Angie's LIST Guide to
Endocrinology/metabolism

Endocrinologists diagnose glandular problems within the endocrine system, which includes the thyroid, pancreas, adrenal gland, pituitary gland, parathyroid gland, hypothalamus and the ovaries and testes.

Diabetes is perhaps the most prevalent disorder treated by a doctor specializing in endocrinology. The pancreas produces the hormone insulin, which the body needs to convert food into energy. Diabetes occurs when the body stops producing insulin—as in type 1, previously known as juvenile diabetes—or the body becomes resistant to it—as in type 2 diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "Diabetes affects 25.8 million people 8.3% of the U.S. population."

Endocrinologists diagnose and treat glandular disorders that affect the metabolism, which can result in either decreased or increased levels of energy, and reproduction, which can cause infertility. They help restore the body's hormones to normal functioning levels for patients suffering from thyroid diseases and metabolic disorders. They also treat early menopause and hypertension.

When endocrine system disorders create imbalance in your body's hormone levels, they can affect your metabolism and the regulation of insulin and sugar levels. An underactive thyroid can lead to weight gain and sluggishness.