What are the main components of the endocrine system. How do endocrine glands regulate bodily functions. What are common endocrine disorders and their treatments. When should you consult an endocrinologist for diabetes management. How does stress affect the endocrine system and overall health.

The Endocrine System: An Overview of Glands and Hormones

The endocrine system is a complex network of glands that produce and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. These hormones act as chemical messengers, regulating various bodily functions and maintaining homeostasis. Understanding the intricacies of this system is crucial for overall health and well-being.

The major endocrine glands in the human body include:

• Pituitary gland
• Thyroid gland
• Parathyroid glands
• Adrenal glands
• Pancreas
• Reproductive glands (ovaries in females, testes in males)
• Hypothalamus

Each of these glands plays a unique role in maintaining bodily functions and overall health. For instance, the pituitary gland, often referred to as the “master gland,” controls the function of other endocrine glands and produces hormones that influence growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

The Role of Endocrinologists in Diagnosing and Treating Hormonal Imbalances

Endocrinologists are medical specialists who focus on diagnosing and treating disorders related to the endocrine system. These highly trained professionals undergo extensive education and training to gain expertise in this complex field.

Why might someone need to consult an endocrinologist? Endocrinologists are often called upon to address a wide range of health issues, including:

• Diabetes management
• Thyroid disorders
• Adrenal gland dysfunction
• Osteoporosis and bone metabolism issues
• Reproductive health concerns
• Growth disorders
• Metabolic disorders

These specialists employ various diagnostic tools and treatments to help patients achieve hormonal balance and improve their overall health.

Diabetes Management: When to Consult an Endocrinologist

Diabetes is a complex metabolic disorder that often requires specialized care. While primary care physicians can manage many cases of diabetes, there are situations where consulting an endocrinologist becomes necessary.

When should a person with diabetes seek the expertise of an endocrinologist? Consider the following scenarios:

• Newly diagnosed diabetes patients who need guidance on management strategies
• Cases where diabetes becomes difficult to control despite current treatment
• Patients using insulin pumps or multiple daily injections
• Those experiencing complications related to diabetes
• Pregnant women with pre-existing diabetes or gestational diabetes

Endocrinologists specializing in diabetes can provide tailored treatment plans, advanced monitoring techniques, and education on lifestyle modifications to improve glycemic control and overall health outcomes.

Common Endocrine Disorders and Their Impact on Health

Endocrine disorders can have far-reaching effects on an individual’s health and quality of life. Some of the most prevalent endocrine disorders include:

Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid dysfunction can manifest as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). These conditions can affect metabolism, energy levels, weight, and mental health.

Adrenal Disorders

Disorders of the adrenal glands, such as Addison’s disease or Cushing’s syndrome, can impact stress response, blood pressure regulation, and metabolism.

Pituitary Disorders

Abnormalities in pituitary function can lead to a range of issues, including growth disorders, reproductive problems, and hormonal imbalances affecting multiple body systems.

Metabolic Disorders

Conditions like diabetes and metabolic syndrome involve disruptions in the body’s ability to process and utilize energy from food, leading to various health complications.

Understanding these disorders and their symptoms is crucial for early detection and effective management. Endocrinologists play a vital role in diagnosing and treating these conditions, often working in collaboration with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.

The Endocrine System and Stress: A Complex Interplay

Stress has a profound impact on the endocrine system, triggering a cascade of hormonal responses that can affect various bodily functions. The relationship between stress and the endocrine system is bidirectional, with hormonal imbalances potentially exacerbating stress responses.

How does stress affect the endocrine system? When the body perceives stress, it activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to the release of stress hormones such as cortisol. While this response is essential for short-term adaptation to stressors, chronic stress can disrupt the delicate balance of the endocrine system.

The effects of chronic stress on the endocrine system can include:

• Altered thyroid function
• Disrupted reproductive hormone balance
• Impaired insulin sensitivity
• Increased risk of osteoporosis
• Compromised immune function

Managing stress through various techniques can help maintain endocrine health and overall well-being. Some effective stress-reduction strategies include:

1. Regular exercise
2. Mindfulness and meditation practices
3. Adequate sleep
4. Balanced nutrition
5. Social support and connections

Incorporating these practices into daily life can help mitigate the negative effects of stress on the endocrine system and promote overall health.

Advancements in Endocrinology: New Treatments and Technologies

The field of endocrinology is constantly evolving, with new treatments and technologies emerging to improve patient care and outcomes. Some notable advancements include:

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems

These devices provide real-time glucose readings, allowing for more precise diabetes management and reducing the need for frequent finger-prick tests.

Artificial Pancreas Systems

Combining CGM technology with insulin pumps, these systems automate insulin delivery based on glucose levels, improving glycemic control for people with diabetes.

Targeted Hormone Therapies

Advances in molecular biology have led to the development of more specific and effective hormone replacement therapies for various endocrine disorders.

Gene Therapy

Researchers are exploring gene therapy approaches to treat certain endocrine disorders by correcting underlying genetic defects.

Telemedicine in Endocrinology

The integration of telemedicine has improved access to endocrine care, particularly for patients in remote areas or those with mobility limitations.

These advancements offer new hope for patients with endocrine disorders, potentially improving treatment outcomes and quality of life.

Nutrition and the Endocrine System: Maintaining Hormonal Balance

Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the endocrine system. Certain nutrients are essential for hormone production, while others can influence hormone balance and receptor sensitivity.

What dietary factors can impact endocrine health? Consider the following:

• Adequate protein intake for hormone synthesis
• Essential fatty acids for hormone production and cell signaling
• Micronutrients such as iodine, selenium, and zinc for thyroid function
• Vitamin D for calcium metabolism and bone health
• Fiber for regulating blood sugar and hormone levels

A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can support optimal endocrine function. Conversely, excessive consumption of processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats may disrupt hormonal balance and contribute to endocrine disorders.

Some specific dietary recommendations for endocrine health include:

1. Incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds
2. Consuming adequate amounts of fiber from whole grains, legumes, and vegetables
3. Including sources of vitamin D, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods
4. Moderating caffeine and alcohol intake, which can affect hormone levels
5. Staying hydrated to support optimal endocrine function

Working with a registered dietitian or nutritionist in conjunction with an endocrinologist can help develop personalized dietary strategies to support endocrine health and manage specific disorders.

The Endocrine System and Aging: Challenges and Adaptations

As the body ages, the endocrine system undergoes various changes that can impact overall health and well-being. Understanding these age-related changes is crucial for maintaining hormonal balance and addressing potential health concerns.

How does aging affect the endocrine system? Some common age-related changes include:

• Decreased production of certain hormones, such as growth hormone and testosterone
• Altered sensitivity to hormones in target tissues
• Changes in the circadian rhythm of hormone secretion
• Increased risk of certain endocrine disorders, such as diabetes and thyroid dysfunction

These changes can contribute to various age-related health issues, including:

1. Decreased muscle mass and bone density
2. Changes in body composition and metabolism
3. Alterations in sleep patterns and energy levels
4. Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
5. Cognitive changes and mood fluctuations

While some age-related changes in the endocrine system are inevitable, there are strategies to promote healthy aging and maintain hormonal balance:

• Regular physical activity, including both aerobic exercise and strength training
• Maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support endocrine health
• Getting adequate sleep and managing stress levels
• Regular health check-ups and screenings to detect and address endocrine issues early
• Considering hormone replacement therapy under medical supervision when appropriate

Working closely with healthcare providers, including endocrinologists, can help individuals navigate the challenges of aging and maintain optimal endocrine function throughout life.

Environmental Factors and Endocrine Disruptors: Protecting Hormonal Health

In recent years, there has been growing concern about the impact of environmental factors on the endocrine system. Certain chemicals and substances, known as endocrine disruptors, can interfere with hormone production, metabolism, and action, potentially leading to adverse health effects.

What are common sources of endocrine disruptors? These substances can be found in various everyday items and environments, including:

• Plastics and food packaging materials
• Pesticides and herbicides
• Personal care products and cosmetics
• Industrial chemicals and pollutants
• Certain pharmaceuticals and their residues in water supplies

Exposure to endocrine disruptors has been linked to various health issues, including:

1. Reproductive problems and fertility issues
2. Developmental disorders in children
3. Certain types of cancer
4. Metabolic disorders, including obesity and diabetes
5. Thyroid dysfunction

To minimize exposure to endocrine disruptors and protect hormonal health, consider the following strategies:

• Choose organic produce when possible to reduce pesticide exposure
• Use glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic for food storage
• Opt for natural personal care products and cosmetics
• Filter drinking water to remove potential contaminants
• Avoid using non-stick cookware and plastic containers in the microwave
• Read product labels and avoid those containing known endocrine disruptors

While it may be challenging to eliminate all exposure to endocrine disruptors, being aware of potential sources and taking steps to reduce exposure can help protect endocrine health and overall well-being.

The Future of Endocrinology: Emerging Research and Potential Breakthroughs

The field of endocrinology continues to evolve rapidly, with ongoing research offering new insights into the complexities of the endocrine system and potential treatments for various disorders. Some exciting areas of current and future research include:

Precision Medicine in Endocrinology

Researchers are exploring ways to tailor treatments based on an individual’s genetic profile, lifestyle factors, and specific hormonal imbalances. This personalized approach could lead to more effective and targeted therapies for endocrine disorders.

Gut Microbiome and Endocrine Health

Growing evidence suggests a strong link between the gut microbiome and endocrine function. Understanding this relationship could lead to novel approaches for managing conditions like diabetes and obesity.

Artificial Intelligence in Endocrine Care

AI and machine learning technologies are being developed to assist in diagnosing endocrine disorders, predicting treatment outcomes, and personalizing patient care.

Stem Cell Therapies

Researchers are exploring the potential of stem cells to regenerate or replace damaged endocrine tissues, offering hope for conditions like type 1 diabetes.

Endocrine-Immune System Interactions

Understanding the complex interplay between the endocrine and immune systems could lead to new treatments for autoimmune endocrine disorders and other related conditions.

These emerging areas of research hold promise for improving our understanding of endocrine disorders and developing more effective treatments. As the field continues to advance, patients with endocrine disorders may benefit from increasingly sophisticated and personalized care options.

In conclusion, the endocrine system plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being. From regulating metabolism and growth to influencing mood and reproductive function, hormones impact nearly every aspect of human physiology. Understanding the complexities of this system, recognizing the signs of potential disorders, and working closely with healthcare providers, including endocrinologists, can help individuals maintain optimal endocrine health throughout their lives. As research in the field continues to advance, we can look forward to new insights and innovative treatments that will further improve the management of endocrine disorders and enhance quality of life for those affected by them.

What Is an Endocrinologist? What Does a Diabetes Doctor Do?

Endocrinologists are doctors who specialize in glands and the hormones they make. They deal with metabolism, or all the biochemical processes that make your body work, including how your body changes food into energy and how it grows.

They may work with adults or kids. When they specialize in treating children, they’re called pediatric endocrinologists.

What Do Endocrinologists Do?

They cover a lot of ground, diagnosing and treating conditions that affect your:

• Adrenals, glands that sit on top of your kidneys and help to control things like your blood pressure, metabolism, stress response, and sex hormones
• Bone metabolism, like osteoporosis
• Cholesterol
• Hypothalamus, the part of your brain that controls body temperature, hunger, and thirst
• Pancreas, which makes insulin and other substances for digestion
• Parathyroids, small glands in your neck that control the calcium in your blood
• Pituitary, a pea-sized gland at the base of your brain that keeps your hormones balanced
• Reproductive glands (gonads): ovaries in women, testes in men
• Thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that controls your metabolism, energy, and brain growth and development

Training

Endocrinologists are licensed internal medicine doctors who have passed an additional certification exam.

They go to college for 4 years, then medical school for 4 more years. Afterward, they work in hospitals and clinics as residents for 3 years to get experience treating people. They’ll spend another 2 or 3 years training specifically in endocrinology.

The whole process usually takes at least 10 years.

Where to Find One

An endocrinologist can work in:

• A medical practice with other endocrinologists
• A group with different kinds of doctors
• Hospitals

You can search for one on the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists website.

Some don’t see patients. They may work in universities or medical schools, where they teach medical students and residents or do research.

When to See an Endocrinologist for Diabetes

Your regular doctor can treat diabetes, but they might refer you to an endocrinologist when:

• You’re brand new to diabetes and need to learn how to manage it.
• They don’t have a lot of experience treating diabetes.
• You take a lot of shots or use an insulin pump.
• Your diabetes has gotten tough to manage, or your treatment isn’t working.
• You have complications from diabetes.

You can always ask to go to an endocrinologist, too, even though your doctor doesn’t suggest it first. When you see one, you’ll still need to visit your primary doctor as well. They’ll work together.

Appointments With Your Diabetes Doctor

Your endocrinologist will ask you about how you feel, what you’re doing to manage your diabetes, and any trouble you’re having.

Take your blood glucose journal or logs with you, and let your endocrinologist know what’s been going on with you. What’s changed since the last time you saw them?

• Symptoms
• Eating differently
• Working out more or less
• Been sick lately
• Started taking any medicines, vitamins, or supplements

Chances are they’ll want to check your blood pressure and your feet and test your blood glucose, urine, and cholesterol.

If you take insulin, you should probably see your diabetes doctor every 3 or 4 months. Otherwise, you can go a little longer between visits, every 4 to 6 months. You may have to go more often when your diabetes isn’t under control, you have complications, or you have new symptoms or they get worse.

10 Ways to Stop Stress Now

Images:

1)    Thinkstock / Fuse
2)    Thinkstock / George Doyle / Stockbyte
3)    Thinkstock /atokic/ iStock
4)    Getty / Portra Images
5)    Getty / Portra Images
6)    Getty /mother image / The Image Bank
7)    WebMD
8)    Ariwasabi / iStock / 360
9)    Thomas Pullicino / iStock / 360
10)  Thinkstock / Purestock
11)  Spotmatik / iStock / 360

SOURCES:

Sketchley-Kaye, K. Nutritional Neurosicence, November 2011.

Thompson, C. Landscape and Urban Planning, April 15, 2012.

Kraft, T. Psychological Science, Nov. 13, 2012. 

Chen, M.  International Journal of Nursing Practice, Nov. 15, 2013.

University of Maryland Medical Center: “Lavender.”

Thoma, M. PLoS One, published online Aug. 5, 2013.

Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide: “Relaxation Techniques: Breath control helps quell errant stress response.”

American Heart Association: “Four Ways to Deal with Stress.”

University of Rochester Medical Center: “Journaling for Mental Health. “

CDC: “Coping With Stress.”

Townsend, S. Social Psychological & Personality Science, 2012. 

Anxiety and Depression Association of America: “Exercise for Stress and Anxiety.”

Pituitary Gland Disorder Causes & Treatments

What Is Hypopituitarism?

Hypopituitarism is a condition in which your pituitary gland (a small gland at the base of the brain) doesn’t make one or more of its hormones, or not enough of them. This condition may be the result of disease in the pituitary or hypothalamus (a part of the brain that contains hormones that control the pituitary gland). When there is low or no production of all the pituitary hormones, the condition is called panhypopituitarism. This condition may affect both children or adults.

The pituitary gland sends signals to other glands, for example the thyroid gland, to make hormones, such as thyroid hormone. The hormones made by the pituitary gland and other glands have a big impact on bodily functions, such as growth, reproduction, blood pressure, and metabolism. When one or more of these hormones isn’t produced as it should be, your body’s normal functions can be affected. Some of the problems with hormones, such as with cortisol or thyroid hormone, may need immediate treatment. Others aren’t life-threatening problems.

The pituitary gland makes several hormones. Some important ones include:

• Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is a hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands (glands located above or on top of the kidneys that produce hormones). ACTH triggers the adrenal glands to release a hormone called cortisol, which regulates metabolism and blood pressure.
• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is a hormone that stimulates production and secretion of thyroid hormones from the thyroid gland (a gland in the hormone system). Thyroid hormone regulates the body’s metabolism and is important in growth and development.
• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are hormones that control sexual function in males and females. LH and FSH are also known as gonadotropins. They act on the ovaries or testes to stimulate sex hormone production- estrogen from ovaries and testosterone from testes.
• Growth hormone (GH) is a hormone that stimulates normal growth of bones and tissues.
• Prolactin is a hormone that stimulates milk production and female breast growth.
• Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is a hormone that controls water loss by the kidneys.
• Oxytocin tells a woman’s uterus to contract during childbirth and signals milk to release so the baby can feed. It also helps sperm move in men. Oxytocin also plays a part in the parent-child bond, sexual arousal, and feelings of trust.

In hypopituitarism, one or more of these pituitary hormones is missing. The lack of hormone results in a loss of function of the gland or organ that it controls.

Hypopituitarism Causes

A loss of function in or damage to your pituitary gland or hypothalamus results in low or absent hormones. You might have this because of:

• Tumors
• Radiation
• Surgery
• Infections such as meningitis, or various other conditions.
• Head injuries
• Stroke or bleeding into the brain
• Medications
• Inflammation caused by abnormal immune system response
• Severe loss of blood during childbirth
• Genetic mutation
• Sarcoidosis
• Tuberculosis

In some cases, the cause is unknown.

Hypopituitarism Symptoms

Some people may have no symptoms or a gradual onset of symptoms. In other people, the symptoms may be sudden and dramatic. The symptoms depend on the cause, how fast they come on, and the hormone that is involved.

• ACTH deficiency: Symptoms include fatigue, low blood pressure, weight loss, weakness, depression, nausea, or vomiting.
• TSH deficiency: Symptoms include constipation, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, decreased energy, and muscle weakness or aching.
• FSH and LH deficiency: In women, symptoms include irregular or stopped menstrual periods and infertility. In men, symptoms include loss of body and facial hair, weakness, lack of interest in sexual activity, erectile dysfunction, and infertility.
• GH deficiency: In children, symptoms include short height, fat around the waist and in the face, and poor overall growth. In adults, symptoms include low energy, decreased strength and exercise tolerance, weight gain, decreased muscle mass, and feelings of anxiety or depression.
• Prolactin deficiency: In women, symptoms include lack of milk production. No symptoms are seen in men.
• ADH deficiency: Symptoms include increased thirst and urination.
• Oxytocin hormone deficiency: Women may have a hard time breastfeeding because of difficulty with milk letdown. Low oxytocin may also trigger symptoms of depression.

Call the doctor or health care practitioner if any of the above symptoms develop.

Hypopituitarism Diagnosis

The doctor or health care practitioner may do blood tests to determine which hormone level is low and to rule out other causes. Test you may have include:

• ACTH (Cortrosyn) stimulation test
• TSH and thyroxine test
• FSH and LH and either estradiol or testosterone (whichever is appropriate for the patient)
• Prolactin test
• GH stimulation test
• Stimulation or suppression  testing (tests that check your hormone levels after you take certain medications)
• Vision tests

You may get an MRI or CT scan of the pituitary gland may to find whether a tumor is present.

In children, X-rays of the hands may be taken to determine if bones are growing normally.

Hypopituitarism Treatment

Medical treatment consists of hormone replacement therapy and treatment of the underlying cause.

Medications

Drugs used to treat hypopituitarism replace the hormone of which you don’t have enough:

• Glucocorticoids (for example, hydrocortisone) are used to treat adrenal insufficiency resulting from ACTH deficiency.
• Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is used for hypothyroidism (a condition in which thyroid production is low). Drugs, such as levothyroxine (for example, Synthroid, Levoxyl), may be used. In the drug’s active form, it influences growth and development of tissues.
• Sex hormone deficiency is treated with sex-appropriate hormones such as testosterone or estrogen.
• Growth hormone (GH) replacement therapy is used for children as appropriate. Growth hormone stimulates linear growth and growth of skeletal muscle and organs. GH therapy may also be used in adults, but it will not make them grow taller. Examples include somapacitan-beco (Sogroya) or somatropin (Humatrope or Genotropin).
• Fertility hormones such as gonadotropin can help jumpstart ovulation or sperm production if you’re dealing with infertility.

Surgery

If a tumor is involved, you may need surgery, depending on its type and location.

Hypopituitarism Outlook

If hormone replacement therapy works, the prognosis is good. Complications are often related to the underlying disease.

Checkups with the doctor or health care practitioner are important. The doctor may need to adjust the dose of hormone replacement therapy.

Human endocrine system – Gojimo

In case you weren’t already sure the human endocrine system is the collection of glands that produce hormones that regulate a number of factors within the body including metabolism, growth, reproduction, sleep and mood among others!

There are six major endocrine glands in the human system: 1) Pituitary gland 2) Adrenal glands 3) Thyroid gland 4) Pancreas 5) Ovaries 6) Testes.

Endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream, which are carried around the body in the blood plasma. They can therefore have an effect on whichever organs the blood passes through, so their effects are widespread and long-lasting in comparison to the effects of the nervous system.

In this section you basically need to know quite a few different hormones and how they impact the human body, so let’s get stuck in:

The antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is secreted into the bloodstream by the pituitary gland and increases reabsorption of water in the collecting ducts of nephrons in the kidneys.

Adrenaline is secreted by, you’ve guessed it, the adrenal gland. Adrenaline stimulates the fight or flight response. Adrenaline causes your heart rate to increase, heart stroke volume to increase, pupils to dilate, hairs to stand on end, the brain to become more alert, blood to be redirected from organs to muscles and the liver to convert glycogen into glucose. All these responses prepare the body to either fight, or run away from a perceived threat.

Depending on how much revision you do, it’s likely you’ll have an adrenaline rush before you sit your exam – but it’s probably best not to go down the flight response route!

Insulin is secreted from the pancreas gland. High blood glucose (e.g. after a meal) stimulates the pancreas to secrete insulin into the blood, which causes the liver to convert glucose into a storage molecule called glycogen. This lowers blood glucose levels, which stimulates the pancreas to stop or decrease insulin production. This is an example of negative feedback, which is found in many biological systems involved in homeostasis.

The testes secrete testosterone and they help regulate male puberty (pubic, underarm and facial hair growth, increased aggression, muscle growth and penis growth).

Alternatively women secrete progesterone and oestrogen from the ovaries, both of which are involved in the menstrual cycle.

Oestrogen helps rebuild the uterus lining just after menstruation and also brings about ovulation on day 14 of the cycle, while progesterone is only released after ovulation (from day 14 onwards) and acts to maintain the lining of the uterus in case fertilisation occurs.

Once progesterone levels drop off near the end of the cycle, the uterus lining degrades and menstruation begins anew. Both hormones are also involved in female puberty and development of secondary sexual characteristics such as the widening of hips, growth of pubic and underarm hair and the development of a sex drive.

Related

Exploring the Endocrine System

BACKGROUND:

The next two weeks will concentrate on the human biology,
which includes the different organs and  systems in humans.  Students should
be familiar with the structure of the human body, as well as the different
tissues that combine to make different organs such as the heart and lungs.  
In addition, students should know the organs that combine into systems
such as the skeletal system or digestive system.  Each student should
be familiar with the interior of his or her own body.

Human bodies vary slightly from person to person, not
only in the visible aspects of size and shape but also in the placement
of internal organs.  Human bodies, however, follow a general pattern
and no part of the human body works in isolation.  Each body part
does its job, day and night, supported and aided by all the other organs. 
It is important for students to understand their bodies in order to take
care of them.  The sixth graders need to understand how their bodies
grow.  Students are at an age when many changes will be taking place. 
A factual presentation of their bodies’ structure will help them not only
understand but cope with the changes that they will experience.  

Endocrine glands control many of the body’s functions through
chemical substances called hormones.   Endocrine glands are ductless,
pouring hormones directly into the bloodstream.  Some organs, such
as the pancreas,  produce hormones.  The hormones produced by
the glands of the endocrine system signal the body to grow, sleep, eat,
and provide changes needed for reproduction.   

The glands of the endocrine system include the pituitary, thymus,
thyroid, and adrenal.  On the worksheet the students can locate these
glands.  The thymus gland controls activities of the spleen and the
lymph glands which are important in the immune system.  The thyroid
gland produces a hormone that regulates the metabolic rate.  Each
of the adrenal glands provide hormones for emotions such as fright or anger. 
This reaction is responsible for the extraordinary feats of strength that
people sometimes perform in emergencies.  

The pituitary gland is important because it produces many growth
hormones that are used throughout life.   The hormones in the pituitary
signal to the male and female reproductive parts to start developing the
adult male and female characteristics. The hypothalamus gland regulates
the output of the pituitary gland.  It is the pituitary that signals
the testes (male gland) to produce testosterone which tells a male body
to grow hair, increase bone growth, have greater muscle strength, and a
deeper voice.  The hormones, estrogen and progesterone from the pituitary
gland, regulate the work of the female’s ovaries.  Estrogens are important
in the development of the adult female.  Progesterone along with estrogen
is needed to prepare a female body for pregnancy.

PROCEDURE:

1. If you feel the students lack an understanding,
   we suggest you do some of the exercises for the lower grades.  Use the
   Human biology slideshow to review all the systems.
   
     
2. Go over the worksheet with the student.   See what parts
   they know already before showing them the location of each of the organ. 
   Please note, that students at this age will giggle, but if taught in
   a straight forward scientific way, the giggles will turn into curiosity.  
   
      
3. Students will undoubtedly have questions.  We suggest
   that you have available books on the human body.   You may want
   students to do a research paper.  It is so important for them to realize
   that their bodies are human machines with all parts working together to
   produce an effective and efficient product.

The Endocrine System – Human Nutrition: 2020 Edition

University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Food Science and Human Nutrition Program and Human Nutrition Program

Figure 2.19 The Endocrine System

“Major Endocrine Glands” by National Cancer Institute / Public Domain

The functions of the endocrine system are intricately connected to the body’s nutrition. This organ system is responsible for regulating appetite, nutrient absorption, nutrient storage, and nutrient usage, in addition to other functions, such as reproduction. The glands in the endocrine system are the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenals, thymus, pineal, pancreas, ovaries, and testes. The glands secrete hormones, which are biological molecules that regulate cellular processes in other target tissues, so they require transportation by the circulatory system. Adequate nutrition is critical for the functioning of all the glands in the endocrine system. A protein deficiency impairs gonadal-hormone release, preventing reproduction. Athletic teenage girls with very little body fat often do not menstruate. Children who are malnourished usually do not produce enough growth hormone and fail to reach normal height for their age group. Probably the most popularized connection between nutrition and the functions of the endocrine system is that unhealthy dietary patterns are linked to obesity and the development of Type 2 diabetes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that twenty-six million Americans have Type 2 diabetes as of 2011. This is 8.3 percent of the US population. Counties with the highest incidence of obesity also have the highest incidence of Type 2 diabetes. To see how the rise in obesity in this country is paralleled by the rise in Type 2 diabetes, review this report by the CDC.
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/statistics/slides/maps_diabetesobesity_trends.pdf 

What is the causal relationship between overnutrition and Type 2 diabetes? The prevailing theory is that the overconsumption of high-fat and high-sugar foods causes changes in muscle, fat, and liver cells that leads to a diminished response from the pancreatic hormone insulin. These cells are called “insulin-resistant.” Insulin is released after a meal and instructs the liver and other tissues to take up glucose and fatty acids that are circulating in the blood. When cells are resistant to insulin they do not take up enough glucose and fatty acids, so glucose and fatty acids remain at high concentrations in the blood. The chronic elevation of glucose and fatty acids in the blood also causes damage to other tissues over time, so that people who have Type 2 diabetes are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and eye disease.

Career Connection

Do your part to slow the rising tide of obesity and Type 2 diabetes in this country. On the individual level, improve your own family’s diet; at the local community level, support the development of more nutritious school lunch programs; and at the national level, support your nation’s nutrition goals. Visit the CDC Diabetes Public Health Resource website at https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/. It provides information on education resources, projects, and programs, and spotlights news on diabetes. For helpful information on obesity, visit https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/. The CDC also has workplace web-based resources with the mission of designing work sites that prevent obesity. See https://www. cdc.gov/workplacehealthpromotion/index.html or more details.

Learning Activities

Technology Note: The second edition of the Human Nutrition Open Educational Resource (OER) textbook features interactive learning activities.  These activities are available in the web-based textbook and not available in the downloadable versions (EPUB, Digital PDF, Print_PDF, or Open Document).

Learning activities may be used across various mobile devices, however, for the best user experience it is strongly recommended that users complete these activities using a desktop or laptop computer and in Google Chrome.

Endocrine System – Human Biology

Figure 22.1 A Child Catches a Falling Leaf Hormones of the endocrine system coordinate and control growth, metabolism, temperature regulation, the stress response, reproduction, and many other functions. (credit: “seenthroughmylense”/flickr. com)

You may never have thought of it this way, but when you send a text message to two friends to meet you at the restaurant six, you’re sending digital signals that (you hope) will affect their behavior—even though they are some distance away. Similarly, certain cells send chemical signals to other cells in the body that influence their behavior. This long-distance intercellular communication, coordination, and control is critical for homeostasis, and it is the fundamental function of the endocrine system.

After studying this chapter, you will be able to:

• Identify the contributions of the endocrine system to homeostasis
• Summarize the site of production, regulation, and effects of the hormones of the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands, and the pancreas, gonads, and kidneys.

The endocrine system produces hormones that function to control and regulate many different body processes. The endocrine system coordinates with the nervous system to control the functions of the other organ systems and to maintain homeostasis. Cells of the endocrine system produce chemical signals called hormones. These cells may compose endocrine glands, may be tissues or may be located in organs or tissues that have functions in addition to hormone production. Hormones circulate throughout the body and stimulate a response in cells that have receptors able to bind with them. The changes brought about in the receiving cells affect the functioning of the organ targeted by the hormone. Many of the hormones are secreted in response to signals from the nervous system, thus the two systems act in concert to effect changes in the body.

Maintaining homeostasis within the body requires the coordination of many different systems and organs. One mechanism of communication between neighboring cells, and between cells and tissues in distant parts of the body, occurs through the release of chemicals called hormones. Hormones are released into the blood, which carries them to their target cells where they elicit a response. The cells that secrete hormones are often located in specific organs, called endocrine glands, and the cells, tissues, and organs that secrete hormones make up the endocrine system. Examples of endocrine organs include the pancreas, which produces the hormones insulin and glucagon to regulate blood-glucose levels, the adrenal glands, which produce hormones such as epinephrine and norepinephrine that regulate responses to stress, and the thyroid gland, which produces thyroid hormones that regulate metabolic rates.

The endocrine glands differ from the exocrine glands. Exocrine glands secrete chemicals through ducts that lead outside the gland (not to the blood). For example, sweat produced by sweat glands is released into ducts that carry sweat to the surface of the skin. The pancreas has both endocrine and exocrine functions because besides releasing hormones into the blood. It also produces digestive juices, which are carried by ducts into the small intestine.

How Hormones Work

Hormones cause changes in target cells by binding to specific cell-surface or intracellular hormone receptors, proteins embedded in the cell membrane or floating in the cytoplasm with a binding site that matches a binding site on the hormone molecule. In this way, even though hormones circulate throughout the body and come into contact with many different cell types, they only affect cells that possess the necessary receptors. Receptors for a specific hormone may be found on or in many different cells or may be limited to a small number of specialized cells. For example, thyroid hormones act on many different tissue types, stimulating metabolic activity throughout the body. Cells can have many receptors for the same hormone but often also possess receptors for different types of hormones. The number of receptors that respond to a hormone determines the cell’s sensitivity to that hormone, and the resulting cellular response. Additionally, the number of receptors available to respond to a hormone can change over time, resulting in increased or decreased cell sensitivity.

The endocrine glands secrete hormones into the surrounding interstitial fluid; those hormones then diffuse into blood and are carried to various organs and tissues within the body. The endocrine glands include the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal glands, gonads, pineal, and pancreas.

The pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain (Figure 22.2a). It is attached to the hypothalamus. The posterior lobe stores and releases oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone (ADH) produced by the hypothalamus. Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions during childbirth, and it also stimulates milk letdown by the mammary glands (starts the milk flowing) during nursing. ADH stimulates the kidneys to save water from the urine. This returns more water to the blood and increases blood pressure. The anterior lobe responds to hormones produced by the hypothalamus by producing its own hormones, most of which regulate other hormone-producing glands.

Figure 22.2 (a) The pituitary gland sits at the base of the brain, just above the brain stem. (b) The parathyroid glands are located on the posterior of the thyroid gland. (c) The adrenal glands are on top of the kidneys. d) The pancreas is found between the stomach and the small intestine. (credit: modification of work by NCI, NIH)

The anterior pituitary produces six hormones: growth hormone, prolactin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). Growth hormone stimulates cellular activities like protein synthesis that promote growth. Prolactin stimulates the production of milk by the mammary glands. The other hormones produced by the anterior pituitary regulate the production of hormones by other endocrine tissues (Table 22.1). The posterior pituitary is significantly different in structure from the anterior pituitary. It is a part of the brain, extending down from the hypothalamus, and contains mostly nerve fibers that extend from the hypothalamus to the posterior pituitary.

The thyroid gland is located in the neck, just below the larynx and in front of the trachea (Figure 22.2b). It is a butterfly-shaped gland with two lobes that are connected. The thyroid gland synthesizes the hormone thyroxine, which is also known as T₄ because it contains four atoms of iodine, and triiodothyronine, also known as T₃ because it contains three atoms of iodine. T₃ and T₄ are released by the thyroid in response to thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) produced by the anterior pituitary, and both T₃ and T₄ have the effect of stimulating metabolic activity in the body and increasing energy use. A third hormone, calcitonin, is also produced by the thyroid. Calcitonin is released in response to rising calcium ion concentrations in the blood and has the effect of reducing those levels.

Most people have four parathyroid glands; however, the number can vary from two to six. These glands are located on the posterior surface of the thyroid gland (Figure 22.2b). The parathyroid glands produce parathyroid hormone, which increases blood calcium concentrations when calcium ion levels fall below normal.

The adrenal glands are located on top of each kidney (Figure 22.2c). The adrenal glands consist of an outer adrenal cortex and an inner adrenal medulla. These regions secrete different hormones.

The adrenal cortex produces aldosterone, cortisol, and androgens. Aldosterone regulates the concentration of sodium and potassium ions in the blood. Aldosterone release from the adrenal cortex is stimulated by a decrease in blood concentrations of sodium ions, blood volume, or blood pressure, or by an increase in blood potassium levels. Cortisol helps maintain proper blood-glucose levels between meals. Cortisol also controls the response to stress by increasing glucose synthesis from fats and proteins and interacting with epinephrine to cause vasoconstriction. Androgens are sex hormones that are produced in small amounts by the adrenal cortex. They do not normally affect sexual characteristics and may supplement sex hormones released from the gonads.

The adrenal medulla secretes epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline). Epinephrine and norepinephrine cause immediate, short-term changes in response to stressors, inducing the so-called fight-or-flight response. The responses include increased heart rate, breathing rate, cardiac muscle contractions, and blood-glucose levels. They also accelerate the breakdown of glucose in skeletal muscles and stored fats in adipose tissue, and redirect blood flow toward skeletal muscles and away from skin and viscera. The release of epinephrine and norepinephrine is stimulated by neural impulses from the sympathetic nervous system that originate from the hypothalamus.

The pancreas is an elongated organ located between the stomach and the proximal portion of the small intestine (Figure 22.2d). It contains both exocrine cells that excrete digestive enzymes and endocrine cells that release hormones. The endocrine cells of the pancreas form clusters called pancreatic islets or the islets of Langerhans. Among the cell types in each pancreatic islet are the alpha cells, which produce the hormone glucagon, and the beta cells, which produce the hormone insulin. These hormones regulate blood-glucose levels. Alpha cells release glucagon as blood-glucose levels decline in order to increase the glucose back up to normal. When blood-glucose levels rise, beta cells release insulin to decrease the blood glucose to normal. Glucagon causes the release of glucose to the blood from the liver, and insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose by the body’s cells.

The gonads (testes in the male and ovaries in the female)produce steroid hormones, which are made from cholesterol. The testes produce androgens, testosterone being the most prominent, which allow for the development of secondary sex characteristics and the production of sperm cells. The ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone, which cause secondary sex characteristics, regulate production of eggs, control pregnancy, and prepare the body for childbirth.

The kidneys also possess endocrine function. Erythropoietin (EPO) is released by kidneys in response to low blood oxygen levels. EPO triggers an increase in the rate of production of red blood cells in the red bone marrow. EPO has been used by athletes (e.g. cyclists) to improve performance because more RBCs mean more oxygen can be transported. However, EPO doping has its risks, because it thickens the blood and increases strain on the heart; it also increases the risk of blood clots and therefore heart attacks and stroke.

Table 22. 1 Endocrine organs and the hormones they secrete.

Hormone production and release are primarily controlled by negative feedback, as described in the discussion on homeostasis. In this way, the concentration of hormones in blood is maintained within a narrow range. For example, the anterior pituitary signals the thyroid to release thyroid hormones. Increasing levels of these hormones in the blood then give feedback to the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary to inhibit further signaling to the thyroid gland (Figure 22.3).

Figure 22.3 The anterior pituitary stimulates the thyroid gland to release thyroid hormones T₃ and T₄. Increasing levels of these hormones in the blood result in feedback to the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary to inhibit further signaling to the thyroid gland. (credit: modification of work by Mikael Häggström)

Adapted from Openstax Human Biology

90,000 Human hormones, their effect on the body and the causes of hormone dysfunctions

19 December 2013

The cells of the endocrine glands produce juices (secretions of the glands) containing substances specific for each endocrine organ called hormones and release them directly into the bloodstream. This is their difference from exocrine glands, which secrete their secret into a duct that extends to the outer surface of the body (salivary, sweat glands, stomach, lungs).

Hormones are a chemical that enters the bloodstream and reaches various organs through the bloodstream, where it stimulates or decreases the activity of other cells, called target cells. Through target cells, hormones have an effect on almost all vital functions of the human body.

The body’s endocrine glands (endocrine glands) include:

• thyroid gland;
• parathyroid gland;
• pancreas (insular part) gland;
• adrenal glands;
• testicles (testes) in men;
• ovaries in women;
• pituitary gland;
• hypothalamus.

In addition, hormones are produced by organs that are not endocrine glands. This is the heart, liver, brain.

More than 60 different hormones are currently known. Most hormones cannot be stored or stored in the body. The only exceptions are thyroglobulin in the thyroid gland, the reserves of which are sufficient for two days, and vitamin D, which can be stored in the liver. Therefore, for the normal existence of the human body, the production of hormones must be carried out constantly.The amount of hormones produced by the endocrine glands (endocrine glands) depends on the time of day, sleep or wakefulness, age, mental and physical condition of the person.

Some hormones enter the bloodstream in a pulse mode – in portions. From the sites of synthesis, hormones are transported to target cells with blood flow. Some hormones are transported by attaching to special transport carrier proteins.

Hormones are excreted from the body in small amounts unchanged with bile and urine, and most of them are processed in the liver and excreted in bile.

The main center that regulates the production of hormones by the endocrine glands and their release into the blood is the hypothalamus, located in the brain. It produces liberin hormones, which stimulate another central endocrine organ – the pituitary gland. In the pituitary gland, under the action of the hypothalamic liberins, its own hormones are produced – tropines, which stimulate the production of hormones by the endocrine glands. It is these hormones – hormones of the endocrine glands that are the main active link in this chain.In turn, the hormones of the endocrine glands have the opposite effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary system. With an increase in the concentration of the hormone in the blood, the amount of liberins in the hypothalamus decreases, then the tropines regulated by them in the pituitary gland and, ultimately, the production of the hormone itself decreases, which thus regulates its production.

This feedback scheme does not describe all the complex regulation of hormones in the body, since a huge number of factors still matter.If necessary, the regulation of the amount of hormones and their action occurs very quickly.

Why are hormone functions impaired?

Dysfunction of hormones in the body can be caused by the following reasons.

• Hormone deficiency. It occurs with a decrease in the production of hormones by the endocrine gland for various reasons: infections, heart attacks, autoimmune processes, tumors, hereditary diseases.
• Excess hormone. It occurs with excess production and release of hormones into the bloodstream.The reasons for this may be excessive synthesis of hormones by the endocrine gland, the production of hormones by other tissues (usually in malignant degeneration), increased production of hormones by tissues from its precursor, and iatrogenic reasons, when an excess of a hormone is introduced when hormones are prescribed as a drug.
• Synthesis of abnormal hormones by the endocrine glands. This happens more often with congenital genetic abnormalities.
• Hormone resistance. In this case, the tissues of the body do not give the usual reaction to a normal or increased amount of the hormone in the blood. Resistance (immunity) of tissues to a hormone has various reasons: hereditary nature, a defect in tissue receptors, the appearance of antibodies to hormones.

There are diseases that immediately affect many endocrine organs (Schmidt’s syndrome, multiple endocrine neoplasia of MEN, lipodystrophy). This makes the diagnosis and treatment of endocrine diseases even more challenging.

description, prices, reviews, online booking

We value trust
We explain diagnoses and treatment regimen, write legibly

20 years
We care about the health of adults and children

112 doctors
General practitioners and specialists

5 branches
We try to be closer to our patients

Doctors-endocrinologists of our medical center have extensive practical experience with endocrine pathology, carry out a complete diagnosis of diseases of the endocrine system, and, if necessary, prescribe treatment.

Special programs for the management of patients with endocrine system pathology have been developed and are successfully applied.

The network of clinics “Medicine for You” provides:

• A complete study of the body’s hormonal levels.
• Ultrasound of the endocrine glands, including the thyroid gland
• Selection of corrective treatment for compensation of type I and II diabetes mellitus
• Treatment of complications in patients with diabetes mellitus
• Obesity Treatment
• Diagnosis and treatment of thyroid diseases
• Corrective therapy of climacteric syndrome
• Diagnosis and treatment of endocrine disorders in infertility in men and women.

When choosing treatment methods, our doctors take into account all the characteristics of a person – his age, gender, lifestyle, and much more. In addition, the doctor will definitely give recommendations on proper nutrition.

We are engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of all disorders of the endocrine system.

Endocrinology is a branch of medical science that studies the endocrine system, its structure, functioning, diseases. The human endocrine system consists of several endocrine glands, which are located in different parts of the body.The endocrine system includes: the sex glands, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, pituitary gland, islets of the pancreas, thymus and pineal gland. These endocrine glands are small in size, but they release chemicals into the bloodstream – hormones that affect various systems, organs and tissues of the body. Every organ of a person, including the brain, heart, lungs, skin, is connected with the endocrine glands and is exposed to hormones. It is obvious that the correct functioning of the endocrine system is a prerequisite for the health of the whole organism, and disruption of their work can have very serious consequences.

Diseases of the endocrine glands often have symptoms at first glance associated with the work of other organs: for example, fatigue, irritability, dizziness, which are often fought with sedatives, can be caused by dysfunction of the thyroid gland, and excess weight, which is unsuccessfully trying to overcome diet and fitness, it is associated with various disorders of the endocrine system, for example, the hypothalamic region of the brain. An examination by an endocrinologist and in the treatment of infertility is necessary, the cause of which is very often endocrine disorders.

There may be the following disorders in the functioning of the endocrine system:

– Hormone deficiency, which occurs when the production of hormones by the endocrine gland decreases for various reasons: infections, autoimmune processes, tumors, hereditary diseases.

– An excess of hormones occurs when they are overproduced and released into the bloodstream. The reasons for this may be various diseases, as well as excessive administration of hubbubs by drugs.

– Synthesis of abnormal hormones by the endocrine glands.This happens more often with congenital genetic abnormalities.

– Immunity to hormones. In this case, the tissues of the body do not give the usual reaction to a normal or increased amount of the hormone in the blood.

You will be trained to independently normalize your blood sugar level, determine the presence of initial signs of late complications of diabetes mellitus and treat them using modern methods.

Endocrine tumors | University ClinicFreiburg

What is a neuroendocrine tumor (NET)?

For the most part, malignant cells of the neuroendocrine tumor (NET) are formed from cells of the neural plates and in their characteristics are similar to the endocrine glandular cells, which are responsible for the production of certain hormones that control, for example, the digestion process. The classic name is “carcinoid”. This disease is rare – it accounts for 0.5 – 2% of all tumor diseases; she has no typical age limit.

A characteristic feature is the secretion of serotonin and other hormones, in connection with which the so-called carcinoid syndrome can occur.

Reasons

Along with hereditary characteristics due to various syndromes, i.e. due to the genetic component, it has not yet been possible to determine any other risk factors and causes of the disease.

Diagnosis

Since with NET it is possible to degenerate different types of cells that perform different functions in the body of a healthy person, the symptoms can be very different.In addition to nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation and anemia, there may be specific symptoms such as acromegaly (marked enlargement of the hands, feet, skull, or protruding parts of the body), Cushing’s syndrome, or frequent gastrointestinal ulcers

In descending order, NETs affect the appendix (cecum), small intestine, rectum, and bronchi. In the presence of metastases in the liver, the already mentioned carcinoid syndrome often appears, the signs of which are: redness of the face, diarrhea, narrowing of the bronchi, lowering blood pressure, etc.

The doctor, during a visit to him, will conduct a detailed conversation with the patient, and a thorough examination. After that, various laboratory parameters and the level of hormones in the patient’s blood will be determined. Then imaging methods will be applied, which include: X-ray, ultrasound, if possible, computed or magnetic resonance imaging (CT / MRI), skeletal scintigraphy, and especially – positron emission tomography (PET).

Often, as part of an endoscopic examination or with the help of computed tomography of the gastrointestinal tract, a tissue sample is taken from the affected organ for further examination and a pathological conclusion.

Therapy

Therapy often requires a multifaceted approach, i.e. it is necessary to use different methods of treatment. The following methods are used: surgery, radiation therapy, nuclear medicine methods, somatostatin analogs, interferon, and, if possible, chemotherapy.

Treatment of endocrine system diseases and metabolic disorders in the sanatorium

Treatment of endocrine system diseases and metabolic disorders in the sanatorium

We care about our guests and are taking action to combat the spread of the COVID-19 virus. We care about the safety of our guests.
More details

Best Price Guaranteed!

Large indoor pool 25m

Children under 4 years old stay free of charge

Convenient location – 100 meters to the medical park and the pump room with mineral water

Free luggage delivery to the room

Daily animation program

VIP service in superior rooms

Unique treatment programs

One of the most severe chronic diseases is a violation of the activity of the endocrine glands and metabolic processes. Because of this, all organs and systems of a person suffer, since their work is regulated by hormones. With pathologies of the thyroid and pancreas, disruptions in the production of basic hormones and enzymes occur. Most often, this leads to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Diabetes mellitus develops. Dysfunctions of the thyroid gland are also dangerous, in which diseases such as hypothyroidism, thyrotoxicosis and other diseases develop.

It is best to treat endocrine system diseases and metabolic disorders in a sanatorium.Favorable climatic conditions, psychological atmosphere and unique mineral waters in the Shakhtar sanatorium help to improve the functioning of the thyroid and pancreas, normalize blood sugar levels and activate metabolic processes. After a course of treatment in a sanatorium, 98% of patients feel improvements: weight decreases, mood and sleep improve, and exacerbations stop.

Treatment of diabetes mellitus in the sanatorium

Treatment at the Shakhtar sanatorium is based on the action of mineral water. It is most effective for metabolic disorders and the functions of the endocrine glands. A good result is achieved in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in a sanatorium. Patients feel better, they can reduce the dose of antihyperglycemic drugs, as the level of glycated hemoglobin is normalized. This is achieved with the help of a special diet, drinking mineral waters, iodine-bromine baths, therapeutic showers, mud applications, massage, exercise therapy and hardware procedures.

Normalization of the thyroid gland in the sanatorium

For patients with excessive and insufficient thyroid function, all physiotherapy procedures are contraindicated.But they are also provided with effective assistance at the Shakhtar sanatorium. For this are used:

• climatic factors;
• mineral waters for external and internal use;
• special diet;
• mode of physical activity;
• massage.

These and other procedures help to establish metabolism and restore the function of the thyroid gland.

Treatment of obesity in the sanatorium

With the normalization of metabolic processes, a gradual but stable weight loss occurs.Sanatorium Shakhtar has many effective methods of obesity treatment. A 2-3 week course of treatment helps to lose 5 to 20 kg. For this, patients are offered:

• special meals;
• special daily regimen;
• physical activity – exercise therapy pool, nordic walking;
• pressotherapy;
• ozone therapy;
• different types of massage.

High professionalism of the staff of the sanatorium ensures a comfortable stay here for every patient.Anyone who has fluctuations in blood sugar or thyroid hormones, who has a slow metabolism and accumulates excess body fat should come to Shakhtar. Mineral water “Essentuki” works wonders – after the course of treatment, the patient feels a significant improvement in the quality of life.

Spa programs

Diabetes Treatment Program

Tours from 12 days

Prevention of complications in patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus.

90,000 2.21. Human organs and tissues, blood and its components, samples of human biological materials / ConsultantPlus

2. 21. Human organs and tissues, blood and its components,

samples of human biological materials

Notes to the section: 1. For the purposes of this section, it is necessary to be guided by both the EAEU nomenclature of goods subject to foreign trade code and the name of the goods.

2. Export from the customs territory of the Eurasian Economic Union of samples of human biological materials not intended for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes, including for blood transfusion or transplantation, is carried out in accordance with the export control legislation of a member state of the Eurasian Economic Union.

Open the full text of the document

90,000 Diagnostics and treatment of pituitary diseases – reception of an endocrinologist at VESNA Clinic

Functions of the pituitary gland

Hormones, which are synthesized in the pituitary gland, affect the work of other endocrine glands, reducing or increasing their activity. The activity of the pituitary gland itself is regulated by the hypothalamus. Thus, both of these organs together regulate the work of the adrenal glands, thyroid gland, gonads, promote lactation in women, and also affect the growth and development of the body, the formation of bone tissue, and water balance.

The main causes of pathologies of the pituitary gland

Reasons for a decrease in the synthesis of pituitary hormones:

• violation of the blood supply to the brain tissues;
• congenital underdevelopment of the pituitary gland;
• severe blood loss;
• hemorrhage in the pituitary gland;
• autoimmune diseases;
• malignant neoplasms, metastases;
• skull trauma;
• meningitis, encephalitis;
• radiation therapy;
• brain surgeries;
• pituitary macroadenoma, compressing the remaining healthy tissue;
• severe course of certain viral pathologies, malaria, syphilitic or tuberculosis infections.

The main reason for the increased synthesis is the pituitary adenoma. The cells of this benign tumor produce certain hormones in excess. In this case, the tumor compresses the pituitary gland, which can lead to a decrease in the synthesis of other hormones.

The most common diseases of the pituitary gland

Tumors

Most often, a violation of the pituitary gland is associated with benign tumors – adenomas. Such tumors can be hormonally active and produce certain hormones, or hormonally inactive and not produce anything.Clinically, this pathology manifests itself in different ways depending on which hormones the tumor produces or does not produce anything at all, as well as depending on the size of the tumor. A tumor can increase the production of some hormones of the pituitary gland and suppress the synthesis of others, which leads to hormonal disruption in the body. In some cases, the pathological process is asymptomatic, therefore, a neoplasm in the pituitary gland is detected by chance when performing an MRI or CT scan of the brain.

Gigantism

This disease develops when too much growth hormone is synthesized in children and adolescents.At this age, the growth zone at the ends of the bones is not yet closed, so they begin to grow rapidly in length. A person with gigantism is tall (from 195 centimeters and above), the length of the limbs is increased. Following the bone tissue, muscles begin to grow. For their normal operation, increased blood supply is required, the heart cannot cope with the increased loads, as a result, a person develops cardiovascular diseases. In addition, underdevelopment of the genitals is often observed with gigantism.

Acromegaly

The disease usually occurs in people aged 30-50 years and is associated with increased synthesis of growth hormone. At this age, such an increase no longer affects the growth of bones in length, since the growth zone is closed. Therefore, the bone tissue begins to grow in width, which leads to deformation and thickening of parts of the body, especially the limbs. The facial features become rough, the jaw is massive. The skin darkens and coarsens, the size of the tongue may increase, the voice becomes hoarse, vision decreases.As a result of an increase in the size of the heart, heart failure develops. Pathological changes develop slowly, so they remain invisible for a long time.

Short stature (dwarf)

Occurs when there is a lack of growth hormone in childhood. In women suffering from nanism, growth does not exceed 120 centimeters, in men – 130 centimeters.

Itsenko-Cushing’s disease

This is a whole complex of symptoms caused by excessive synthesis of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by the pituitary gland, which in turn stimulates the increased production of glucocorticoid hormones by the adrenal glands.The main signs of this pathological condition: obesity of the upper body (the limbs remain thin at the same time), an edematous “moon-like” face, thin skin, a decrease in muscle mass, a tendency to bruise, stretch marks on the skin. Concomitant diseases develop gradually: osteoporosis, arterial hypertension, impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes mellitus.

Sheehan’s Syndrome

This is a sharp decrease in the function of the adenohypophysis in women after childbirth, which occurs as a result of pituitary necrosis. The death of tissues occurs due to difficult childbirth with severe bleeding, as a result of which blood pressure drops sharply and the volume of circulating blood decreases. Lactation in Sheehan’s syndrome does not occur, a woman develops cachexia, hair loss in the axillary region and pubis is possible, and it is also possible to develop acute adrenal insufficiency, manifested by a sharp decrease in blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, weakness, and palpitations. Without timely assistance, this condition can be fatal.

Diabetes insipidus

A disease that develops due to insufficient secretion of antidiuretic hormone (vasopressin) by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. The cause of this disease can be tumors of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, impaired blood supply in the hypothalamic-pituitary region, traumatic brain injury.

This disease is manifested by thirst, frequent urination and electrolyte disturbances.

If the tumor is hormonally inactive, but at the same time large enough (more than 1-2 cm), then the following symptoms may come to the fore: headaches, thirst, complete or partial loss of visual fields.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of pituitary pathologies includes the following steps:

• consultation of an endocrinologist, if necessary – a neurosurgeon;
• neurological and physical examination, study of the patient’s anamnesis;
• X-ray of the skull – performed to exclude infectious diseases of the brain and identify tumor formations;
• MRI, CT – using these high-precision methods, specialists determine the exact size and localization of the neoplasm, which is extremely important to know when preparing for surgery;
• blood test for pituitary hormones.

If necessary, the doctor may prescribe additional examinations.

Treatment methods

Therapy of pathologies of the pituitary gland can be conservative or operative. With a reduced synthesis of pituitary hormones, hormone replacement therapy is indicated, which, as a rule, is lifelong. In case of excessive synthesis, the patient can be offered surgical treatment, or drugs that suppress the activity or production of the target hormone are prescribed.

Surgical treatment is usually indicated for adenoma and other neoplasms.In addition, radiation therapy is used to relieve the symptoms of the disease and suppress the growth of neoplasms according to indications. In some types of hormone-dependent adenomas, as well as in the presence of contraindications to surgical treatment, drug therapy is used, which helps to suppress hormonal hypersecretion, and in some cases leads to a decrease in tumor size. Hormonally inactive tumors of small size without symptoms of compression of the optic nerves require dynamic monitoring without the use of surgical treatment.

Disorders in the work of the pituitary gland pose a serious danger to human health and can lead to the development of a number of serious diseases. Timely diagnosis and proper treatment are the keys to longevity and good health.

90,000 Endocrine diseases – diagnostics and treatment in Moscow, price

03.11.2021

The article was checked by a general practitioner Lisina M. S. is for general informational purposes only and does not replace specialist advice.
For recommendations on diagnosis and treatment, a doctor’s consultation is required.

Endocrine diseases relate to the work of the endocrine glands, and in recent years their frequency has increased. This also applies to diseases of the thyroid gland, and diabetes mellitus, and other serious disorders.

Experts note that the manifestations of endocrine problems are diverse, therefore, they are often found not by endocrinologists, but by doctors of other specialties. In particular, many patients come with anxiety to a therapist who can refer the patient to the necessary examination.

Therapists of the Yauza Clinical Hospital work in close cooperation with experienced endocrinologists, who in each case prescribe an individual treatment regimen. The therapist continues to observe the patient throughout the treatment, monitoring its effectiveness.

Main causes of endocrinological diseases

Often, doctors find it difficult to quickly name the cause of the development of endocrine disease, because there are many factors causing pathology.Moreover, in some cases, the cause of the disease remains unknown there.

The main factors that lead to the development of endocrine disorders include the following:

• tumors of gland tissues
• cysts
• infectious diseases
• hereditary factor
• chronic diseases of other organs and systems
• cardiovascular failure
• surgical interventions
• taking a number of drugs

Since the hormones produced by the endocrine glands regulate the work of other organs and systems, endocrine diseases disrupt metabolism and symptoms that are characteristic, for example, of diseases of the skin, kidneys, etc.In general, this makes diagnosis difficult.

Most common endocrine disorders

Diabetes mellitus – a chronic disease associated with metabolic disorders, in which the body produces insufficient insulin or decreases its effectiveness with increased glucose levels.

Diabetes insipidus (diabetes insipidus) – a disease associated with the inability of the kidneys to concentrate urine and reabsorb water, which is caused by the absence or decrease in the secretion of the antidiuretic hormone vasopressin, or the immunity to it of the epithelium of the renal tubules.

Obesity is a disease characterized by excessive deposition of adipose tissue in the body. The main symptoms of primary obesity: fatigue, apathy, weakness, drowsiness, shortness of breath, increased appetite, dry skin or, conversely, sweating, fungal diseases, skin inflammation, hypersecretion of gastric juice.
The symptoms of secondary obesity are determined by the underlying disease.

Osteoporosis is a progressive systemic disease in which the structure of bone tissue is disturbed, its density decreases due to partial resorption of bone substance.Bones become fragile and prone to fracture, even under light loads.

Thyrotoxicosis (hyperthyroidism) – a condition caused by an excessive content of thyroid hormones in the body, which leads to metabolic disorders, functions of the nervous and cardiovascular systems.

Thyroiditis – inflammation of the thyroid gland, which is manifested by pain when swallowing and moving the head back, an increase in the size of the neck, soreness of the lymph nodes, fever, throbbing pain in the ears, tachycardia, chills.

Diagnostics and treatment of endocrine diseases in the Clinical Hospital on Yauza

Doctors of the therapy department of the Clinical Hospital on Yauza have all the facilities for high-quality diagnostics of endocrine diseases. As a rule, for a comprehensive diagnosis, it is necessary to conduct laboratory tests of urine and blood, to do special hormonal studies, as well as ultrasound, and, if necessary, CT, MRI and ECG. All these opportunities are available at the Clinical Hospital on Yauza.

After examination and establishment of a preliminary diagnosis, the therapist usually refers the patient to a consultation with an endocrinologist, who clarifies the diagnosis and prescribes the optimal treatment. In this case, the patient remains under the supervision of the therapist until the end of the treatment.

Cost of services

You can look at prices for services in the price list or check the phone number indicated on the website.

Literature:

3. Bova A.A. Functional diagnostics in the practice of a therapist: a guide for doctors // MIA. 2007.

4. Golofeevsky V.Yu. Classification of diseases of internal organs and methods of therapeutic research: a guide for medical students.