An Endocrinologist is a specially trained medical professional who is qualified to diagnose and treat medical conditions that affect endocrine glands. They also diagnose and treat hormonal imbalances in the endocrine glands that consist of the thyroid, adrenal, ovaries, testes, pancreas, and pituitary.

What are the qualifications of an Endocrinologist?

A 5-year medical degree [MBBS] that is recognized by the General Medical Council and a 2-year foundation course of general training are the basic requirements for an individual to be a doctor. However, following are the specialties or extra qualifications required to be an Endocrinologist:

Post Graduate Diploma in Endocrinology
FRCP - Endocrinology
MSc. - Endocrinology & Diabetes
MCh - Endocrine Surgery
CCT - Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus
Diplomate in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism
DM - Endocrinology
DNB - Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism
MRCP (UK)
Fellow of American College of Endocrinology(FACE)
MD - (Medicine - Endocrinology)
PhD - Endocrinology & Metabolism

Do hypothyroidism occur in newborns?

Hypothyroidism occurs in about 1 in 4,000 newborns. It may be transient for a few days or a few hours. It occurs due to the intake of antithyroid drugs by the mother during pregnancy. The majority of neonatal hypothyroidism leads to permanent hypothyroidism.

What medical conditions can an Endocrinologist treat?

An Endocrinologist can diagnose and treat the following medical conditions and disorders:

Adrenal disorders
Hypoglycemia
Metabolic syndrome
Grave’s disease
Addison’s disease
Low testosterone
Acromegaly
Hypothyroidism
Goiters
Turner syndrome
Obesity
Diabetes
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Does an Endocrinologist treat osteoporosis?

Yes, an Endocrinologist can diagnose and prescribe the appropriate medication for osteoporosis. Most of the females whose age group is above 50 may suffer from osteoporosis. This occurs after menopause in females due to the decrease in estrogen levels. If the symptoms cannot subside then the Endocrinologist will refer to the orthopedic consultant for advanced therapies.

What are the nutritional recommendations for diabetic adults?

If an individual is diabetic or prone to diabetic, then one should follow nutritional recommendations such as:

Low carbohydrate diet
Fructose is preferred over sucrose or starch
Protein diet
Minimal fat foods consumption
Sodium intake
Dietary fiber, vegetables, whole grains, fruits, etc.
Non-nutrient sweeteners
Vitamins and antioxidants are not advised

Can increased calcium levels in the body be harmful?

Yes, increased calcium levels in the body are harmful. This leads to kidney stone formation, disabilities of bone, pancreatic tumors, and constipation. The average amount of calcium intake should be 1,000 mg per day for women below 50 years and men below 70 years.