An underactive thyroid can slow the body’s functions and cause weight gain due to a sluggish metabolism. Women who do not produce enough sex hormones may have a condition called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOD), which can affect fertility.
Many health conditions can arise from having hormonal imbalances. You could have a hormonal problem if you have problems with weight, temperature sensitivity, energy, sleep, thinning hair, and anxiety and depression.
Endocrinologist in Wooster, OH
The endocrinologist at Bloomington Endocrinology, Dr. Toni King, routinely helps patients with endocrine system-related problems and the restoration of hormones to normal levels to benefit their overall health. Dr. King helps patients with diabetes, osteoporosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and thyroid dysfunction.
Bloomington Endocrinology is part of the Wooster Community Hospital (WCH) Health system where superior and patient-centric medical care is the standard. To schedule an appointment with Dr. King, call (330) 263-8470 or use our online form.
