The endocrine system is a complex network of tissues that works to release hormones into your blood. These glands and organs also monitor the levels of hormones present throughout your body. These hormones affect different aspects, including metabolism, growth, development, and more.
When these tissues do not function properly, this can trigger responses and changes in your body. Having endocrine disorders due to hormonal imbalances can impact your health in many ways.
Causes of Endocrine Disorders
Various reasons can lead to the development of an endocrine disorder. A proper diagnosis from your healthcare provider can help identify the underlying cause of any possible endocrine disorders.
Here are some potential causes of endocrine disorders:
- Genetics – People who have a history of endocrine disorders in their family are more likely to develop endocrine disorders. Certain genetic mutations can also lead to the development of an endocrine disorder.
- Autoimmune disorders – When suffering from an autoimmune disorder, the immune system attacks hormone-producing cells in the endocrine glands, which can result in an endocrine disorder.
- Tumors – Due to the cells reproducing rapidly, your hormone glands may develop tumors, leading to an endocrine disorder.
- Infections – When bacteria enter the bloodstream and infect an endocrine gland, it may lead to an endocrine disorder.
- Stress and trauma – Experiencing trauma or stress can lead to increased endocrine gland activity, raising the risk of developing a disorder.
Common Types of Endocrine Disorders
Many conditions are associated with your endocrine system. Each endocrine gland secretes a specific hormone affecting the body differently when it develops a disorder. Some common types are:
Diabetes
Around 11% of the U.S. population has diabetes. This condition occurs when your blood glucose levels are high due to the lack of insulin produced in the pancreas or when your body is not responding to insulin.
There are a few types of diabetes, and the most common among these are type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Thyroid Disease
The thyroid controls many vital functions in the body. When it fails to produce the right amount of hormones, this condition is generally called thyroid disease. Over 20 million in the United States have some type of thyroid disease.
When the thyroid produces too little of these hormones, it is called hypothyroidism. When there is an excess of these hormones, it is called hyperthyroidism.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS affects around 15% of women at reproductive age. This hormonal imbalance occurs when the ovaries produce an excess of hormones, specifically the reproductive hormone androgen.
People with PCOS have a variety of symptoms, such as an irregular menstrual cycle, unpredictable ovulation, and more.
Diagnosis of Endocrine Disorders
Sometimes, endocrine disorders can be difficult to diagnose because their symptoms are similar to other conditions. Your healthcare provider can help you get to the root cause of the symptoms caused by potential hormonal imbalances through proper diagnosis.
Your provider may use these diagnostic techniques to accurately determine your condition:
- Physical examination – Your doctor may ask you for a list of your symptoms and the frequency they occur. To check for thyroid disease, your physician may check your neck for unusual growth.
- Blood tests – Specific blood tests can check your hormonal levels and measure the amount of hormones present in the body.
- Imaging tests – An ultrasound can reveal whether your endocrine gland has increased in size or developed any unusual tumors or growths.
- Biopsy – Removing and examining a small tissue from the gland can further confirm which kind of endocrine disorder you have.
Treatment: What to Expect
Treatment of endocrine disorders depends on the patient’s specific disorder. Your healthcare provider will create a highly individualized treatment plan to manage your endocrine condition.
They may recommend various treatment options, such as:
- Medications – Various medications can aid or hinder the production of hormones. Managing associated symptoms due to the disorder can also be done through medication.
- Hormone replacement therapy – This treatment option aims to replace the hormones missing in the body. It may be recommended for treating menopause symptoms.
- Surgery – In rare cases, your provider may recommend surgery to remove the gland completely.
- Lifestyle changes – Lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms of endocrine disorders to improve the quality of life.
Reliable Endocrinologist Near Me in Upstate New York
Early detection and treatment are essential in managing endocrine disorders. At SUNY: Upstate Medica University’s Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, we offer comprehensive and compassionate patient care in endocrinology.
If you or a loved one are looking for an endocrinologist near you, our staff is always ready to help and provide information about our medical services. Feel free to ask any questions you may have via email at DeptMedicine@upstate.edu.
