An endocrinologist is a specially trained doctor. Endocrinologists diagnose diseases that affect your glands. They know how to treat these conditions, which are often complex and involve many systems and structures within your body. Your regular doctor refers you to an endocrinologist when you have a problem with your endocrine system.

What is the endocrine system?
Your endocrine system is a system of glands. Glands are organs that make hormones. These are substances that help to control activities in your body. Hormones control reproduction, metabolism (food burning and waste elimination), and growth and development. Hormones also control the way you respond to your surroundings. They help to provide the proper amount of energy and nutrition. The endocrine glands include the thyroid, parathyroid, pancreas, ovaries, testes, adrenal, pituitary and hypothalamus.

What do endocrinologists do?
Endocrinologists are trained to recognize and uncover hormone problems. They help to restore the natural balance of hormones in your system. Endocrinologists also conduct basic research to learn the secrets of glands. Clinical research helps them learn the best ways to treat patients. Endocrinologists develop new drugs and treatments for hormone problems. They take care of many functions and problems:
diabetes
thyroid diseases
metabolism
hormonal imbalances
menopause
osteoporosis
hypertension
cholesterol (lipid) disorders
infertility and birth control
shortness (short stature)
cancers of the glands

What type of medical training do endocrinologists receive?
Endocrinologists finish four years of medical school. They spend three or four years in an internship and residency program. These specialty programs cover internal medicine, pediatrics, or obstetrics and gynecology. They spend two or three more years learning how to diagnose and treat hormone conditions.