What is an endocrine assessment?
The endocrine system consists of various glands responsible for producing and secreting hormones. The endocrine system influences your heart rate, the development of your bones and tissues, and even your ability to become pregnant.
The improper functioning of the endocrine system can put you at risk of developing endocrine disorders such as diabetes, thyroid disease, development problems, sexual dysfunction, and a variety of other disorders linked to hormonal imbalance.
A physician who conducts an endocrine assessment is called an endocrinologist. The endocrinologist conducts the endocrine assessment to determine the following:
- to ascertain the hormone levels in a patient’s body
- to ensure that the endocrine system is working properly
- to identify the root cause of an endocrinological disorder
- to confirm an earlier diagnosis
What causes endocrine disorders?
There are different causes of endocrine disorders depending upon the condition. The two main reasons causing endocrine disorders are as follows:
- Hormonal Imbalance: This is a condition where the under-production or over-production of hormones results in an endocrine disorder. For instance, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are common endocrine disorders due to hormonal imbalances.
- Development of lesions (tumours): This is a condition where the lesions such as nodules or tumours develop in the endocrine system (which may or may not impact hormone levels). For instance, Acromegaly and Cushing's syndrome are due to the tumours of the endocrine system.
When should I see a doctor?
The first step is to observe your signs and symptoms and seek medical attention at the earliest. Early diagnosis of a condition can help in prompt treatment. Different endocrine disorders have distinct symptoms. Some common signs that may indicate an endocrine disorder are as follows:
- Fatigue
- Vision changes
- Excessive thirst and hunger
- Nausea and vomiting
- Frequent urination
- Gaining or losing weight without trying
- Depression or anxiety
- Excessive hair growth
- Alterations to the menstrual period
- Muscle weakness
- Feeling cold
- Flashes of heat
What to expect on your visit to an endocrinologist?
On your visit to an endocrinologist, you may have to undergo the following:
- Weight and height measurements.
- Pulse and blood sugar levels are measured.
- Evaluation of hands and feet for skin infections and the teeth for oral infections.
- Checking the breathing and heartbeat.
- Inquiries about the patient's eating habits, medical background, and present symptoms.
- Enquires about your regular blood sugar ranges or the diabetic drugs you take.
- Tests on blood and urine.
- A complete examination.
What are the abnormal results of the endocrine assessment?
Upon completion of the assessment, the blood and urine samples go into the laboratory for analysis. Once the lab analysis is performed, the doctor receives the lab reports. The report's abnormal results may include the following:
- Decreased hormone secretion and production.
- Altered biological activity and hormone metabolism.
- Reduced reactivity of target tissues to hormones.
- Circadian rhythms alterations (changes in the body, mind and behaviour that occur on a 24-hour cycle.)
Additionally, the assessment finds the following endocrine disorders:
- Diabetes: Type 1, 2 or gestational
- Hypoglycaemia
- Obesity management
- Osteoporosis
- Growth disorders
- Cushing's syndrome
- Pituitary disorders
- Celiac disease
- Addison's disease
- Thyroid disorders.
- Lipid disorders
- Reproductive disorders
- Acromegaly
What is the next step?
After your doctor interprets the abnormal results of the assessment, a treatment plan is created according to the type of your endocrine disorder. The doctor guides you through every possible treatment that can alleviate the root cause of the endocrine disorder and improve the endocrine system's functioning.
Conclusion
A significant contributing factor to endocrine disorders, including infertility, is an imbalance in the hormones secreted by the endocrine system. Endocrine assessment is a perfectly safe and effective test for diagnosing endocrine disorders. The most prevalent signs of endocrine disorders include fatigue, weakness, nausea and unexpected weight gain or loss. If you encounter any symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor will guide you through all the possible treatment options available as per your condition.
Yes, diabetes is the most common endocrine disorder. Diabetes arises due to an imbalance in hormones. The condition is usually treated by hormone supplements that may regulate hormone metabolism.
The most common signs or symptoms that indicate endocrine disorders are as follows: • frequent thirst or hunger • fatigue • frequent urination • nausea or vomiting • vision changes • weight gain or loss without trying
Endocrine disorders can be triggered due to the following key factors: 1) Underproduction of a certain hormone 2) Overproduction of a particular hormone 3) A problem with the hormone's normal activity
You may be required to fast for eight-hour (overnight) before the test. This implies that throughout this time, you can drink water and consume regular medications. Your doctor will advise you regarding the same.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women which causes infertility.
