Endocrinologist & Endocrinology Services in Houston, TX

Endocrinology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the study and treatment of disorders related to the endocrine system. The endocrine system consists of glands that produce and secrete hormones, which are chemical messengers that help regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, growth, reproduction, mood, and stress response.

Hormones play a fundamental role in regulating nearly every aspect of our health and well-being. These chemical messengers are produced by the endocrine glands (such as the thyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas, and ovaries/testes) and are released into the bloodstream, where they travel to target organs and tissues to exert their effects. The precise balance of hormones is crucial for maintaining normal bodily functions.

Diagnosing hormonal imbalances typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The tests used depend on the specific hormone(s) suspected to be out of balance and the patient’s symptoms. Commonly used tests include thyroid function panel (Thyroid stimulating hormone and free T4), adrenal function (ACTH and cortisol), reproductive hormones (Luteinizing hormone, Follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, testosterone), and prolactin.

PCOS involves a range of symptoms that can vary in severity, and it can affect fertility, metabolism, and overall health. It is primarily characterized by an imbalance of hormones, particularly androgens (male hormones, which are present in small amounts in females), and irregularities in the menstrual cycle. Treatment targets symptoms and can  include oral contraceptives, anti-androgens, metformin and lifestyle modifications.

When the body experiences stress, it activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and triggers the release of stress hormones, including cortisol, adrenaline, and norepinephrine which plays key roles in the stress response.