The endocrinologist is the doctor specializing in hormonal problems: he treats diseases linked to a disruption of hormones, often due to the thyroid. Here is when consulting it and how is a session.
The endocrinologist is The doctor specializing in hormone disorders. What does an endocrinologist treat? What is the difference between an endocrinologist and a diabetologist? How is an exam in an endocrinologist? Do you need a prescription to go see an endocrinologist?
What is the role of an endocrinologist?
The endocrinologist is a specialized doctor In internal secretion hormones. He is therefore capable ofEvaluate the operation of the hormonal systemand to treat the disorders that a disruption can cause, as vast as these disorders can be. Indeed, the hormones control the entire operation of the body, thanks to their transport by blood circulation. The endocrinologist will therefore check the proper functioning of these regulation systems, the quantity of these hormones and to treat any pathologies linked to a hormonal disruption. Given the complexity of the hormonal system, endocrinology occurs at many levels: digestive, sexual, nutritional, dermatological … “”Hormones are substances in the body, kinds of messengers who order all the functions of the body“Explains Dr. Jean Michel Borys, endocrinologist.”These hormones are made by glands, which are all over the body. The most important is called the gland pituitary in the brain. Ovaries, pancreas, thyroid are also glands“, He specifies. Once delivered in the body, the hormones control the whole body: heart rate, digestion, body temperature, socket or weight loss … Thus, endocrinology affects all the functions of the organism: nutrition, reproduction, digestion, dermatology …
What does an endocrinologist take care of?
An endocrinologist can treat all hormonal pathologies, which are therefore very large.
► “The most frequent, they are thyroid pathologiesexplains the specialist. It is a gland in the neck, which acts on lots of things: the heart, temperature, digestion, fertilization … “ About 3 to 4 % of people suffer from thyroid problems, mostly women. “”This is the most common anomaly we see in the office“. There are also many diseases linked to the malfunction of the glands:”For example, if the pituitary gland, which controls others, does not work well (because of a cyst for example), this can cause sterility, hair problems, etc.“, Details the doctor.
► In addition to these many pathologies, the endocrinologist also supports diabetes: “Often, the endocrinologist is also diabetologist, since diabetes comes from an insulin problem, a hormone made by the pancreas“.
When to consult an endocrinologist?
In general, we consult an endocrinologist in case:
- Of thyroid pathologies (hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroid nodule, thyroid cancer, etc.).
- Damage to the pituitary gland (Cushing’s disease, adenomas …)
- Adrenal attacks (Addison disease …)
- D ‘Hormonal anomalies of the reproductive systemlike problems of sterility, early puberty, gonadic insufficiency …
Do you need a prescription to consult an endocrinologist?
Normally yes. “”In the majority of cases, it is the general practitioner or the cardiologist who discovers something abnormal, and who sends us patients“. It happens that a patient comes to consult without a prescription for monitoring thyroid problems, or for a problem of metabolism, such as overweight or obesity not explained.
A first consultation with the endocrinologist begins, in general, by A interrogation. The patient explains his symptoms and history, and gives the doctor the essential documents (letter from the general practitioner, result of blood test etc.). The practical endocrinologist then A complete clinical examination. Once all these steps are finished, the doctor can, normally, already make one or more diagnoses. However, to confirm or deny it, he can prescribe new exams, if he deems it necessary. If this is the case, the patient must therefore return to see the endocrinologist with the results of these new exams. In the event of diagnosis of chronic disease (for example, diabetes, hypothyroidism etc.), a long -term followed will then be essential.
Prepare your visit to the endocrinologist
Before you go to your endocrinologist appointment, Remember to bring together all the elements of your medical file. Blood, ultrasound, scanner, MRI … These analyzes are essential to help the specialist understand your symptoms. Obviously, if you have many symptoms, remember to list them so as not to forget any detail during your consultation.
How much does a consultation cost? Is it reimbursed?
The prices of consultations with an endocrinologist vary a lot, whether the doctor is grasped or not. It is therefore better to find out the advance. As it is a specialist, the Social security reimburses 70 %if the care path is respected, that is to say if you have consulted your attending physician Before making an appointment. Then, the rest of the invoice is supported by the mutual if you have one, depending on the rates to which you have subscribed.
What studies to become endocrinologist?
Becoming endocrinologist requires 11 years of study. After obtaining the baccalaureate, you must succeed in the entrance exam to the classic cycle of medical studies. Once you arrive at the ECN (national classifying tests) in 6th year, it will be necessary to specialize in endocrinology, if the classification allows. It will take another 4 to 5 more years of study. Finally, after having validated all internships, the diploma of specialized studies (des) and supported his thesis, the candidate obtains his state diploma as a doctor of medicine.
Thank you to Dr Jean Michel BORYS, endocrinologist.
Thank you to Dr Jean Michel BORYS, endocrinologist.
