what is an endocrinologist do

An endocrinologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats health conditions related to problems with the bodys hormones, hormonal glands, and related tissues. They have specialized training in the endocrine system and can help diagnose, treat, and manage illnesses that can arise when hormone imbalances or endocrine gland problems occur. Endocrinologists can diagnose endocrine conditions, develop treatment and management plans for them, and prescribe medication. They specialize in treating disorders of the endocrine system, which is the network of hormone-producing glands in the body. Some of the conditions that endocrinologists can treat include diabetes, thyroid diseases, infertility, growth issues, metabolic disorders, osteoporosis, some cancers, and disorders in the hormone-producing adrenal glands and pituitary glands. Endocrinologists perform a series of tests to understand the problem, determine the best treatment, and help patients with lifestyle changes that can improve the medical condition. To become an endocrinologist in the United States, a person must obtain a bachelors degree, complete approximately four years of medical school, and complete a two- to three-year residency in internal medicine or pediatrics.