What does the endocrinology department primarily treat?

Generally, the endocrinology department primarily treats thyroid diseases, glucose metabolism disorders, bone metabolism disorders, obesity-related diseases, adrenal diseases, etc. The details are as follows:

1. Thyroid Diseases

These include hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism results from excessive secretion of thyroid hormones, often causing symptoms such as palpitations and excessive sweating. Hypothyroidism is caused by insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones, manifesting as fatigue and cold intolerance. The department confirms the diagnosis by testing thyroid hormone levels and treats the condition by regulating hormone secretion or supplementing hormones.

2. Glucose Metabolism Disorders

Diabetes mellitus, characterized by insulin secretion deficiency or functional defects, is marked primarily by elevated blood glucose levels, which may lead to symptoms like polydipsia (excessive thirst) and polyphagia (excessive hunger). The endocrinology department diagnoses the condition by testing blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels and manages blood glucose through medications, dietary control, and other methods to maintain metabolic stability.

3. Bone Metabolism Disorders

For example, osteoporosis is closely related to endocrine disorders. Decreased secretion of sex hormones can lead to bone loss and reduced bone strength, increasing the risk of fractures. Patients may experience symptoms such as back pain. The department determines the condition through bone density testing and treats it by supplementing calcium and regulating hormones.

4. Obesity-Related Diseases

Some cases of obesity are associated with endocrine disorders, such as insulin resistance and abnormal glucocorticoids, which can cause excessive fat accumulation. Patients may have concurrent metabolic abnormalities, increasing the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, etc. The endocrinology department identifies the causes by testing hormone levels and formulates weight-loss plans.

5. Adrenal Diseases

The adrenal glands secrete various hormones, and their dysfunction can cause a series of diseases, such as adrenal hyperplasia, which can affect water and salt metabolism and glucose metabolism. The department diagnoses and treats these conditions by testing adrenal hormones and related metabolites.

In addition, the endocrinology department also treats pituitary diseases. If related discomfort symptoms occur, timely medical examination is necessary for early intervention.