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.
<img src="endocrinology.jpg" alt="endocrinologist at CPC Multi-Specialty Group" /> 

Who We Treat

At CPC Multi-Specialty Group, we help patients experiencing problems with hormone-producing glands, including the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenals, gonads (ovaries, testes), and the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas.

The endocrinology specialists at CPC often see patients with common endocrine disorders such as:

  • Addison’s disease
  • Diabetes
  • Cushing’s syndrome
  • Growth disorders, like gigantism or stunted growth
  • Infertility

When to See an Endocrinologist

The signs and symptoms of a hormone-related disorder can vary greatly, depending on the hormone involved – remember, the body produces more than 50 different types of hormones that regulate a wide variety of bodily functions. If you suspect an endocrine disorder, make an appointment to see an endocrinologist who can either confirm or rule out certain conditions.

If you have or suspect an endocrine disorder and you’re experiencing the following, you should see your endocrinologist as soon as possible:

  • Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Frequent urination
  • Excessive thirst or hunger
  • Nausea or vomiting

Hormone-related disorders may be genetic in origin – or the result of exposure to endocrine-disrupters like lead, pesticides, and chemicals used in some plastic food containers.

Endocrinologist in Cullman, AL

Providers

Location

If you have a hormone-related medical condition or concern, make an appointment to see the endocrinology experts at CPC Multi-Specialty Group in Cullman, Alabama. Call us at (256) 736-2273 to schedule a consultation or simply request an appointment right now.