- Endocrine system consists of eight major glands from all parts of the body; they work together to secrete different hormones that regulate our body.
- It plays a major role in many important functions such as constant internal balance (homeostasis), digestion and reproduction
- Endocrine disorders are caused because of malfunctions in the endocrine glands, this happens due to no hormones or too little hormones or too many hormones.
- These disorders can lead to excess weight (abnormal growth patterns), diabetes, thyroid malfunctioning, osteoporosis and high cholesterol levels
Endocrine Disorders and Symptoms
According to NIH (National Institutes of Health), endocrine system disorders will effect the normal growth, reproduction, sexual function, digestion, breathing, blood circulation, metabolism, body temperature and overall well being of an individual. Endocrine disorders may cause different variety of symptoms
Diabetes
- NIH states diabetes as the most prevalent disorder
- The symptoms of diabetes may vary between individuals
- Most common symptoms include blurred vision, excessive, gum infections in your mouth, thirst, skin infections, vaginal infections, gal bladder infections, fatigue
- Hyperthyroidism & Hypothyroidism
- According to Health and Human services department, United States, in 2009 more than 25% of women and 6.5% of men were diagnosed with thyroid, another common disorder of endocrine
Symptoms
- Symptoms of hypothyroidism include muscle or joint pains, weakness, depression, fatigue, constipation, sensitivity to cold and most importantly weight gain.
- Symptoms of hyperthyroidism are increased appetite, nervousness, frequent bowel movements, sweating, irregular menstrual periods, weight loss and loss of concentration
PCOS
- Polycystic ovary syndrome is commonly seen among premenopausal women.
- This can increase the risk of getting high blood pressure, acne, hair loss, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Women may experience problems in becoming pregnant
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
- It will disrupt the normal growth and development among children
- Symptoms include accelerated growth (but ultimately, shorter than average) and premature puberty
- In infants we can see enlarges penis in baby boy and unclear genitalia in baby girls
