The simple answer to the question is: When you have a problem involving your endocrine system. But in real life, it’s more complicated than that.

The endocrine system is a network of glands and other structures that monitor, make and release the hormones that control essential functions, including reproduction, growth, energy levels, metabolism, the sleep cycle, and responses to stress.

Endocrine diseases have a major impact on public health. They can lead to diminished quality of life, long-term disabilities and death. The symptoms of endocrine diseases can sometimes be baffling and treatments are not always clear-cut. Endocrinologists  are specially trained to diagnose and treat hormone-related conditions, like diabetes, thyroid complications, and fertility issues.

For people thinking “When should you see an endocrinologist?” the first step is to recognize the symptoms. Then, you can talk to your primary care physician, for a possible referral, or seek help directly from a specialist. This article will help you understand more about hormone-related problems and their symptoms.

Understanding the role of an endocrinologist

Endocrinologists undergo years of advanced training to become experts at identifying and treating conditions affecting the endocrine system . The system includes the hypothalamus, pineal body, pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, adrenal glands, pancreas, ovaries (in women), testicles (in men), and adipose tissue (body fat).

Common conditions managed by endocrinologists

Many different types of hormonal dysfunctions and imbalances might necessitate the involvement of an endocrinologist, including:

• An endocrinologist can advise you on the best course of treatment for diabetes management, including medication, and on monitoring your blood sugar levels, to avoid complications like heart disease, stroke, or renal failure.
• Insulin resistance. An endocrinologist can help manage insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes, by recommending lifestyle changes and treatment options.
• As we age, the body may lose its capacity for producing new bone tissue due to a decrease in sex hormone levels, especially estrogen in women. In addition to medicine, an endocrinologist may recommend strength-training exercises and nutritional supplements to manage osteoporosis.
• Infertility and menstrual irregularities. An endocrinologist specializing in reproductive endocrinology can prescribe hormone therapy or drugs to aid with infertility. They can also help with hormonal issues that make it difficult to conceive a child, like polycystic ovary syndrome.
• Common menopausal symptoms include increased irritability, forgetfulness, sleep disruptions, night sweats, and hot flashes. An endocrinologist can help with hormone balance and symptom management.
• Thyroid disorders. Kidney stones, chronic tiredness, memory and concentration problems, weight gain, muscular pains, dry skin, depression, and joint and bone pain are all signs of hormone secretion that may be either excessive or inadequate. Your endocrinologist may be able to prescribe medicine to help regulate hormone levels and alleviate these symptoms.
• Pituitary disorders. When the pituitary gland isn’t working properly, it affects hormone regulation, which in turn can cause reproduction, growth, and metabolism issues. Diagnosing and treating related conditions, like hypopituitarism or Cushing syndrome, is the job of an endocrinologist.
• Adrenal gland disorders. Problems with the adrenal glands, which produce vital hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, may cause changes in weight, abnormal blood pressure readings, and exhaustion. An endocrinologist can help you regain proper adrenal function.
• Hirsutism, or excessive hair growth. Hormones imbalance, like an excess of male hormones or a lack of estrogen, are often the main cause of excessive hair growth in women, especially on the back, chest, and face. An endocrinologist’s expertise is crucial for effectively managing this condition.

Symptoms  indicating a need for an endocrinologist

The endocrine system affects so many functions in the body that the list of symptoms indicating a potential problem is quite extensive. If you notice any of the following signs, you might need to schedule a visit with an endocrinologist:

• Persistent fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Low estrogen or testosterone levels
• Blood sugar abnormalities
• Excessive thirst or urination
• Unexplained weight changes or weight gain, especially in the face, neck, or upper back (common in Cushing syndrome)
• Feeling jittery or shaky
• Irregular heart rate
• Mood and sleep disturbances
• Hair loss
• Skin changes
• Excessive sweating, heat intolerance, or bulging eyes (common in Graves’ disease)
• Reproductive issues
• Low libido
• Irregular or missed periods
• Bone health concerns, like frequent fractures or loss of height
• Persistive digestive problems
• Hot flashes
• Insomnia

When to seek an endocrinology consultation

Besides the presence of the symptoms mentioned above, there may be other situations where seeing an endocrinologist  is a good idea, including:

• To get a diagnosis confirmed. Seeing an endocrinologist can help confirm a suspected hormonal imbalance or condition through hormonal testing.
• Symptoms persist despite standard treatment. If your symptoms don’t improve with regular treatment, an endocrinologist may be able to help with diagnosing and managing underlying hormonal issues.
• Management of complex conditions. An endocrinologist can help manage chronic conditions like menopause or diabetes.
• Referral from doctor. Your doctor may refer you to an endocrinologist if you experience ongoing problems with hormones or complications with existing conditions.
• Family history. A family history of endocrine issues may warrant seeing an endocrinologist for early detection.
• Pregnancy complications. An endocrinologist can help with pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes or thyroid imbalances.

Preparing for your visit to an endocrinologist

Here’s what you should do before seeing an endocrinologist  for the first time:

• Gather medical info. Bring your medical records, including test results and any previous diagnoses.
• Track symptoms and metrics. Keep track of changes like weight, blood sugar levels, and other relevant symptoms. The more you can tell your doctor about your health, the better they can assess and manage your condition.
• Bring a list of questions. Think of any questions or concerns you want to address during your appointment and write them down so you don’t forget to ask them.
• Bring support. Consider bringing a friend or family member for emotional support during your visit.
• Be honest. Be completely transparent and honest with the doctor about your lifestyle, medications, symptoms, and health history.

When should you see an endocrinologist?

The endocrinologists here at Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health are experts in hormones, metabolic health, and endocrine disorders. We can help you with everything from diabetes and menopause to problems with your metabolism and more.

Our physicians have extensive training in the detection of complicated diseases, including those with mild symptoms like perimenopausal or premature ovarian failure. Whether you’re dealing with infertility, osteoporosis, or other problems with hormone production, our staff is here to help you reach your health goals with a personalized treatment plan.

About Dr. Adeniran

Dr. Omolara “Grace” Adeniran received her doctor of medicine degree at Lugansk State Medical University in Ukraine. In Brooklyn, NY, she completed her Internal Medicine Residency at Brookdale University Hospital and an Endocrinology Fellowship at SUNY Downstate Medical Center.

Dr. Adeniran treats adults of all ages and specializes in a variety of endocrine-related conditions, including diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, and pituitary, adrenal, and thyroid gland disorders. She wrote a guide for medical professionals, “The Residency-Intern Diary,” which was published in 2023. When she’s not in her medical office, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and watching action movies.

Request an appointment with Dr. Adeniran by calling 813-977-2020.