Endocrinology
Endocrinology deals with a wide range of conditions that involve the endocrine glands which are organs that synthesize and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. The glands namely, hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, pancreas, ovaries, and testes, collectively form endocrine system.
Endocrine conditions, commonly referred to as hormonal disorders, arise when the endocrine system, responsible for producing and regulating hormones, malfunction. These conditions may lead to a variety of diseases due to hormonal imbalances, thereby impacting growth, metabolism, sexual function, and mood.
Common Endocrine Conditions:
- Diabetes: The body’s inability to produce or use insulin, causing raised blood sugar levels.
- Thyroid Disorders: Conditions like Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) impacting metabolism and energy levels.
- Adrenal Insufficiency (Addison’s Disease):
Wherein the adrenal glands don’t produce enough cortisol, leading to fatigue and low blood pressure.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):
A condition in women, which lead to irregular periods, excessive hair growth, and acne, arising out of hormonal disorders.
- Cushing’s Syndrome:
Prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels, resulting in weight gain, muscular weakness, and skin thinning.
- Pituitary Disorders:
These disorders may affect growth, metabolism, and hormone production, potentially impact other endocrine glands.
- Osteoporosis:
A condition of calcium resorption form the bones making it weak and brittle, with causes linked to hormonal changes.
Some causes of Endocrine Disorders:
- Hormone Imbalances:Over or under hormone production by glands.
- Genetic Factors:Inherited conditions can be the reason for endocrine disorders.
- Infections or Diseases:Certain infections or diseases can may disturb the functioning of the endocrine glands.
- Stress:Chronic stress can have an impact on the hormone levels and lead to endocrine imbalances.
Tumors or Growths: Disruption of hormone production, resulting from the presence of Benign or malignant growths in endocrine glands.