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By Melisa Carlucci


Quite often, one glandular disease can contribute to the development of another. It is quite common for an individual who has hypothyroidism to also have diabetes. A Dallas thyroid doctor working at a center for functional medicine, has the knowledge and experience to help those who experience either of these issues.

Endocrinology is the study and tending of conditions resulting from problems in the proper functioning of one's endocrine system. It is made up of a complex network of glands which may have an unhealthy effect on each other. When one part is not performing up to par, others could be strained to compensate, spurring the development of imbalances to be corrected.

The glands are those organs charged with the production of hormones. These are the substances necessary for the controlling of particular bodily functions such a growth and development, reproduction, energy, moods and metabolism. The parts included in the endocrine system are testes, ovaries, parathyroid, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, pituitary and hypothalamus.

One's primary physician typically turns their focus to the endocrine system when an imbalance in hormone production is noticed. The tests run are specially designed to determine what is the issue and just how far it has progressed. Among the conditions commonly attended are metabolic disorders, thyroid diseases, menopause, diabetes, cholesterol disorders, hypertension, osteoporosis, infertility and slow growth.

The completed tests will give the physician the information necessary to formulate an approach that is most appropriate for the patient. Providing this type of care is rather complex due to the nature of the relationship between the glands and the fluctuations in results. Many times, the course of action includes therapy to replace hormones.

The role of the medical practitioner in diabetic care is to assist the patient in understanding how to manage their disease by controlling their blood sugar levels. Glucose control is essential as this imbalance has a major effect on other organs throughout the system. By taking responsibility for the management of their condition, one may improve their own quality of life.




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By Marci Nielsen


These are the medical doctors of New York city who are trained in endoscopy (a minimally invasive diagnostic and surgical technique) with a focus on helping the morbidly obese lose weight. Advanced Laparoscopic Specialists are skilled in gastric by-pass surgery, which reduces the size of the stomach. The operation itself is only a first step in the weight-control program

In spite of what many think, this is not a frivolous field of medicine. Those who are one hundred pounds or more above their ideal weight are prey to severe health complications. Among these are hypertension and other heart conditions, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea. Any of these conditions can be life-threatening. All of them, as well as the excess weight, lower the quality of life for millions of people.

The fact is that obesity makes it impossible to get the recommended amount of exercise, which does not help any weight-control plan. Without exercise, circulation of blood and lymph is compromised and digestion is impaired. This weakens the immune system, so the person is susceptible to many ills. A lack of muscle tone also makes burning calories less efficient, as less are burned for energy and more are stored as fat.

Excess weight places undue stress on feet and joints, making it hard or impossible for severely overweight people to walk freely, much less engage in more vigorous activities. Not being able to exercise makes gaining weight easier than ever. Weight gain is further accelerated if there are hormonal issues. Poor food choices and eating habits also contribute to overweight. In the US, obesity is second only to smoking as a leading cause of death from bad habits. In fact, being sedentary is called 'the new smoking' by health professionals.

Laparoscopic surgery carries less dangers than open incisions. In this technique, long metal tubes called endoscopes are used to allow the surgeon to operate through tiny incisions that may be far from the actual site of the surgery. There is less chance of infection, less pain and scarring, and a greatly reduced time for recovery.

The surgeon views the operating area by means of special lights and cameras that are contained in the endoscope. The advances in technique have made gastric by-pass available to individuals whose health might not make them good candidates for conventional surgery. It has also lessened the risks and brought this solution into favor as weight-control therapy.

The clinics that offer this service also provide comprehensive support. Dietitians and nutritionists hold classes on proper eating habits and good lifestyle choices. Support groups help both before and after surgery and recovery, giving people the encouragement they need for success. Behavioral counselors help people understand the emotional aspects of obesity and the ways that people can cause themselves to fail.

This pre-op and post-op program involves both surgeons and trained professionals, as well as patients themselves. The personalized approach has proved very important in the success of this weight-loss measure. Without lifestyle and dietary changes, people who have the surgery often gain the weight back. With them, a whole new life is possible with everything needed for happiness and health.




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