Hormonal imbalance - causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment. Unstable and irregular menstruation. What is the endocrine system

Which doctor should a man see for problems in the intimate sphere, infertility, male impotence, sexually transmitted diseases and similar problems?

IS UROLOGIST A MALE OR FEMALE DOCTOR?

Urology deals with the treatment of diseases that affect the urinary tract (kidneys, ureter, bladder and urethra) and external genitalia (penis and). Urologists treat these disorders in both men and women. Pediatric urology includes problems that may occur in newborn infants (eg, phimosis, undescended testicle, renal stasis, urinary tract infections, etc.).

Urologists can also monitor and manage men with prostate diseases, infertility, and some types of cancer. Genital surgery is considered a separate branch of urology, which focuses on operations in the area of ​​the male reproductive organs.

WHAT IS A DOCTOR CALLED FOR MALE PART?

An andrologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats male problems, including those related to infertility. The main focus of any andrologist is male reproductive health. This specialist is considered an expert in the fields of impotence, prostate problems, and can also help with pain and discomfort associated with groin injuries.

Sometimes such a doctor may be called a “male gynecologist,” although this is incorrect, since the word “gynecology” itself comes from the Greek gynaikos- “woman” and, therefore, has nothing to do with men’s problems.

These specialists help men with fertility problems and erectile dysfunction. They perform physical examinations and examinations, and prescribe tests and medications. Some andrologists also perform surgical procedures, including vasectomy (sterilization), augmentation () and gender reassignment procedures.

Connection with urology

Andrology is often considered a branch of urology. Many urologists offer consultations and limited treatment for men with reproductive problems, although for chronic diseases and more complex conditions it is better to see an andrologist. A doctor who combines both specialties may have more experience and knowledge regarding male reproductive problems and possible treatments.

MALE DOCTOR VENEREOLOGIST: WHAT HE TREATS

The treatment of sexually transmitted diseases and sexually transmitted infections is carried out by a venereologist or dermatovenerologist. This area of ​​medicine divides all existing STIs into four large groups:

The so-called classic diseases (syphilis, gonorrhea, donovanosis, etc.).

Relatively recently identified diseases (trichomoniasis, etc.).

The third group includes skin diseases that are transmitted from person to person through sexual contact (scabies, pubic lice, etc.).

Diseases that affect other organs (HIV, hepatitis B and C).

Sexual life is an intimate sphere, so many men categorically refuse to visit a specialist. Some of them do not know that sexually transmitted infections can affect vital organs and negatively affect reproductive function.

Untreated chlamydia can develop into prostatitis or orchitis. The development of sexually transmitted diseases causes changes in the genitourinary system, and in the future can cause infertility.

For the following, a man should consult a venereologist as soon as possible:

• itchy sensation in the perineum,
• pus in urine
• rash on or around the genitals.

Before treatment, the venereologist identifies the presence of infection and determines the course of the disease in the patient. When presenting early and with recent infection, the man usually has an acute form. In the chronic form of the disease, the symptoms may be less pronounced, but in this case the body suffers more. After testing, the doctor prescribes treatment (usually antibacterial drugs and drugs to support the immune system).

ENDOCRINOLOGIST - DOCTOR FOR MEN'S PROBLEMS AND INFERTILITY

Hormonal imbalance may be due to genetic or environmental factors. Some babies are born with hormonal problems, which can lead to a range of health problems, such as stunted growth. Endocrine disrupting chemicals, such as pesticides, lead and phthalates, which are used in plastic food containers, can also sometimes cause hormone disruption.

If a GP or general practitioner suspects that the underlying cause of the disease is related to a hormone imbalance, he may refer the man to an endocrinologist. These doctors diagnose and treat diseases that affect the glands and hormones. Endocrinologists strive to restore the balance of hormones in the body. They typically treat the following conditions:

• diabetes,
• osteoporosis,
• metabolic disorders,
• thyroid diseases,
• excessive or insufficient production of hormones and related disorders,
• some types of cancer
• short stature,
• infertility.

During the first visit, the doctor will ask the patient a series of questions to diagnose the problem. He may ask what medications the man is taking or has taken, what his eating habits are, whether he has relatives with endocrine disorders, or whether he suffers from allergies or other chronic diseases.

The endocrinologist may ask about symptoms that seem unrelated to the underlying problem. This is due to the fact that hormones affect various body systems and small changes in one gland can affect completely different organs.

The doctor can also check a man’s heart rate and blood pressure, and look at the condition of his skin and hair. After consultation, the endocrinologist usually prescribes blood tests to determine the levels of hormones: insulin, etc. All this helps to correctly diagnose and prescribe treatment.

WHAT IS THE CALL OF A DOCTOR WHO TREATS MEN'S PROBLEMS

A sexologist, or sex therapist, may be a psychiatrist, family therapist or psychologist who has undergone additional training. Sex therapy examines sexual problems and specific ways to solve them. As a rule, neither urologists nor gynecologists are able to competently resolve such issues. Sexologists have knowledge about the physiological processes that are part of human sexuality. They may also collaborate with doctors from other specialties to address the patient's sexual problems.

Sex therapists, as a rule, do not treat homosexuality, but individual psychiatrists sometimes try to do so. These specialists can advise a man, for example, with psychological impotence or issues related to the sexual sphere. Sexologists should solve these problems from a scientific, not an ideological point of view.

The article will tell you how to survive hormonal imbalance and how to improve your condition.

What is hormonal imbalance in women, men, girls and adolescents: why is it dangerous, what are the consequences?

If we consider female hormonal imbalance, it occurs in most cases due to the fact that the body suffers from diseases of the reproductive system. The well-established and disordered functioning of the immune system is also of great importance, i.e. poor immunity – upset hormonal levels. It is worth noting that the causes of violations vary depending on gender.

Why does hormonal imbalance occur?

• CNS dysfunction
• Pathology of peripheral glands
• Congenital underdevelopment
• Acquired tumors and injuries
• Unfavorable environment

The endocrine gland has a great influence on human hormonal levels. These glands are invariably associated with the reproductive system and reproductive organs. A larger number of hormones in the body “live out” their metabolic process in the liver, after which they are excreted by the kidneys. Therefore, it is important to take care of the health of these organs to avoid hormonal imbalance.

IMPORTANT: Heredity is also of great importance in this matter. If there is a genetic predisposition in your family to instability and hormonal imbalances, you should be attentive to any kind of disruption of the reproductive or endocrine system, especially during puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause in women.

You can tell if you have hormonal imbalances based on a number of signs:

• Disturbed functioning of the reproductive system
• Impaired metabolism in the body
• Problems in the functioning of the central nervous system
• During adolescence, the formation of “secondary” sexual characteristics may be disrupted.
• In some cases, a person may experience “masculinization” or “feminization.”
• Low sexual desire (genital dysfunction, lack of erection, weak libido).
• Nervous exhaustion
• Frequent irritability
• Fatigue and drowsiness, fatigue
• Emotional instability (depression, tearfulness, apathy).
• Deterioration of intelligence and mental abilities (in severe cases).

IMPORTANT: The most basic and pronounced symptom of a hormonal disorder in the body is excessive weight gain and damage to the skeletal system due to impaired metabolism in the body (bones do not receive calcium).

All symptoms of a hormonal disorder can be normalized and thereby improve your condition. However, you should know that long-term imbalance can lead to serious complications and more severe illnesses. If treatment is not carried out on time and correctly, then a person can experience infertility, obesity, stroke, heart attack, diabetes.

How do you know if you have a hormonal disorder?

Can women experience hormonal imbalance after childbirth, miscarriage, or termination of pregnancy?

The hormonal background of women is very unstable, especially if she experiences changes in her body associated with reproductive function:

• Miscarriage. This is, simply put, a “natural” abortion, when the woman’s body rejects the conceived fetus for a number of reasons (health problems of the mother or child). The formation of the fetus and the course of pregnancy is a complex process during which a number of biological and chemical reactions occur in the human body. An unexpected disruption to the normal course of pregnancy causes the body to experience stress due to an imbalance in the amount of certain hormones. In addition, pregnancy begins, proceeds and ends “under the supervision” of hormones. In a pregnant woman, estrogen levels decrease and progesterone levels increase.
• Abortion. If a miscarriage occurs through natural rejection under the body, then abortion is human intervention. The consequences of such an intervention are similar to those that a woman’s body experiences after a miscarriage.
• Childbirth. They make a serious “restructuring” in a woman’s hormonal background. During pregnancy, the body produces a number of hormones necessary for the normal development of the fetus and the formation of milk in the glands; after the birth of the child, they must slowly but “surely” return to normal.

Hormonal imbalances due to disrupted pregnancy

Hormonal imbalance after childbirth: causes, symptoms, consequences

If a woman, after giving birth, notices a number of symptoms of disrupted hormonal levels, she should pay attention to her health. Imbalance may occur due to a number of reasons:

• Long labor
• Difficult birth
• Frequent illnesses during pregnancy
• Lack of breast milk
• Frequent stress during pregnancy
• Use of certain medications
• Bad habits
• Poor nutrition (unhealthy diet)

IMPORTANT: A woman’s lack of attention to her body or, conversely, excessive care for the child (lack of sleep, stress, worries) become an obstacle to the restoration of hormonal levels after childbirth.

How does hormone imbalance manifest after childbirth?

• Excessive emotionality
• Frequent mood swings
• Constant nervousness
• Severe irritability
• Unreasonable aggressiveness
• Emerging feelings of guilt and negative thoughts
• Suspiciousness and obsessive thoughts
• Depression and apathy
• Lack of milk
• Noticeable hair loss
• Obesity
• Painful periods
• Acne and rashes on the face
• Decreased libido

IMPORTANT: Postpartum depression is a normal condition for a woman after giving birth, but if it is prolonged and lasts approximately 2 months, it is no longer normal. Hormonal imbalance in this case can be treated only after consulting a doctor and with medication.

Condition of a woman after childbirth

Could there be a hormonal imbalance after stopping OK, after Escapelle, or stress?

There are situations when a woman decides to give up oral contraceptives after a long period of use:

• Health problems
• Changing the type of contraception
• The decision to have a child
• Unexpected pregnancy
• Finding a permanent sexual partner
• Fear of taking hormones for a long time

Cancellation of OCs can give a woman some consequences and reactions of the body, the main one of which is the active work of the ovaries, which has been “muffled” for a long time.

After taking any oral contraceptive, a woman experiences hormonal changes:

• The menstrual cycle is normalized
• The endometrium changes
• A number of chemical reactions occur in the body

IMPORTANT: Normalization of the background occurs approximately two to three months after discontinuation of OK, if you took them only for the purpose of contraception. If you continue to feel unwell and observe periodic symptoms of hormonal imbalance, you should consult a doctor.

Restructuring the body after stopping OK

Which doctor should I contact if I have a hormonal imbalance, what tests should I take?

If a hormonal imbalance is suspected, a woman should visit with consultation of two doctors:

• Gynecologist
• Endocrinologist

Both doctors will prescribe a blood test for your hormone levels, conduct an examination and give you a referral for an ultrasound. An ultrasound should examine the functioning of the thyroid gland and check its normal functioning. Only after a detailed analysis can a doctor prescribe truly correct and effective treatment.

Pregnancy or hormonal imbalance: what are the differences?

Hormonal imbalance and pregnancy feel very similar. A woman feels changes in her body, which are very eloquent:

• Lack of menstruation
• Mood swings
• Lack of appetite
• Nausea
• Tearfulness and depression
• Excessive overeating
• Weight gain
• Frequent urination

In the case of hormonal imbalance, it is important to note that it may be accompanied by unpleasant painful sensations in the pelvic area (if the internal genital organs, liver or kidneys are affected).

Pay attention to a number of other symptoms characteristic of hormonal imbalance, but not inherent in pregnancy:

• Deterioration of hair, skin and nails
• Dry mouth and larynx
• Constant feeling of hunger
• Increased heart rate
• Heavy sweating
• Acne
• Frequent bone fractures
• Pressure surges

IMPORTANT: In any case, only a test, a blood test for hCG and an ultrasound will help determine the presence of pregnancy.

How do you know if you have a hormonal imbalance?

Positive pregnancy test, discharge and delay due to hormonal imbalance: how to induce menstruation?

In some cases, hormonal imbalance can cause a “false” positive pregnancy test. If you did an ultrasound and the doctor said with confidence that there was no conception, you should take care of your health and normalize your hormone levels.

If, according to estimates, you expect your period, but you don’t, the problem is quite serious and requires medical intervention from doctors. If you have been experiencing scanty periods for a long time (spotty), this is also a sign of hormonal imbalance. If you have similar symptoms, you can contact your gynecologist.

Why there is no menstruation with disturbed hormonal levels:

• Adrenal glands are not working properly
• The functioning of the thyroid gland and pancreas is disrupted
• OK was taken incorrectly
• Ovarian diseases
• Cervical erosion
• Taking certain medications

IMPORTANT: In some cases, spotting instead of menstruation that occurs from time to time is uterine bleeding, but not menstruation. Pay attention to other symptoms: lower back and side pain, breast swelling and tingling, vaginal dryness. If your period is not on time, you should not call it yourself. In this case, it is important to consult a specialist for effective treatment.

Delay due to hormonal imbalance

How to get rid of premenstrual syndrome, how to get pregnant with hormonal imbalance?

You can “remove” premenstrual syndrome yourself using folk and traditional medicine. A number of medications should only be prescribed by a professional doctor and he should be guided by the full clinical picture of the manifestations of PMS.

What the doctor can prescribe:

• Psychotropic substances. If the patient has a number of mental and emotional disorders.
• Sedatives. If the patient experiences an increased feeling of anxiety and apathy.
• Sedatives. If the patient has trouble sleeping and is emotionally unstable.
• Hormonal drugs. In order to normalize hormone imbalance.
• Diuretics. Necessary to normalize blood pressure.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs. Necessary in some cases as additional treatment.
• Homeopathic remedies. Help restore hormonal levels.

IMPORTANT: In addition to drug treatment, the doctor may prescribe a special diet and exercise, art therapy and sessions with a psychologist. General treatment, depending on the scale of the problem, lasts from 3 to 6 months. If you have a hormonal imbalance and want to get pregnant, you must clearly adjust your medication intake with your gynecologist so that conception occurs during the period of ovulation (and most importantly, that ovulation occurs as a result of proper treatment).

Treatment of premenstrual syndrome and pregnancy

Hormonal imbalance in women: treatment with drugs, Duphaston, Remens, Iodomarin

U Duphaston quite a wide range of applications. This is a common OC remedy that also helps get rid of diseases and dysfunction of the internal genital organs. Proper use of Duphaston will help normalize the level of progesterone in a woman’s blood. This hormone helps you get pregnant and get through the entire period well. As a rule, the period of taking Duphaston to get rid of hormonal imbalance is 2-6 months.

Remens refers to non-hormonal drugs. This is a homeopathic remedy based on herbal ingredients that helps regulate monthly menstruation, relieve a woman from the unpleasant symptoms of menopause and hormonal imbalance: mood swings, problems with blood pressure, appetite, weight gain, poor health and discharge.

As you know, in the human body the thyroid gland is the internal organ that is responsible for the production of necessary hormones. If the thyroid gland is “sick”, then this is fraught with hormonal imbalance for the woman. An important element such as iodine helps maintain the health of the gland. The lack of iodine in the body is quite easy to compensate with the help of the drug Iodomarin.

Hormonal imbalance: treatment with folk remedies - propolis, herbs, oregano, sage, red brush: recipes

If a person does not want to often resort to medications to treat hormonal imbalance, he can use traditional medicine:

• Propolis. Can be taken pure or replaced with tincture. It is good not only because it is able to regulate the production of hormones in the body, but also helps keep the entire body in good shape. It has a positive and gentle effect on the menstrual cycle, making periods regular and not painful. You should drink 20 drops of infusion diluted in water per day. In one or two doses.
• Collection of soothing herbs. Teas and infusions from these herbs help a woman restore her emotional and psychological state, improve the functioning of internal organs, strengthen sleep and appetite. Replace coffee and strong black tea with decoctions and infusions of soothing herbs. Drink them in the afternoon and at night. Add 1 tbsp to the drink. natural honey.
• Oregano . This plant is unique in that it has a positive effect on the functioning of the female body. Oregano brewed in tea or oregano tincture helps in the production of female sex hormones (progesterone, estrogen), as well as in the normalization of premenstrual and menstrual syndrome: eliminates painful periods, nagging pain in the abdomen and lower back, mood swings. You should drink oregano two to three times a day as a decoction. Add 1 tsp to the cup. natural honey.
• Sage. It not only has a calming property, which is extremely useful during the menstrual and premenstrual period. Sage helps keep the body in good shape, improve immunity and regulate all metabolic processes in the body. Sage is good for preparing medicinal tinctures with alcohol and regular teas with honey.
• Red brush. This remedy is good because it helps normalize hormonal levels by regulating the functioning of the endocrine and thyroid glands. A medicinal decoction should be made from the plant and drunk three times a day, half an hour before meals.

Treatment of hormonal imbalance using traditional medicine

Hormonal imbalance: how to stop hair loss, how to remove acne on the face?

Often, women experiencing hormonal changes experience such unpleasant consequences as deterioration of the condition of hair, skin and nails. In such cases, you should not despair. It is important to direct all your actions towards improving your health and correcting the situation.

What will help:

• Regulating sleep and rest patterns
• Proper and balanced nutrition
• Taking auxiliary medications
• Application of traditional medicine
• Consumption of vitamins and minerals

IMPORTANT: If you cannot cope with the problem on your own, it is important to contact a dermatologist, endocrinologist and gynecologist.

Vitamins for hormonal imbalance in women: for women's health, folic acid, for beauty, nails and hair

To help the body restore and normalize “healthy” hormone levels, women are often prescribed regular intake of folic acid. At its core, this drug is a water-soluble vitamin B9, which is extremely beneficial for the beauty and health of the female body.

The vitamin regulates all body systems and improves metabolism. As a result, better absorption of nutrients occurs, a person receives the necessary portion of vitamins and minerals, and the water-alkaline balance of the body is normalized. A well-functioning body and healthy internal organs (in particular, the thyroid gland) do not provoke hormonal imbalance.

What diet for hormonal imbalance?

A diet for hormonal imbalance involves a woman’s refusal to eat unhealthy foods:

• Sweet and carbonated drinks
• Fried food
• Spicy food
• Fatty food
• Foods high in starch
• Large amounts of sugar
• Large amounts of salt
• Alcohol
• Baking (sweet, yeast)

IMPORTANT: When eliminating hormonal imbalance, you need to eat vegetables and fruits in large quantities, drink a lot of water and herbal infusions. To speed up your metabolism, eat more often, but in small portions.

Is it possible to lose weight or gain weight due to hormonal imbalance?

Each body is individual and therefore it is impossible to say with confidence that during a hormonal imbalance a person rapidly loses or gains weight. If a person’s metabolism suffers due to an imbalance, this leads to impaired metabolism and obesity. Such completeness is a symptom of hormonal imbalance and requires treatment.

Can there be nausea, uterine bleeding, fever, chest pain, or an increase in hCG due to hormonal imbalance?

HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a hormone present in the body only of the woman who is pregnant, as it is produced by the placenta. In case of elevated hCG, you should take a pregnancy test to understand the nature of your hormonal imbalance. Additional symptoms: nausea, pain and bloody smear indicate problems with normal pregnancy.

Can hormonal imbalance go away on its own?

The hormonal balance should be restored on its own naturally. If after childbirth, miscarriage, abortion or menstruation you cannot return to normal, this indicates that you are experiencing another disease that requires treatment.

Video: “Myths about hormones”

Malfunctions of the endocrine system are no less dangerous than, for example, disruptions to the functioning of the cardiovascular or digestive system, because they can lead to such serious consequences as the development of diabetes mellitus, deterioration of vision... A general practitioner tells readers of the site how identify the first signs of hormonal disorders.

All diseases have different roles. One disease comes at once, with all its might, posing a daring challenge to the body: who will win?!

The other creeps up unnoticed and systematically torments: it either “bites” or lets go, gradually making our existence unbearable.

And the third walks with us hand in hand all our lives, influencing our character, worldview and quality of life along with genes and external factors.

Hiding under different masks, diseases often become elusive. It is especially difficult to recognize an endocrine disease (when the body's normal production of hormones is disrupted).

Often, people with such disorders are examined by a variety of specialists before getting to the right place, and, having become disillusioned with traditional medicine, self-medicate in vain.

Such patients come to the endocrinologist only when the disease has reached its apogee or has changed its face so much as a result of numerous health experiments that it is extremely difficult to diagnose and treat it.

Hormonal balance

Hormonal disorders do not always have specific symptoms. Often their manifestations are similar to a variety of ailments, and sometimes are perceived only as cosmetic defects.

Therefore, you need to know the warning signs, and if they appear, you should immediately seek qualified help.

It is better to exclude a dangerous pathology in a timely manner than to later pay with your health for your self-confidence and negligence.

What is the endocrine system?

In the body, there are many organs and individual cell clusters that are capable of producing hormones and participating in the endocrine regulation of vital functions.

The pituitary gland and hypothalamus are considered the most important. These glands are located in the brain and, according to their position, control all other organs of the endocrine system: thyroid and parathyroid glands, adrenal glands, gonads and pancreas.

Lesions of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland rarely manifest as isolated, specific symptoms. Usually the function of the endocrine glands under their control also suffers.

What to do?

Possible signs of hormonal imbalance

Hormonal balance

1. Losing weight due to increased appetite. Under the advertising slogan “If I eat, I lose weight!”, perhaps there is a person with an overactive thyroid gland.

In addition to weight loss, it is usually a concern causeless and prolonged increase in body temperature to 37-37.5 °C, interruptions in heart function, excessive sweating, tremor (shaking) of the fingers, sudden mood swings, nervousness, sleep disturbance.

As the disease progresses, sexual function is impaired.

Often what attracts attention is a constantly surprised look - goggle-eyed eyes. When the eyes are wide open, they shine and seem to bulge out: between the iris and eyelids, a strip of white sclera remains above and below.

2. Obesity can be not only a problem of poor nutrition and physical inactivity. Obesity accompanies many endocrinological disorders.

If adipose tissue is deposited evenly throughout the body, appetite is either unchanged or slightly reduced, and it’s worrying dry skin, weakness, lethargy, constant drowsiness, hair loss and brittleness, then we can assume a decrease in thyroid function.

Such people have chilliness, decreased body temperature and blood pressure, hoarseness, periodic constipation.

Hormonal balance

5. Changes in appearance are an early sign of acromegaly. Facial features become rough: the brow ridges, cheekbones, and lower jaw increase.

The lips “grow”, the tongue becomes so large that the bite is disrupted.

This condition develops in adults with excessive formation of growth hormone - somatotropin, which is produced in the hypothalamus.

Happening rapid growth of hands and feet. A person is forced to change shoes very often.

Complaints about numbness in the limbs, joint pain, hoarseness, impaired sexual function. The skin becomes thick, oily, and increased hair growth is noted.

6. Visual impairment may also be a consequence of pathology of the endocrine system. Rapid and persistent deterioration of vision, accompanied by persistent headaches, is a reason to suspect a pituitary tumor.

In this case, a characteristic symptom is loss of the temporal fields of vision; other signs of hormonal regulation disorders mentioned above often develop.

7. Itchy skin should be a reason to check your blood sugar levels and may be an early sign diabetes mellitus

In this case, itching more often occurs in the perineum (which forces you to consult a gynecologist or dermatovenerologist).

Appears thirst, dry mouth, the amount of urine increases and urination becomes more frequent.

Furunculosis becomes a common disease, wounds and scratches heal very slowly, weakness and fatigue gradually develop.

Weight can fluctuate both in the direction of obesity and in the direction of weight loss, depending on the form of the disease and the constitution of the person.

Without special therapy, endocrine diseases gradually progress and, without causing much concern in the initial stages, manifest themselves with severe consequences in the future.

You can turn a blind eye to sweating, changes in body weight, and excess hair growth for a long time, but what to do when these disorders develop into infertility or result in severe heart failure, stroke or heart attack, or an inoperable tumor?

And how many cases of diabetes are diagnosed only when a patient is admitted to hospital in a coma?!

But just a little vigilance and attention to your own health is enough to prevent all these consequences.

Modern diagnosis of hormonal disorders includes a wide range of examinations. Sometimes it is enough for a doctor to look at a patient to make a diagnosis.

In some cases, it is necessary to carry out a lot of laboratory and instrumental studies, including determination of the level of hormones and their metabolites in the blood, functional stress tests, X-ray and ultrasound diagnostics, computed tomography.

Many of the endocrine diseases can be completely cured if treated in a timely manner; others require constant hormone replacement therapy; and others may require surgical treatment.

Be more attentive to the health of yourself and your loved ones. In most cases, with early diagnosis and properly selected treatment, it is possible to control or completely cure many endocrine diseases.

Be healthy!

Natalya DOLGOPOLOVA,
general practitioner

A medical specialist who tests hormones and treats related diseases in a person is called an endocrinologist. His responsibilities include diagnosis and treatment of various malfunctions of the endocrine glands. The endocrinologist also develops measures to prevent hormonal disorders for each individual patient.

Features of endocrinology

There are quite a lot of endocrine glands. These include, for example, the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, hypothalamus and others. Each of them produces its own hormone(s).

Few people know, but these substances can also be produced by some organs of the human body that are not related to the endocrine glands. For example, brain, heart, liver.

What doctors deal with hormones? Depending on the age and gender of the patient, he should contact a physician with a certain specialization.

Pediatric endocrinologists treat children and adolescents; they solve the following problems:

• correction for growth disorders;
• therapy for pathologies of sexual development;
• diabetes treatment;
• fight against excess weight;
• eliminating teenage skin problems.

Women with hormonal imbalances should contact an endocrinologist-gynecologist. This specialist treats infertility, menopause, mastopathy, delayed menstruation, etc.

For brain tumors of any etiology, gigantism and acromegaly, diseases of the adrenal glands, the patient should be treated by a neuroendocrinologist. Various disorders of the thyroid gland are treated by a thyroidologist. In addition to the listed specialists, geneticists, endocrinologist surgeons, and diabetologists deal with problems with the endocrine glands.

The main glands and their purpose

The endocrine glands do not have excretory ducts; they secrete active substances directly into the blood. They directly regulate metabolic and other vital processes in the body:

1. Pituitary. Located at the base of the brain. Produces substances that control the functioning of other endocrine glands and affect the size of internal organs and bone growth.
2. Thymus. In a child, this organ is large. During puberty and throughout life, it gradually decreases. It secretes the hormone thymosin, which is responsible for the maturation of immune cells.
3. Thyroid. Located on the neck, it produces substances that control metabolic processes.
4. Parathyroid glands. They produce a hormone responsible for the rate of calcium and phosphorus metabolism. Works in conjunction with the thyroid gland.
5. Pancreas. Directly participates in digestion, releasing its juice into the intestines. In addition, it produces the most important hormone insulin, which controls blood glucose levels.
6. Adrenal glands. Responsible for the production of hormones that affect many processes in the human body and the functioning of nerve cells.
7. Sex glands. They influence reproductive function by secreting substances that control the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

In various religious movements, a mystical role is attributed to the pineal gland (epiphysis). This is a small gland located in the midbrain. However, at the moment it has not been studied enough.

Neuroendocrinologist

Most neuroendocrine diseases are associated with pathological processes occurring in the hypothalamic-pituitary region. The most common type of lesion is adenoma. In fact, it is a benign tumor; in rare cases, the disease takes a malignant form. A neuroendocrinologist treats pituitary adenomas and the pathologies they provoke. In this case, both increased production of hormones of this gland and their sharp decrease can be observed.

A neuroendocrinologist should be contacted for acromegaly, prolactinoma, and Itsenko-Cushing's disease. Typically these diseases are accompanied by the following symptoms:

• decreased libido;
• menstrual irregularities;
• obesity;
• severe muscle weakness;
• proliferation of cartilage tissue.

After a patient presents with such symptoms, the neuroendocrinologist will send him for examination to determine the level of hormones produced by the pituitary gland and identify possible pathological enlargement of the gland. Depending on the test results, the doctor prescribes treatment. As a rule, it consists of medication to normalize the level of pituitary hormones. In the presence of an adenoma and significant growth of the gland, surgical intervention may be required.

Thyroidologist

This specialist treats the thyroid gland. This endocrine gland is responsible for many processes occurring in the human body. It produces specific hormones that contain iodine. If the thyroid gland malfunctions, serious health problems can begin. First of all, there is a strong decrease in immunity.

With hypothyroidism, the patient suffers from obesity, skin problems (flaking, swelling), and decreased mental activity. The person becomes sluggish and suffers from constipation. Hyperthyroidism is accompanied by increased sweating, dilated eye pupils, insomnia, irritability, high blood pressure, tachycardia, and increased appetite.

All these symptoms should force the patient to seek help from a thyroidologist. Usually a general practitioner refers you to this specialist, but if you suspect a pathology of the thyroid gland, you can visit a thyroidologist yourself. He will prescribe an ultrasound of the organ and blood donation for hormones. As a rule, treatment consists of drug adjustment of the thyroid gland throughout life. Unfortunately, thyroiditis cannot be completely cured. Surgical interventions are rarely resorted to when the thyroid gland is significantly enlarged.

Gynecologist-endocrinologist

This is a specialist who diagnoses and treats any hormonal imbalances in a woman’s body. He checks the functioning of the ovaries, the ratio of progesterone, estrogen and testosterone in the patient’s blood.

A visit to a gynecologist-endocrinologist should be mandatory if, for example, a teenage girl experiences a delay in menstruation. Often the first hormonal imbalance in women occurs in childhood. Therefore, parents should closely monitor the child’s health in order to promptly eliminate possible disturbances in the functioning of the ovaries at an early stage.

The following symptoms are the basis for a woman to contact a gynecologist-endocrinologist:

• discomfort during sexual intercourse in the lower abdomen;
• burning when urinating;
• discharge with an unpleasant odor.

In addition to a gynecological examination, the doctor will prescribe a blood test for hormones and an ultrasound examination of the ovaries. In addition, he will draw up a menstrual calendar and check the patient’s height and weight to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment of ovarian dysfunction can be carried out conservatively or surgically. Surgical intervention will be required if the pathological process is advanced. In the early stages, adjusting the hormonal balance may be sufficient to significantly improve women's health.

Forecast

In most cases, with a timely visit to the doctor, pathologies of the hormonal system can be dealt with by undergoing a simple course of medication. In some situations, endocrine disorders appear against the background of other serious pathologies. Therefore, before prescribing therapy, the doctor must examine the patient for underlying diseases that can provoke hormonal changes.

Without treating identified disorders in the functioning of other organs and systems, it will not be possible to restore normal secretion of the endocrine glands. For example, if a decrease in androgenic hormones occurred due to a sexually transmitted disease that caused inflammation of the genital organs, then, first of all, you need to focus your efforts on healing from this particular disease. Typically, your doctor will treat the infection with antibacterial medications. And the prescription of various hormonal drugs will be carried out as necessary. Often, eliminating the underlying disease allows you to restore the normal functioning of the endocrine glands without resorting to additional treatment.

Hormonal stability is one of the most important conditions for maintaining a woman’s health. At the same time, the endocrine system is a delicate apparatus, extremely sensitive to any external influences. The cause of hormonal imbalance can be lifestyle changes (for example, diet), emotional stress, infectious diseases, and taking certain medications. In addition, the work of the endocrine glands has its own natural specificity at certain points in life: at different stages of the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, after childbirth, during breastfeeding or during menopause. In order to consult a doctor on time and minimize problems occurring in the body, it is necessary to monitor hormonal imbalances. To do this, a woman must know how events of this kind affect her health, appearance and mood. Seven main signs can signal hormonal instability.

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Acne

Contrary to popular belief, the presence of acne (acne) is by no means characteristic only of adolescence. Disruption of the sebaceous glands, accompanied by the appearance of comedones and inflamed acne, is a consequence of an imbalance between male and female hormones in the body. This phenomenon is associated with both too active androgen production and estrogen deficiency. The direct “culprits” may be pathologies of the endocrine glands (for example, Cushing’s syndrome or polycystic ovary syndrome), inflammatory diseases of the genital organs. Acne is often triggered by natural or artificially caused changes in hormonal status: after an abortion or stopping taking oral contraceptives, during pregnancy or breastfeeding. About 70% of women note the regular occurrence of single pimples 2-7 days before menstruation.

Change in hair growth rate

An imbalance of male and female hormones affects the activity of hair follicles and can lead to accelerated male-pattern hair growth (hirsutism). This symptom is typical, for example, for women during menopause. In some types of polycystic ovary syndrome, the combination of facial hair growth and acne is a diagnostic sign.

Menstrual irregularities

Normally, the menstrual cycle ranges from 21 to 35 days. The discharge usually lasts no more than 7 days, its volume is 20-80 ml. Deviation from these values ​​– both in timing and in the number of allocations – is considered a violation. Endocrine causes of menstrual cycle disruptions may lie not only in the production of sex hormones. For example, with hyperthyroidism (hyperfunction of the thyroid gland), irregular and painful menstruation and scant discharge are observed. Type 1 diabetes mellitus often contributes to the formation of a too long menstrual cycle, and also provokes an early onset of menopause. Irregularity of menstruation is also possible with pathologies of the pituitary gland.

Sudden weight changes

Rapid weight loss accompanied by increased appetite may indicate the development of decompensated diabetes or hyperthyroidism. Weight gain is associated with obesity (due to disturbances in insulin metabolism), with the accumulation of large volumes of fluid due to disturbances in the functioning of the thyroid gland.

Increased sweating during sleep

In women during menopause, night sweats are one of the symptoms of hormonal imbalance characteristic of menopause. In younger patients, such a disorder may indicate the onset of hyperthyroidism.

Constant fatigue

With pathologies of the thyroid gland, patients complain of rapid physical and mental fatigue, trembling throughout the body, difficulty performing actions that require minimal stress (for example, when climbing stairs or carrying a small load). However, similar symptoms are observed with other endocrine problems (Cushing's syndrome, insulin metabolism disorders).