Endocrinologists are doctors specialized in diagnosing and treating disorders related to endocrine glands and the hormones secreted by these glands. Endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the blood. With proper treatment, endocrinologists help to restore the hormonal balance in the body.

Your family physician may ask you to see an endocrinologist if the following symptoms occur: excessive sweating, increased blood glucose, high blood pressure, menstrual problems, acne outbreak, delay in puberty onset, male pattern of hair in women, infertility, weight gain or loss, muscle weakness, bone fragility, developmental delays in children, abnormal bone development, and tiredness.

Endocrinologists treat diseases of hormonal imbalance. One can see them for diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, concerns during menopause, hormonal imbalance in women, cancer of endocrine glands, overactive or underactive thyroid and parathyroid gland, Cushing’s syndrome, infertility, erectile dysfunction, diseases related to bone metabolism, obesity, and polycystic ovarian disease.

To become an endocrinologist one must complete the bachelor’s degree programme of five and half years which confers MBBS degree and later study endocrinology for two more years as a specialization, to become a MD in endocrinology. They must be thorough in interpretation of blood tests, X rays and other radiology reports to make an accurate diagnosis

PCOD or polycystic ovarian disease is an endocrine disorder commonly seen in women between ages 18 to 35. Irregular menstrual cycles, acne, weight gain, infertility, excess male sex hormones, anxiety and excess growth of hair in arm pits and on face are the common signs of PCOD. An endocrinologist can treat a PCOD disease after proper diagnosis of hormonal levels and ultrasonography report.