The endocrinologist is the specialist in hormonal problems. It takes care of pathologies linked to hormone imbalance but also people with diabetes and having overweight or obesity problems. 

Endocrinology is a medical discipline which is interested in the so-called “endocrine” glands, that is to say organs capable of secreting hormones directly released into the bloodstream, while the exocrine glands release their substance. apart from the blood circulation like the skin for the sweat glands, an opening for the nasal mucus etc … Examples of endocrine glands: the pituitary gland (gland located at the base of the brain), the pancreas which secretes insulin, the testes and the ovaries, adrenal glands …

An endocrinologist is consulted in the event of pathologies of the thyroid (hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroiditis, thyroid nodule, thyroid cancer), of the pituitary gland (acromegaly, prolactin adenoma, cushing’s disease, adenomas, etc.), of the adrenal gland ( Addison’s disease …), hormonal abnormalities of the female and male reproductive system (fertility or sterility problems, menopausal disorders, precocious puberty, gonadal insufficiency, etc.)

When a person has a metabolism problem (overweight, obesity, etc.) they may also have to consult an endocrinologist-nutritionist. 

Diabetes is also managed by an endocrinologist-diabetologist.

In pediatrics, the endocrinologist takes care of problems related to growth, pathologies of nutrition, calcium and phosphorus (hereditary forms of rickets), congenital thyroid pathologies as well as children with hypoglycemia or suffering from the syndrome of Prader-Willi (characterized by obesity, short stature, and motor difficulties).

The role of the endocrinologist is to make the diagnosis and treat the pathologies and disorders linked to a hormone imbalance. This specialist performs endocrine assessments (blood tests, tests exploring the functioning of the endocrine glands, ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, etc.), obesity, analyzes the results of the various assessments requested and ensures regular monitoring in order to adapt the treatment.This professional is involved in the course of care.The attending physician prescribes consultation with the endocrinologist. 

Students make the choice of this specialty (according to their classification) after the PACES (first year common to health studies) and the 5 years of studies which lead to the ECN (National Classifying Tests),. This specialty includes 4 to 5 years of additional studies which lead to a DES (Specialized Studies Diploma). 

It is important to prepare well for your visit to an endocrinologist so that he can best assess your symptoms and choose additional examinations to make a diagnosis. It is already advisable to note all the symptoms felt (weight loss or weight gain, palpitations, drop in libido, hair loss, concentration disturbances, etc.). Also, make a list of any medications you are taking or have taken. Finally, remember to bring the last blood tests and the last radiological examinations performed.