Endocrinologists are specialized doctors who diagnose and treat imbalances caused by endocrine system dysfunction. If a healthcare provider diagnoses a hormone-related issue, they may refer a patient to an endocrinologist. They provide therapies to restore the body’s hormonal balance. Endocrinologists are experts because they have up-to-date knowledge of the treatment of endocrine disorders. Therefore, it is vital to see a specialist as soon as one notices any issues related to the endocrine system.

What they do
Endocrinologists can assist in diagnosing, managing, and treating many endocrine conditions. Some specialize in various endocrine disorders, while others specialize in a single area. This is why an endocrinologist’s consultation is essential for hormonal conditions. One must visit a specialist if they have any of the following diseases.

• Diabetes
  Endocrinologists specialize in the treatment of different kinds of diabetes. The condition results when the pancreas no longer produces insulin or the cells become resistant to hormone intake. Therefore, an endocrinologist will help control diabetes and prevent complications.
• Thyroid disease
  Thyroid diseases result from an endocrine disorder; a patient with a thyroid disorder may be referred to an endocrinologist. Through treatment, the doctor can help restore or maintain the proper functioning of the endocrine glands.
• Endocrine oncology
  Cancer can develop in any endocrine gland, such as the pancreas, thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal glands. An endocrinologist specializing in tumors affecting the endocrine system manages such conditions.
• Infertility
  Endocrine disorders like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism often cause infertility. Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) helps reproductive endocrinologists manage fertility issues.
• Osteoporosis
  Age-related hormonal changes in women can contribute to osteoporosis. The condition leads to bone fragility and can increase the risk of fractures. If one is at risk of osteoporosis, they must talk to an endocrinologist who can help prevent or manage the condition.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  Women with PCOS have increased facial hair, irregular menstrual periods, and other symptoms that, when left untreated, can lead to infertility. An endocrinologist can help one manage these health concerns.
• Adrenal gland abnormalities
  The adrenal glands are situated atop each kidney. These produce hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone, which are essential for many vital body functions. Adrenal insufficiency, Cushing syndrome, and hyperaldosteronism are disorders of the adrenal gland, and an endocrinologist treats them.
• Hypercalcemia
  Hypercalcemia is the presence of excessive amounts of calcium in the blood. The high levels are caused by three hormones: parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, and calcitonin. An endocrinologist can help manage hypercalcemia.

Tips to choose the right endocrinologist
Wondering where to find one? One can look for an endocrinologist in any of the following places:

• Hospitals
• Visit the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists website
• Ask family or friends if they know any endocrinologists
• Get a list of in-network endocrinologists from an insurance provider

When to see an endocrinologist
Patients experiencing any of the symptoms given below must consult a primary health provider, who will determine whether one needs to see an endocrinologist.

• Vision problems
  Those with eye problems, such as blurry vision or droopy eyelids, will be referred to an endocrinologist.
• Rapid fluctuations in weight
  Rapid fluctuations in weight may indicate tumor growth in the endocrine system.
• Changes in blood sugar levels
  If one has diabetes and there are rapid changes in blood sugar levels, they must make an appointment with an endocrinologist.
• Mood swings
  Patients experiencing any of the symptoms listed below must consult a primary health provider, who will determine whether they need to see an endocrinologist.
• Sexual problems
  Those with low libido or erectile dysfunction must visit a specialist.
• Irregular periods
  Women with irregular periods or abnormal bleeding should consult an endocrinologist.

Endocrinology treatment and cost
The treatment depends on the type of endocrine disorder one has. The therapies are usually aimed at rebalancing the hormones and treating symptoms. Endocrine surgery focuses on conditions that affect the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands. This operation is done to remove a tumor on a gland that is affecting hormone production. An endocrine surgeon may perform different procedures, like the following:

• Adrenalectomy
  This operation involves the removal of either one or both adrenal glands.
• Parathyroidectomy
  The removal of one or more of the four parathyroid glands is done in this surgical procedure.
• Thyroidectomy
  In this procedure, the entire thyroid gland, or one lobe, is removed.
• Pancreatectomy
  This surgery involves the removal of part or all of the pancreas.

The cost of consultation and therapy largely varies depending on various factors, including the type of treatment, the hospital’s location, the patient’s insurance plan, etc. The specific health insurance coverage greatly determines the amount one must pay. Depending on the diagnosis, a patient may need to see an endocrinologist every three to six months for routine check-ups.

Consult with an endocrinologist if you experience any hormone or endocrine gland-related health issues and get treated.