An endocrinologist is a medical specialist who treats people with a range of conditions that are caused by problems with hormones, such as diabetes, menopause and thyroid problems.
Do I need a referral to be seen by an endocrinologist?
When you think something’s wrong, it can be your first instinct to book an appointment with a specialist. And Atlantic Endocrinology & Diabetes Center when it comes to matters of the endocrine system, you’re going to want those resolved sooner rather than later.
Many disorders associated with the endocrine system involve other systems in your body.
In addition to diabetes and thyroid problems, endocrinologists are specially trained to diagnose and treat conditions such as metabolic disorders, hypertension, osteoporosis and the over or underproduction of hormones.
Having a more in-depth knowledge of the pathophysiology and treatment modalities, endocrinologists can optimize patient outcomes, as they are well versed in the most recent clinical data and medication options.
A treatment schedule and regular follow-ups are necessary to efficiently monitor blood work, physical changes, the effects of the medications and evaluate the risks for potential adverse side effects.
Additionally, an endocrinologist is able to offer lifestyle recommendations which result in a more balanced and enhanced quality of life.
Hormones are part of the endocrine system, a series of glands that produce and secrete hormones that control many different bodily functions.
The endocrine system includes:
- the pituitary gland
- the thyroid gland
- the parathyroid gland
- the adrenal glands
- the pancreas
- ovaries and testes
Endocrinologists can treat conditions such as:
- diabetes
- metabolic disorders
- osteoporosis
- menopause
- thyroid problems
- cancers of the endocrine glands
- Infertility
What Can These Specialists Do For You?
The real question is, can an endocrinologist help with weight loss? And the answer is yes. Endocrinologists offer a wide variety of treatments depending on the issue at hand.
Oftentimes hormone treatments will be needed, although the regularity and form of treatment will change from one problem to the next.
Here are a few of the ways that they can help to treat endocrine problems:
- Daily hormone pills
- Hormone injections
- Insulin for diabetes
- Personalized weight loss programs
- Referrals to an endocrine surgeon
Generally, surgery is only needed in more extreme cases in which glands contain growths or where their swelling begins to cause breathing issues.
Most hormone problems can be treated with the help of daily medications or regular shots.
Is an endocrinologist covered by insurance?
Endocrinologist services may be partly or fully covered by your insurance.
Endocrinologist fees are covered by some private health funds, but the amount will depend on your insurance policy.
Why would my doctor refer me to an endocrinologist?
An endocrinologist can diagnose and treat hormone problems and the complications that arise from them.
Hormones regulate metabolism, respiration, growth, reproduction, sensory perception, and movement. Hormone imbalances are the underlying reason for a wide range of medical conditions.
Where do Endocrinologists Work?
If you feel that you need to see an endocrinologist, then you may be wondering where you can find one and where you have to go to be seen by one.
An endocrinologist can work in a variety of different locations, but there are three that are most commonly found:
- Private medical practices such as Balance My Hormones
- A medical group with other kinds of doctors
- Hospitals with an endocrinologist as staff or consultants
You can find more information about endocrinologists at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists.
In addition, you can ask your primary care doctor for a referral to an endocrinologist that can help you with any issues that you are currently experiencing.
There are other endocrinologists out there that don’t currently work with patients. These professionals typically exist in an academic setting such as medical schools and universities.
When should an endocrinologist be referred to as a diabetic?
Your regular doctor can treat diabetes, but they might refer you to an endocrinologist when: You’re brand new to diabetes and need to learn how to manage it.
They don’t have a lot of experience treating diabetes. You take a lot of shots or use an insulin pump.
What does an endocrinologist do for thyroid?
Thyroidologists are endocrinologists who specifically study, diagnose, manage and treat the thyroid gland.
Should type 2 diabetics see an endocrinologist?
While some people depend on their family physician to manage their Type 2 diabetes, it is often beneficial to see an Endocrinologist.
What is the best way to diagnose an endocrine disorder?
Blood and urine tests to check your hormone levels can help your doctors determine if you have an endocrine disorder.
Imaging tests may be done to help locate or pinpoint a nodule or tumor. Treatment of endocrine disorders can be complicated, as a change in one hormone level can throw off another.
By seeing an endocrinologist, patients may avoid spending thousands of dollars in doctor visits and hospitalizations.
There is no doubt that if mismanaged or left untreated, endocrine disorders can cause many problems such as chronic fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, depression, weight changes and generalized aches and pains.
There is no reason that anyone should suffer from these or any other problems associated with the endocrine system.
If you are ready to take charge of your health and life, you owe it to yourself to ask your family doctor about an endocrinology referral.
Other Health Problems for Endocrinologists
Though low testosterone and diabetes are two of the most high-profile medical conditions that require the expertise of an endocrinologist, there are certainly others.
These include low estrogen in women and other issues that relate to hormones. Any medical condition that is being brought on by out-of-balance hormones can be addressed by seeing an endocrinologist to give you guidance on treatments.
Seeing an endocrinologist is as simple as speaking to your family doctor about a referral.
Generally, if there is an issue, they will be happy to set you up with someone in the area.
However, you can also call and schedule a consultation directly if you feel that a second opinion is needed or do not have a regular physician. Problems within the endocrine system are very common, and you can feel safe and comfortable asking for help.