What is endocrinology?

Endocrinology is the medical specialty concerned with hormones, their effects on the body’s functioning (the metabolism) and related diseases. Hormones are secreted by various glands, including the pituitary gland, thyroid, adrenal glands and others. Many diseases, such as type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, growth disorders, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and weight disorders are the result of hormonal disorders.

How to make an appointment with an endocrinologist

Before making an appointment with an endocrinologist and in order to ensure that costs will be reimbursed under standard health care coverage, you should consult your GP who will decide whether or not to refer you to an endocrinologist.

What does an endocrinologist do during a consultation?

In the initial consultation, the endocrinologist will ask you about any symptoms, including unexplained weight loss or gain, fatigue, pain or mood swings. Patients are advised to bring along any test results (blood tests, X-rays, etc.) and available medical reports in order to avoid repeating any unnecessary examinations and to simplify diagnosis. If need be, the endocrinologist may request additional tests such as specific blood tests, X-rays or punctures.

What do endocrinology treatments entail?

Treatment depends on the type of hormonal disorder. In the case of hypothyroidism, for example, the hormone deficiency can be treated with a daily intake of a thyroid hormone replacement drug. Hyperthyroidism may also be treated with medication or require surgery.

Treating different types of diabetes

There are three main types of diabetes:

• Type 1 diabetes, which appears in childhood
• Gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy and often disappears after childbirth
• Type 2 diabetes, the most common, which appears after the age of 40.

Diabetes is linked to the lack of the effect of the hormone, insulin, and treatment involves adapting the body’s supply. If insufficient insulin is produced to normalise blood sugar and glucose levels, medication or the regular injection of insulin may be necessary.

Elsan treats these pathologies using new continuous-glucose-monitoring technologies such as glycemic Holter or subcutaneous insulin pumps.