Endocrine system

I finally got hold of an endocrinologist in Pretoria. The earliest appointment I could get with her is on 3 March, but I think the wait is worthwhile. Here are the details if somebody is also interested: Dr Mary Seeber (012 343 0970)

What is the endocrine system?

The endocrine system is a complex group of glands. Glands are 0rgans that make hormones. These are substances that help to control activities in your body. Different types of hormones control reproduction, metabolism (food burning and waste elimination), and growth and development. Hormones also control the way you respond to your surroundings, and they help to provide the proper amount of energy and nutrition your body needs to function. The glands that make up the endocrine system include the thyroid, parathyroid, pancreas, ovaries, testes, adrenal, pituitary and hypothalamus.

What is an endocrinologist?

An endocrinologist is a specially trained doctor. Endocrinologists diagnose diseases that affect your glands. They know how to treat conditions that are often complex and involve many systems within your body. Your primary care doctor refers you to an endocrinologist when you have a problem with your endocrine system.

What do endocrinologists do?

Endocrinologists are trained to diagnose and treat hormone imbalances and problems by helping to restore the normal balance of hormones in your system. They take care of many conditions including:

* diabetes

* thyroid diseases
* metabolic disorders
* over or under production of hormones
* menopause
* osteoporosis
* hypertension
* cholesterol (lipid) disorders
* infertility
* lack of growth (short stature)
* cancers of the endocrine glands