Endocrinology

While common among, hormone imbalances can cause troublesome symptoms or medical complications when not addressed. At The Heart Center of the Oranges, PA, with locations in West Orange, East Orange, South Orange, Maplewood, Newark, and Bloomfield, New Jersey, the experienced medical team provides comprehensive endocrinology care for men and women in all life stages. Schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation by phone or online today.

What is endocrinology?

Endocrinology is a medical specialty that deals with your body’s hormones, hormone-secreting glands, and some organs. Hormones play a role in numerous bodily functions, including growth, development, metabolism, and even sleep. 

Examples of hormones the human body makes include:

• Adrenaline
• Ghrelin 
• Growth hormone
• Melatonin
• Insulin
• Thyroid hormone
• Testosterone
• Estrogen
• Progesterone

Glands in your body secrete these and other hormones. Endocrinologists evaluate, diagnose, and treat conditions that cause hormone irregularities.

Which conditions does endocrinology address?

Endocrinology services at The Heart Center of the Oranges, PA, can diagnose and treat the following conditions associated with hormone imbalance:

• Thyroid disease
• Diabetes
• Low testosterone
• Low estrogen
• Menopause symptoms 
• Obesity
• Metabolic conditions
• Endocrine cancers
• Goiters
• Gynecomastia
• Erectile dysfunction (ED) 
• Hormone-related infertility
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Low or high blood calcium levels

See a medical professional anytime you experience new or unusual symptoms of a hormone disorder. Examples include fatigue, hair loss, hot or cold sensitivity, menstruation changes in women, weight gain or weight loss, or skin changes.

Risk factors for developing endocrinology disorders include a family history of hormone issues, aging, radiation therapy, past surgeries, and some genetic conditions. 

What happens during endocrinology appointments?

During endocrinology visits to The Heart Center of the Oranges, PA, your provider discusses the reason for your visit. They check your blood pressure, pulse, and other vital signs, weigh you, and review your medical history. Your provider asks about your lifestyle, symptoms, medications, family history of diseases, and more.

Endocrinologists offer various diagnostic tests, including blood tests, imaging procedures, and others that pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and help your specialist make an accurate diagnosis. 

Which endocrinology treatments are available?

The Heart Center of the Oranges, PA, team may recommend one or more of the following endocrinology treatments for hormone issues:

Healthy lifestyle education 

Altering your lifestyle habits can improve hormone function. It’s vital to exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, minimize stress, eat nutritious foods, and maintain an ideal weight. Avoid smoking and excess alcohol use. 

Hormone therapy

Hormone replacement therapy can improve hormone balance by increasing levels of specific hormones within your body.

Medications

Taking prescription medications can treat underlying health conditions associated with hormone irregularities.  

Medical procedures

If you have a tumor or another condition that affects gland function, your endocrinologist may suggest a medical procedure, such as thyroid gland resection or removal. 

Schedule an in-person or telehealth endocrinology consultation at The Heart Center of the Oranges, PA, by phone or online today.