An endocrinologist diagnoses and treats diseases of the endocrine system - the system of glands that produces hormones that regulate essential activities in the body. These activities include metabolism, reproduction, cholesterol, osteoporosis, growth and development. Endocrine glands include the thyroid, parathyroid, pancreas, ovaries, testes, adrenal, pituitary and hypothalamus.

What is Endocrinology?
Endocrinology is the medical specialty concerned with hormone production and dysfunction. Endocrine glands produce hormones that regulate metabolism, reproduction, growth and development. They may be overactive or underactive.

What is diabetes?
Diabetes is an endocrine disease that prevents your body from properly processing the foods you eat. Normally, the pancreas releases a hormone called insulin, which assists in transporting the glucose from the blood to cells in the body. A person with diabetes does not produce enough insulin and, consequently, the glucose in the blood rises above normal.

What are some symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, increased hunger and thirst, weakness and fatigue, and changes in weight. Often, diabetes may be present for years with no symptoms.

Why is careful diabetes treatment important?
Abnormal blood sugars contribute to the loss of vision, kidney and nerve function. Heart disease and strokes are more common if diabetes is not well controlled.

What other endocrine conditions are common?
Abnormal function of the thyroid is common. Endocrinologists also have special training in the treatment of cholesterol problems, osteoporosis and many other disorders of the endocrine gland.

Call (414) 272-8950 for more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our Endocrinologists.