When should you see an endocrinologist?

Endocrinology is a field, that examines the structure and function of the endocrine system and its components. It also looks at the hormones involved as well as the diagnosis and treatment of related medical conditions.

• Thyroid disorders: Symptoms including fatigue, weight loss, swelling or pain in the neck, difficulty concentrating, excessive sweating, palpitations, hand tremors. But, conversely, weight gain, cold sensitivity, thickened and rough skin, drowsiness and exhaustion may indicate thyroid problems.
• Diabetes: Endocrinologists are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination and feeling of hunger, weight loss with no clear reason, weight gain (particularly in the pre-diabetic stage), and slow healing of wounds.
• Disorders of pituitary gland: Signs may include growth disorders, weakness, unusual milk secretion from the breasts, menstrual cycle disorders, infertility, enlargement of the hands and feet, coarse facial features, and persistent headaches.
• Adrenal disorders: weight loss and weakness, changes in skin colour (i.e. increased skin pigmentation or reddish-purple stretch marks), fat deposits on the trunk, shoulders and face, muscle weakness, unusual hair growth.
• Disorders of parathyroid glands: The parathyroid glands regulate the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus in the body. If the parathyroid glands do not function properly, several disorders may develop. Signs of possible symptoms in case of hyperthyroidism include muscle weakness, fatigue, bone pain, gastrointestinal problems and kidney stones. For hypothyroidism, symptoms include muscle cramps, muscle tension, numbness, itching, anxiety and tingling sensation in the hands and feet.
• Weight problems: Both excess weight and unusually low weight may indicate health problems, which an endocrinologist can help with.
• Problems with hair growth, or hair loss: These are common symptoms associated with many hormonal conditions– underactive or overactive thyroid, disorders of the adrenal glands and pituitary gland, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the menopause and other hormonal disorders.

Appointments