The endocrine system plays a critical role in maintaining balance within the body, regulating processes like growth, metabolism, and reproduction. It consists of glands that produce hormones, which are the body’s chemical messengers that tell it how to function. Problems come when these glands don’t function properly, which causes multiple health problems. Diagnosing these problems is tricky, because the related symptoms can suggest other conditions. People experiencing these symptoms need the expertise of an endocrinologist to help them diagnose, treat, and manage their condition.
Here are the five most common diseases caused by endocrine system imbalance.
- Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent conditions caused by endocrine dysfunction, particularly involving the pancreas. The pancreas produces insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels, which are essential for bodily function. Insulin puts sugar into your bloodstream which is then used by the cells for energy, so it’s the basic engine for people to, talk, eat, and breathe.
In type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing cells, leading to improper insulin production. In type 2 diabetes, the body either becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. Both types result in elevated blood glucose levels, which can cause long-term damage to various organs. Poor diet and lack of exercise are main drivers for developing type 2 diabetes, and a quality diet and vigorous exercise can reverse the condition. Type 1 diabetes is not reversible, and these patients need to take insulin daily to survive.
- Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate metabolism, and when levels are too low, it can lead to a host of problems including reduced fertility, fatigue and depression, heart problems, and a range of others. Hypothyroidism can be caused by autoimmune diseases, iodine deficiency, or thyroid surgery. Thankfully, hypothyroidism is manageable through synthetic thyroid hormone replacement.
- Hyperthyroidism
On the opposite end of thyroid dysfunction is hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. This condition accelerates the body’s metabolism, causing various symptoms including rapid weight loss, anxiety, irritability, and a racing heart. One of the most common causes of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid. In severe cases, hyperthyroidism can lead to serious heart problems and bone loss. Treatment typically involves medication to regulate thyroid hormone levels, or in some cases patients might need surgery or other interventions.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a common endocrine disorder that affects women of reproductive age. IIt’s caused by imbalanced reproductive hormones which lead to irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen (male hormone) production, and the development of cysts on the ovaries. Women with PCOS often experience symptoms like acne, excessive hair growth, weight gain, and infertility. PCOS is also linked to insulin resistance, so women with the condition should talk to their reproductive endocrinologist about further risks of conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Patients can manage (not cure) PCOS with lifestyle changes, medications, and hormone therapy.
For those seeking expert insight into endocrinology, Dr. Brian Fertig is a leading expert in the field as both a physician and noted author. Dr. Fertig has dedicated his career to advancing understanding of metabolic health and the role of hormones. He is the author of “Metabolism and Medicine”, a two-volume series that offers comprehensive insights into how metabolic processes are the fundamental drivers of the entire human “engine.” He also collaborated with celebrated author and wellness expert Deepak Chopra to write “Quantum Body” which explores metabolism, wellness, mindfulness, and whole-body health in new and fascinating ways.