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8 endocrine disorders to know

The endocrine system is responsible for the production of multiple hormones in the human body. These hormones regulate important functions that help the body to heal itself, control metabolic functions, regulate mood and sleep, and aid in growth and development. However, certain endocrine conditions result in disruption in the production of hormones and interfere with bodily functions, leading to more severe disease. Some of these endocrine conditions are discussed below:

Endocrine system
The endocrine system consists of various glands in the human body that produce hormones. The glands monitor the number of hormones produced and release these hormones into the bloodstream, from where they travel to various parts of the body. A few important glands and organs, as well as the hormones that are produced, include:

Pituitary gland
This is the most important gland that tells other glands what to do. It is located in the brain. It makes essential hormones, such as the growth hormone and the thyroid-stimulating hormone.
Thyroid gland
This gland, located in the neck, makes the thyroid hormone that controls metabolism and growth.
Pancreas
This is an organ that makes insulin and glucagon hormones that regulate blood sugar levels. The pancreas is located behind the stomach.
Ovaries
Present in women in the pelvic area, this organ makes the hormones: estrogen and progesterone that control the reproductive functions.
Testes
Present in men, this organ makes testosterone that controls reproductive functions in men.
Adrenal glands
These glands make the hormones adrenaline and corticosteroids that control blood flow, metabolism, and oxygen intake. The adrenal glands are located at the top of the kidneys.
Parathyroid glands
These glands are situated behind the thyroid gland and regulate the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body. They are responsible for bone health.

Causes of endocrine conditions
Multiple factors can disrupt the functioning of the endocrine system. Some of these are genetic factors, and autoimmune conditions cause others. Some are due to poor lifestyle habits, including meal regimens that are rich in saturated fats and low in nutrients, insufficient sleep, too much stress, and lack of exercise. Exposure to chemicals and infections can also be endocrine disruptors. Tumors cause certain endocrine conditions in the glands that produce hormones, interfering with the number of hormones produced. Too much or too little of the hormones can cause serious endocrine conditions.

Common endocrine conditions

Diabetes
This is the most common endocrine disorder in millions of people worldwide. It refers to high blood sugar levels resulting from insufficient insulin or insulin insensitivity. Major symptoms of diabetes include:

Tiredness and fatigue
Constant thirst and the need to urinate
Poor vision
Hunger

Hypothyroidism
It refers to low thyroid hormone levels when the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient hormones. Since the thyroid is responsible for the body’s metabolic functions, low thyroid levels slow down various bodily activities, leading to:

Fatigue and tiredness
Slower heartbeat
Sensitivity to cold
Dry skin
Slow speech
Facial swelling

Hyperthyroidism
The opposite of hypothyroidism; this is when the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone. It tends to speed up metabolic functions, causing the following symptoms:

Sleep issues
Rapid and irregular heartbeat
Inability to regulate body temperature
Irritability

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is caused by an imbalance in the reproductive hormones in women. It results in cysts in the ovaries. Symptoms of PCOS include:

Acne
Irregular menstrual cycles
Hair growth on the body, especially the face
Infertility

Low testosterone
Also known as hypogonadism, it affects men. Major symptoms of this endocrine condition include:

Decreased sexual drive
Erectile dysfunction
Hair loss
Depression

Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis results from common endocrine disorders, such as diabetes and hyperthyroidism. These are the hormones that are required to ensure healthy bone development. A hormonal imbalance will result in bone loss and increase the risk of fractures.

Acromegaly
This endocrine condition is a result of the overproduction of the growth hormone. It results in the following symptoms:

Large hands and feet
Enlarged facial features

Cushing’s syndrome
It is the result of excess production of the hormone cortisol, which regulates stress, blood pressure, and metabolism. Too much cortisol results in the following symptoms:

Depression and anxiety
Muscle weakness
High blood pressure
Thin arms and legs with a rounded face
Tiredness and fatigue

Endocrine conditions affect millions of people in the country every year. The treatment includes getting relevant tests, including blood, urine, and genetic tests. The test results can be studied with the help of a medical doctor who can prescribe the required treatment.

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