Mathilde Lacombe

Endocrinologists are expert doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating disorders related to the endocrine system. Our endocrine system is made up of glands and organs that produce hormones. We don’t know when the call will come for us so we should get prepared for the visit.

If you are planning for regular checkups or wondering what to ask on your first visit to an endocrinologist then follow this guide. This will cover the necessary information about your first visit to an endocrinologist.

Understand Endocrinologists: Their Roles And Specializations

An endocrinologist is a healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of our endocrine system. The endocrine system is important because it controls many body functions including growth, reproduction and metabolism. Whenever you face a problem with the endocrine system you need to visit an endocrine specialist which is an endocrinologist.

There are different specialties of an endocrinologist. They can treat many issues, including:

• Hormonal disbalance or related conditions can be treated with the guidance of an endocrinologist including diabetes, thyroid conditions and hormone-related infertility.
• Metabolic disorders such as metabolic bone disease and obesity can be diagnosed and treated by endocrine specialists.
• If you are facing a problem with growth then your endocrine specialists can conduct examinations regarding growth hormones. They can suggest better treatments to balance these hormones.
• Issues with male and female hormones and menopausal conditions can be treated at an endocrinologist’s office.

Our endocrine system is responsible for growth and development which is why you must visit for a regular check-up or when you face growth problems.

What Do Endocrinologists Do On Your First Visit?

During your first visit to endocrinologists, they can review your medical history, and ask about your symptoms, signs and physical health. They can conduct physical examinations to measure and detect the issue. According to your health condition, they can recommend some other tests including blood tests or imaging. Here is what you can expect on your first visit to them:

●       Medical History

The expert will ask you if you have any family history or medical history related to the endocrine system or others. They may ask about the medications you are taking currently, allergies and others.

●       Physical Examination

An endocrinologist will take your vital signs, including blood pressure, body temperature and pulse rate. Your weight and height will also be checked. They will do all of this to identify signs of endocrine disorders which can be hard to spot normally.

●       Tests

An endocrinologist will perform tests to diagnose and treat hormonal imbalances. Levels of hormones, endocrine glands and disorders will be checked during these tests. Some additional tests such as blood, urine or imaging tests will help detect the issue properly.

●       Symptoms Discussion

Your endocrine specialists will discuss the symptoms and signs you must be having. The symptoms may include mood changes, sudden fatigue, cravings, skin changes, unexplained hair loss, increased urination, vision change and more. You must inform your specialist about all these symptoms or any of these you are facing.

●       Diagnosing The Issue

Your endocrinologist will review your medical history and test reports to diagnose your condition. Some endocrine disorders may pass through genes so it is important to give a clear check to your family history so that treatment can move ahead accurately.

●       Treatment Plan

An endocrinologist will recommend a variety of treatments for conditions affecting the endocrine system, including medication, lifestyle changes and surgical treatment (if needed). Here are many treatment plans to treat endocrine disorders including hormone replacement therapy, insulin secretagogues, insulin sensitisers and antithyroid medicines.

How Would You Know If It Is Time To Visit Endocrinologist?

You might need to visit an endocrinologist if you have symptoms like unexplained hair loss, hormonal imbalance, tiredness and several symptoms indicating endocrine disorders. Here is what you must notice while looking for endocrine disorder symptoms:

• Sudden fast or low heart rate as compared to normal. Check for the heart rate regularly and keep notes.
• High blood sugar levels.
• Hormonal imbalances are highly responsible for infertility. This can be a sign to visit an endocrine specialist.
• Women usually face menstrual changes or issues. You must visit for expert advice if your menstrual cycle is getting disturbed by any chance.
• Sudden changes in the skin or eyes can be an indication of getting a check-up.
• If you are feeling tired despite getting good rest, then it is time to book an appointment with an endocrinologist.

Get a check-up and expert guidance at the right time before the condition gets worse. Precaution is better than cure is always on top for every disease. Look for an endocrinologist in Brisbane and get started.