Endocrine Disorder Therapies

The endocrine system is comprised of a system of glands that produce hormones that help control many vital body functions. The endocrine system influences how the body converts calories into energy; how the heart beats, the development of tissues and bones, sexual reproduction, and much more.  

The eight main endocrine glands are the adrenal gland, pituitary gland, pancreas, thyroid, hypothalamus, pineal, parathyroid and the reproductive glands – ovaries in women and testes in men.

Endocrine disorders or disease can develop when the balance of hormones in the bloodstream is too high or too low.  The most common endocrine disorders arise from problems with the pituitary, pancreas, thyroid or adrenal glands. The most common endocrine disorder in North America is diabetes.  There are many others including Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease, Grave’s disease, hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism. These disorders affect many areas of the body and left untreated can cause a variety of complications.

Symptoms of endocrine disorders depend on the specific area of the endocrine system affected.   Common symptoms include weight changes, gastrointestinal problems, anxiety, fatigue, and weakness.  Blood and urine tests to check hormone levels can help determine endocrine disorders. 

Treatment for endocrine disorders often involves synthetic hormones. Correct diagnosis is complicated as adjusting one hormone level may throw off another.

If you suspect you have an endocrine disorder, consult an endocrinologist or naturopathic physician for diagnosis and a correct treatment plan.