Endokrinologija
Dizziness, tachycardia, blurred vision, hand tremors, weakness, sudden weight loss, hair loss, infertility, uncontrollable weight gain, sweating, menstrual problems, joint pain, insomnia, loss of libido… All these symptoms can point to various health problems for which you might initially think you need doctors of different specialties. However, it is possible that you only need one specialist, as these symptoms can indicate issues with one large system that affects the functioning of the entire body—the endocrine system.
The endocrine system consists of various glands and organs that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream, and hormones are chemical messengers that travel from one endocrine gland or organ in the body to another part of the body through the blood, helping them communicate with each other. Hormones play an essential role in many key body functions such as metabolism, growth and development, reproduction, sleep, mood, tissue function, and sexual function. The endocrine glands are:
- Adrenal glands
- Parathyroid glands
- Pineal gland
- Pituitary gland
- Thyroid gland
There are also other glands in the body that are not endocrine glands, such as sweat glands and lymph glands or lymph nodes. In addition, some organs also create and release hormones, such as:
- Pancreas
- Hypothalamus (part of the brain)
- Ovaries
- Testes
The study of the endocrine system is called endocrinology, and endocrinologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating endocrine disorders and diseases.
Symptoms that indicate you need an endocrinologist
Symptoms of endocrine disorders are often difficult to notice, especially in the early stages when the condition is just developing. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is recommended to consult your chosen doctor, who will refer you to an endocrinologist for further analysis and treatment if necessary.
Weight problems
Sudden and unexplained weight gain or loss can be a sign of thyroid disorders (overactive or underactive thyroid, that is, hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism) or issues with insulin resistance and diabetes.
Chronic fatigue
If you constantly feel exhausted, even after rest, this may be a sign of a hormonal imbalance caused by underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), diabetes, or problems with the adrenal glands.
Changes in skin, hair, and nails
Dry skin, dry hair, or brittle nails can be early signs of hypothyroidism, while excessive sweating and oily skin may indicate other hormonal disorders and should be checked.
Menstrual and fertility problems
Frequent problems with the menstrual cycle may be a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid hormone issues. Hormonal imbalances can also significantly affect fertility.
Mood changes and mental health
Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid disorders, can affect mental health and mood, often leading to anxiety and depression.
Increased hunger and thirst
Increased hunger and thirst can also indicate diabetes or insulin resistance, while sudden loss of appetite is more often a symptom of hyperthyroidism.
Sleep problems Insomnia or constant drowsiness can be caused by an imbalance in thyroid or adrenal gland hormones.
Vision problems
Blurred vision may be an early sign of diabetes or a pituitary tumor pressing on the optic nerve.
Unexplained joint and muscle pain
Joint or muscle pain that occurs for no apparent reason can also be symptoms of hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism or acromegaly.
Libido disorders
Decreased libido or erectile dysfunction in men can be caused by hormonal problems such as low testosterone levels.
Diseases that an endocrinologist can detect
Endocrinologists are specialists in diagnosing and treating diseases related to hormone secretion disorders and metabolic disorders. Here are the most common diseases that an endocrinologist can detect and treat:
1. Diabetes
Endocrinologists specialize in diagnosing and treating diabetes, a condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. This includes:
- Type 1 diabetes – an autoimmune disorder where the pancreas no longer produces insulin.
- Type 2 diabetes – the body does not use insulin properly, which is produced by the pancreas.
- Gestational diabetes – a temporary form of diabetes during pregnancy.
- LADA or latent autoimmune diabetes in adults – type 1 diabetes that develops later in life.
- Pancreatic diabetes or diabetes caused by chronic pancreatitis.
2. Thyroid disorders
Endocrinologists diagnose and treat various thyroid disorders such as:
- Goiter or thyroid enlargement, which can cause swallowing or breathing problems.
- Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition that causes hyperthyroidism, excessive thyroid hormone production.
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease that causes hypothyroidism, slowed hormone production.
- Hypothyroidism or low thyroid hormone levels, which can slow metabolism and cause fatigue.
- Hyperthyroidism or high thyroid hormone levels, which speed up metabolism and can cause nervousness and rapid heartbeat.
- Thyroiditis or inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can cause pain and changes in function.
- Thyroid conditions related to pregnancy or problems with the thyroid gland during or after pregnancy.
- Thyroid masses or enlarged masses that may be benign or malignant tumors.
- Thyroid nodules, small solid or fluid-filled nodules within the thyroid gland that may require further investigation.
3. Adrenal gland disorders
Endocrinologists treat the following adrenal gland disorders:
- Cushing’s syndrome or a condition caused by excessive secretion of cortisol, the stress hormone.
- Addison’s disease or an autoimmune disorder that causes insufficient adrenal hormone secretion.
- Pheochromocytoma or a rare adrenal gland tumor that causes high blood pressure.
4. Growth disorders
Endocrinologists diagnose and treat conditions that affect growth, such as:
- Acromegaly or excessive secretion of growth hormone in adults, causing enlargement of hands, feet, and face.
- Hypopituitarism or reduced pituitary function, which can affect growth and other bodily functions.
5. Reproductive system disorders
Endocrinologists also deal with the following reproductive system hormonal disorders:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or a condition affecting menstruation and fertility in women.
- Ovarian cysts or hormonal disorders affecting ovarian function.
- Infertility or hormonal problems affecting fertility in both women and men.
- Menstrual cycle disorders reflected in irregular cycles or the absence of menstruation.
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or hormonal disorders causing physical and emotional symptoms before menstruation.
- Menopause disorders or hormonal problems during and after menopause, such as hot flashes and bone loss.
- Hypogonadism or low levels of male sex hormones (testosterone) or estrogen in women.
- Sexual hormone disorders or imbalances in testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone affecting sexual health.
- Gynecomastia or enlargement of breast tissue in men, often caused by hormonal imbalance.
- Erectile dysfunction – problems with achieving or maintaining an erection due to hormonal disorder
6. Calcium metabolism disorders
Several hormones regulate bone metabolism and calcium levels in the body. Endocrinologists can treat the following conditions related to calcium and bone health:
- Hypercalcemia, or high calcium levels in the blood, which can cause heart and kidney problems.
- Hypocalcemia, or low calcium levels in the blood, which can lead to muscle cramps and bone problems.
- Metabolic bone disease, or disorders that affect bone strength and structure.
- Osteopenia and osteoporosis, which are conditions of reduced bone density and strength, increasing the risk of fractures.
- Vitamin D deficiency causes reduced calcium absorption, leading to bone and muscle problems.
7. Sugar and fat metabolism disorders
In addition to the conditions mentioned above, endocrinologists also treat disorders such as:
- Insulin resistance, a condition that precedes type 2 diabetes.
- Lipid metabolism disorder, or elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.
Endocrinologists typically collaborate with general practitioners, internists, surgeons, and radiologists to provide a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating patients with endocrine problems. Regular check-ups with an endocrinologist are essential for the timely detection and treatment of hormonal disorders to prevent more severe health problems.
8. Endocrine cancers and tumors
Endocrinologists diagnose and treat endocrine cancers and tumors, which are named after the gland or organ in which they occur. Different types of endocrine cancers and tumors include:
- Adrenal gland tumors – benign or malignant tumors that affect adrenal gland function.
- Adrenal cortical carcinoma – rare malignant tumors that affect the outer part of the adrenal glands.
- Neuroendocrine tumors – tumors that develop from neuroendocrine system cells.
- Pancreatic cancer – a malignant tumor of the pancreas that may affect insulin-producing cells.
- Parathyroid carcinoma – a malignant tumor of the parathyroid glands that can lead to hormonal imbalances.
- Parathyroid gland tumors – benign or malignant tumors that affect parathyroid hormone levels.
- Pituitary gland tumors – tumors of the pituitary gland that can affect hormone production.
- Thyroid carcinoma – a malignant tumor of the thyroid gland that can disrupt thyroid hormone function.
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for successfully managing these conditions.
Why choose PULS endocrinologists?
An endocrinology consultation at PULS offers patients a high level of expertise and comprehensive care for all hormonal and metabolic disorders. Here are a few key reasons to choose PULS:
Expertise and experience
Our endocrinologists are highly qualified and specialized in diagnosing and treating a wide range of endocrine disorders. For example, Prof. Dr. Biljana Nedeljković Beleslin’s area of interest includes thyroid disorders, Dr. Jelena Stanarčić Gajović specializes in diabetes and cardiovascular complications, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nataša Rajković focuses on lipid disorders and cardiovascular complications in diabetes. Their experience enables precise diagnosis and effective treatment for patients of all ages.
Comprehensive treatment approach
At our hospital, you can expect a multidisciplinary approach. Endocrinologists closely collaborate with general practitioners, internists, radiologists, and surgeons to provide patients with a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan for optimal outcomes.
Advanced diagnostic technology
Our clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology for precise diagnosis of endocrine system disorders. Patients have access to thyroid ultrasound, laboratory tests to assess hormone levels, as well as CT scanning, enabling quick and accurate diagnosis.
Personalized treatment plan
Each patient receives an individually tailored treatment plan based on their specific needs and health condition. Whether it’s medication therapy, lifestyle change advice, or hormone therapy, our endocrinologists ensure that the treatment is suited to each patient for long-term health improvement.
Timely diagnosis and prevention of complications
Hormonal disorders, such as diabetes, thyroid diseases, or osteoporosis, often require early diagnosis to prevent more severe complications. Our endocrinologists use effective diagnostic methods that allow for timely disease detection and prevention of further complications.
Patient comfort and quality support
PULS provides a pleasant environment for patients, focusing on quality communication and support throughout the entire treatment process. Patients can expect prompt appointments, friendly staff, and detailed explanations regarding their health and treatment.
Monitoring and long-term control
Treating hormonal disorders often requires long-term control and monitoring. Our endocrinologists track patients’ progress, regularly adjust therapies, and offer support in managing chronic conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or metabolic issues.
You can check the prices of endocrinology consultations in our price list.