Endocrinology

If you’ve been referred to an endocrinologist, it’s likely your doctor suspects you may have a hormone-related disorder of the endocrine system.

How the Endocrine System Works

The human endocrine system is made up of glands located throughout the body that release hormones. These hormones act as chemical messengers, helping to regulate bodily functions such as metabolism, breathing, reproduction, growth, movement, and more. Examples of the biological processes controlled or regulated by hormones include:

• Blood sugar levels
• Reproductive development & function
• Developmental growth
• Metabolism and energy levels

More than 50 different types of hormones are released by the body – and each essentially triggers a different response from receptor cells within an organ or tissue of the body. For example:

• The pancreas produces insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. Insufficient levels of insulin, or when the body is unable to process insulin, can result in diabetes.
• The pituitary gland, located in the brain, produces growth hormones as well as hormones that stimulate production of testosterone, a primary sex hormone, by the testes (in men) and ovaries (in women). Problems can stunt growth or have a range of effects on the reproductive system.
• Thyroid hormones are produced by the thyroid gland in the neck. When there is too little or too much of this hormone, it can slow or speed your metabolism, having a direct effect on whether you have sufficient energy during the day or are constantly fatigued.