What Is a Diabetes Specialist? – A diabetes specialist is called an endocrinologist. Endocrinologists specialize in the glands of the endocrine (hormone) system. The pancreas is the gland involved in diabetes. The pancreas produces insulin, and problems with insulin are what managing your diabetes is about.
Do diabetics need to see an endocrinologist?
– You should go to see an endocrinologist when you’re having problems controlling your diabetes. Your primary care physician may also recommend that you see a specialist for managing diabetes. Signs and symptoms that your diabetes isn’t well-controlled and may benefit from the expertise of an endocrinologist include:
- tingling in your hands and feet from nerve damage
- frequent episodes of low or high blood sugar levels
- weight changes
- vision problems
- kidney problems
- frequent hospital admissions because of diabetes
Do endocrinologists treat diabetes?
What are the different kinds of endocrinologists? – An endocrinologist may specialize in certain areas of endocrinology called subspecialties, including:
Diabetes and metabolism : Many hormones play important roles in your metabolism — how your body transforms the food you eat into energy it can use. Diabetes is one of the most common metabolic conditions. An endocrinologist can specialize in the treatment of different kinds of diabetes and other metabolic conditions such as obesity, Thyroid disease : Many conditions can affect your thyroid, the butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck. An endocrinologist could specialize in these conditions specifically. Endocrine oncology : An endocrinologist could specialize in cancers that affect your endocrine system. Oncology is a branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Neuroendocrinology : This branch of endocrinology studies the interaction between your nervous system and your endocrine system. For example, it investigates how your brain controls the hormonal activity in your body. Pediatric endocrinology : A pediatric endocrinologist specializes in treating children who have endocrine conditions. Some endocrine conditions affect children specifically, and others can affect both children and adults. Gender affirmation : Gender affirmation can involve multidisciplinary treatment in which endocrinologists play an important role. Endocrinologists can specialize in sex hormone therapy, which is one aspect of gender affirmation. Reproductive endocrinology : Many hormones are involved in sexual functions and reproduction. An endocrinologist could specialize in sexual function and fertility conditions. They may be referred to as fertility specialists. Endocrinology nuclear medicine : This branch of endocrinology focuses on using nuclear medicine to treat certain endocrine conditions, especially thyroid conditions.
Do all diabetics have an endocrinologist?
When to See an Endocrinologist for Diabetes – Your regular doctor can treat diabetes, but they might refer you to an endocrinologist when:
You’re brand new to diabetes and need to learn how to manage it.They don’t have a lot of experience treating diabetes,You take a lot of shots or use an insulin pump,Your diabetes has gotten tough to manage, or your treatment isn’t working.You have complications from diabetes.
You can always ask to go to an endocrinologist, too, even though your doctor doesn’t suggest it first. When you see one, you’ll still need to visit your primary doctor as well. They’ll work together.
How does an endocrinologist test for diabetes?
Accurate Diagnosis of Hormone Disorders – Symptoms caused by hormonal issues — such as fatigue, weakness and more — can look like those of many other common conditions, so correctly diagnosing an endocrine disorder can take a bit of detective work. Once you’ve received a preliminary diagnosis from your primary care doctor, endocrinologists in the Sutter Health network can use a variety of lab tests to measure the levels of various hormones in your body.
Tests to detect diabetes and prediabetes include the blood glucose test and the glycosylated hemoglobin test (A1c). If you’re pregnant, you may receive a glucose tolerance test to screen for gestational diabetes, Several tests, primarily a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) assessment, can show how well your thyroid is working. Other tests can assess for parathyroid conditions. Blood tests for luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) can help to detect female hormonal issues. Tests for total testosterone can pinpoint male hormonal issues. Other blood tests detect levels of hormones, such as cortisol, 17 hydroxyprogesterone, DHEA-sulfate, ACTH, aldosterone, vitamin D, PTH, prolactin and various forms of estrogen, that affect different systems. Tests for thyroglobulin (Tg) levels can monitor thyroid cancer.
Imaging Exams Your endocrinologist may request imaging exams to look at your endocrine system function.
Thyroid ultrasound imaging may be used to look at your thyroid’s structure. A fine-needle aspiration can help rule out cancer in a thyroid nodule. A thyroid scan shows the size, shape and function of the thyroid gland. A radioactive iodine uptake test and scan assess thyroid function by measuring how much iodine your thyroid gland uses and where it goes in the gland. Several hormones can affect your bone density and put you at risk for osteoporosis. A bone density measurement, a simple X-ray, evaluates your bone health. A pituitary gland MRI can reveal abnormalities of that structure. A parathyroid scan checks the glands that lie behind or next to the thyroid. Adrenal CT scan or MRI determines if there are tumors on the adrenal gland. An orbit CT scan checks the area around the eyes for evidence of Graves’ disease, a thyroid disorder.
If a scan shows an abnormality, your doctor may recommend an ultrasound-guided biopsy to remove and evaluate a tissue sample.
What will an endocrinologist do on a first visit?
What is the most common cause of endocrine disorders? Endocrine glands produce and release hormones that control many important body functions, including how the body converts calories into energy to power cells and organs. It influences how your heart beats, how your bones and tissues grow, and even how you can have a baby.
Diabetes, thyroid disease, growth disorders, sexual dysfunction, and a host of other hormone-related disorders are all affected by your hormone levels. There are two main categories of endocrine disorders. A hormone imbalance occurs when a gland produces too much or too little of an endocrine hormone.
Lesions that develop in the endocrine system (such as nodules or tumors) can cause endocrine disease that may or may not affect hormone levels. A feedback system in the endocrine system controls the balance of hormones in the bloodstream. The feedback system signals the correct gland or glands if you have too much or too little of a certain hormone.
- Hormone imbalances can occur if your feedback system cannot keep hormone levels in balance, or if your body does not fully remove them from the bloodstream.
- Increased or decreased levels of endocrine hormone may be caused by a disease, a problem with the endocrine feedback system, a tumor of an endocrine gland, an injury to an endocrine gland, or an infection.
It may also result from a failure of one gland to stimulate another to produce hormones (the hypothalamus, for example, can cause pituitary hormone production to be disrupted). Genetic disorders, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) or congenital hypothyroidism, can also cause this condition.
- The majority of endocrine tumors and nodules (lumps) are noncancerous.
- In most cases, they do not spread to other parts of the body.
- The gland’s hormone production may be interfered with by a tumor or nodule.
- How do you get referred to an endocrinologist? Endocrinologists are typically seen in outpatient settings after being referred by your primary care physician.
If an underlying hormone-related disorder is suspected during an inpatient visit, an endocrinologist could be consulted. There are a variety of reasons why patients see endocrinologists, including diabetes management, thyroid problems, cancer, adrenal disorders, and more.
- Your doctor will likely refer you when there are concerns about diabetes, thyroid disorder, osteoporosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, low testosterone, or endocrine gland cancer.
- What does an endocrinologist do on the first visit? At your first appointment, your endocrinologist will ask about your symptoms, medications, health habits, and family history of hormone-related problems.
Your medical records will be reviewed, and your referring doctor will be consulted. The endocrinologist will also check your pulse, heart rate, and blood pressure during the physical exam. They will examine your skin, hair, mouth, and teeth as hormone-related disorders can affect these areas.
Additionally, they may order blood work or urinalysis, order a biopsy, or order imaging tests such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Your endocrinologist will work with your referring doctor to develop a treatment plan once a diagnosis has been made. For chronic hormone-related conditions, some people will continue to see an endocrinologist.
Why do diabetics see an endocrinologist? Diabetics see an endocrinologist because they are highly specialized in the management of the condition. They work with patients to develop a diabetes management plan that works best for them. Diabetes can be managed long-term with a self-care plan created with the guidance of your healthcare provider.
- It is possible to live a long, healthy life with diabetes if you take care of yourself every day.
- Typical management plans include regular visits to your healthcare provider to monitor blood glucose levels and other health indicators.
- Additionally, your practitioner or care team may suggest a nutritional plan to help you control your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Treatment from an endocrinologist is available at Arkansas Diabetes and Endocrinology Center. For more information, call us. We serve patients from Little Rock AR, Conway AR, North Little Rock AR, Pine Bluff AR, Hot Springs AR, Benton AR, Sherwood AR, Russellville AR, Jacksonville AR, Cabot AR, Searcy AR, Bryant AR, Jonesboro AR, Forrest City AR, Magnolia AR, Camden AR, Malvern AR, Batesville AR, Arkadelphia AR, Clarksville AR, Monticello AR, Heber Springs AR, Morrilton AR, Stuttgart AR, Greenbrier AR, Sheridan AR, and Vilonia AR.
Do Type 2 diabetics see an endocrinologist?
How can an endocrinologist help with type 2 diabetes? – People with type 2 diabetes are usually referred to an endocrinologist if their primary healthcare physician or other healthcare provider feels their expertise is needed. Some common scenarios in which an endocrinologist might be asked to help include the following:
current treatment strategies for diet, activity, and medications aren’t working as expecte insulin treatment is being considered, including insulin pump therapy advice about the likelihood of type 2 diabetes remission complications due to type 2 diabetes that require a different approach to treatment another endocrine disorder has developed (e.g., thyroid disease) sexual function is decreasing concerns about fertility or planning a pregnancy
Endocrinologists work very closely with all members of the diabetes healthcare team. Type 2 diabetes is a complex condition that requires input from many different healthcare providers.
Is it better to see an endocrinologist?
Top Reasons to See an Endocrinologist – There are numerous reasons to see an endocrinologist.As part of a routine physical exam, your primary care physician mayorder tests based on changes in your body since the last visit. Theymay also base this request on your age and/or gender, your familyhistory, or in response to your description of how you’re feeling.Your primary doctor can identify test results that are outside normalranges, but may not have the specialized knowledge necessary tospecifically identify or treat hormonal abnormalities and relateddisorders.
Abnormal blood sugar levels, or symptoms such as excessive thirst, fatigue, weight gain or blurry vision: these are all symptoms of problems with insulin. This is a common reason to see an endocrinologist because your doctor may suspect diabetes—a condition that endocrinologists are best suited to manage.Abnormal levels of thyroid hormone: it’s possible to have too much (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism) thyroid hormone in your system. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, so symptoms might include changes in weight (gain or loss). Other symptoms of thyroid problems include anxiety, hair loss, inability to handle cold temperatures or feeling cold all the time, an enlarged thyroid gland, or lumps that may indicate thyroid cancer. Your doctor may notice these endocrine disorders just by feeling your neck.Low testosterone levels: fatigue, hair loss, depression, and weakness may indicate problems with testosterone in men.Loss of bone density (osteoporosis): as we age, levels of sex hormones, particularly estrogen in women, decline and create conditions that make it difficult for our bones to replace old bone with new bone tissue. This elevates the risk of fractures. OB/Gyn practitioners typically recommend that post-menopausal women over 60 should have a bone density test. An endocrinologist can help manage the condition with medication, along with strength-building exercise and dietary supplements (taken under medical supervision.)Irregular periods, excessive hair growth, cysts, difficulty getting pregnant, and metabolic problems: these may indicate Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, which an endocrinologist should assess.
Your primary care doctor may be able to manage uncomplicated thyroid disorders such as mild hypothyroidism, with medication. But if your body is exhibiting serious abnormalities, lumps or an enlarged thyroid gland, or unexplained changes in weight, your doctor will likely recommend a visit to an endocrinologist.
Why is it so hard to see an endocrinologist?
‘This is due to several factors, including a flat rate on endocrinologists being trained, a rate of about 8 percent per year of retirement, and an increasing incidence of endocrine and metabolic disorders in the U.S. population,’ Reddy says.
What’s the difference between diabetes and endocrinologist?
The Role Of A Diabetology or Endocrinology Doctor Endocrinologists diagnose, treat and manage disorders of the endocrine glands – adrenals, pancreas, pituitary, parathyroid, thyroid, ovaries and testis – and their associated hormones. Diabetologists are endocrinologists who specialise and focus on the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
- Endocrinologists and diabetologists work with all ages and can be involved in acute and general medicine inpatient care.
- Endocrinologists are involved in a variety of clinics such as pituitary clinics, thyroid clinics, oncology clinics, reproductive clinics and general endocrine clinics.
- In contrast, diabetologists typically see newly diagnosed patients with diabetes.
This encompasses patients with type I diabetes, those with diabetic complications and gestational diabetes. Endocrinologists mostly deal with outpatients but are occasionally involved with inpatients due to endocrinological emergencies (such as ketoacidosis and hypercalcaemia), to consult patients in hospital who have coexisting endocrine conditions or complications associated with their condition.
They also follow up with patients’ pre and post-operative management. Both of these specialists work within multi-disciplinary teams including nurses, dieticians, podiatrists, ophthalmologists, nephrologists, geneticists and oncologists (1). The RCP 2014-2015 census showed that there are 833 endocrinology and diabetes consultants, 259 of them are female (2).
A career in endocrinology can involve continuity of care as patients often have long term conditions. Communication and attention to detail is key. Much like any medical speciality, teaching junior staff is routine. Specialists can also work with the public health sector to raise awareness of lifestyle changes to lower the risk of diabetes.
- The future of endocrinology is exciting as more research is focussing on deepening the understanding of the physiology of the endocrine system.
- This can help shift the current management of endocrine conditions.
- Whereas currently lifelong symptom management is used in diseases such as hypothyroidism and type I diabetes, the future holds prospects of cure, negating the need for continuous treatment.
A Typical Week A standard contract for a full time NHS consultant is 10 PAs (programmed activities) per week. This is typically divided into 7.5 PAs for direct patient care and 2.5 SPAs (supporting activities) which are tailored to each doctors’ interest.
PAs includes direct patient contact such as ward rounds and outpatient clinics. SPAs can include teaching, appraisal, audit and research. Specialists usually work in endocrinology and diabetes but some choose to focus on one area. Since the majority of the work is outpatient based, specialists often have multiple outpatient clinics per day.
MDT meetings, referrals, audits, journal reviews and research are typical in the working week. An example of a typical day of an endocrinologist:
- 09:00-12:00 – Thyroid outpatient clinic
- 12:30-13:00 – Lunch
- 13:00-13:45 – Multi-disciplinary meeting
- 14:00-17:00 – Pituitary outpatient clinic
Normal working hours (9-5) apply to outpatient work however many endocrinologists and diabetologists also work in acute/general medicine within their trusts. This involves out-of-hours work with 65% of consultants being routinely on-call at the weekends (1).
The Route To Becoming An Endocrinologist/Diabetologist Entry to endocrinology and diabetes mellitus is possible following the completion of CMT (Core Medical Training) or ACCS (Acute Care Common Stem). Both routes allow for entry to endocrinology but it should be noted the CMT route is 2 years while ACCS is 3 years.
ACCS is commonly chosen by trainees interested in acute care in medical specialities. Upon completion of core training, trainees sit the MRCP (Membership of the Royal College of Physicians) exam. Speciality training for endocrinology and diabetes mellitus is four years, following which trainees can sit the SCE (Speciality Certificate Examination) to gain their CCT (Certificate of Completion of Training).
- In 2018, the competition ratios for endocrinology and diabetes mellitus were 150 applications for 104 ST3 posts, making the competition ratio 1.44 (3).
- It is imperative to show interest when applying to specialities.
- At the student level, this can be done by participating in local university’s endocrinology societies and attending relevant conferences.
At the trainee foundation level this can be done by attending endocrine and diabetes clinics and by being involved in audits and clinical research. The Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism (OCDEM) aims to produce world-class research that increases the current understanding of disease processes and their treatment.
- Diabetes in pregnancy
- Diabetic nephropathy/neuropathy and retinopathy
- Thyroid disease
- Pituitary and adrenal disease
- Reproductive endocrinology
- Neuroendocrine tumours
Research is readily available for interested endocrinologists and diabetes specialists. There is increasing focus on understanding the endocrine system/disorders at a level which allows potential curing of conditions as opposed to lifelong symptom management.
- Earnings NHS consultant salaries are the same for all specialties but vary between Scotland (highest), England, Northern Ireland, and Wales (lowest) and increase with service (up to 19 years).
- In 2020 the salary bands range from £77,779 to £109,849.
- Salaries can be further enhanced with NHS excellence awards.
As with any speciality, there is the potential to enhance NHS earnings via private practice. JRSM reported in 2008 that endocrinology and diabetes mellitus consultants earned on average 21% of their NHS income through private work. This ratio is on-par with public health specialists and is higher than geriatrics 20% and palliative medicine 14% but is lower than renal medicine 24% and rheumatology 33% (4).
For more information on doctor’s salaries within the NHS, please feel free to review The Complete Guide to NHS Pay, Resources The Journal of Endocrinology focusses on endocrine physiology and contains research articles and scientific guidelines. The Journal of Molecular Endocrinology publishes research and reviews relating to the cellular and molecular elements of endocrinology.
Endocrine-Related Cancer is a forum for new investigations for endocrine tumours and hormone cancers (5). Related Job Sources With BMJ Careers
- GP Jobs
- Hospital Jobs
- Psychiatry Jobs
- Public Health Jobs
- Research Jobs
- NHS Jobs in England
- NHS Jobs in Northern Ireland
- NHS Jobs in Scotland
- NHS Jobs in Wales
Other Complete Guides By BMJ Careers
- How To Become A Clinical Scientist
- How To Become A Gastroenterologist
- How To Become A Neurophysiologist
- How To Become A Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
- How To Become An Immunologist
References
- Endocrinology and diabetes, Health Careers.2020, Available from: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/doctors/roles-doctors/medicine/endocrinology-and-diabetes
- 2014–15 census (UK consultants and higher specialty trainees), RCP London.2020, Available from: https://www.rcplondon.ac.uk/projects/outputs/2014-15-census-uk-consultants-and-higher-specialty-trainees
- 4.2018 Competition Ratios,2020, Available from: https://specialtytraining.hee.nhs.uk/Portals/1/Content/Resource%20Bank/Competition%20Ratio%27s/Competition%20Ratios%202018.pdf
- Morris S, Elliott B, Ma A, McConnachie A, Rice N, Skåtun D et al. Analysis of consultants’ NHS and private incomes in England in 2003/4. Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine.2008;101(7):372-380.
- Publications | Society for Endocrinology, Endocrinology.org.2020, Available from: https://www.endocrinology.org/publications/
What is a sugar specialist called?
Endocrinologists are true specialists – An endocrinologist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions caused by changes in hormone levels in your body. If conventional treatments are not as effective as expected, he/she will know what to do next.
Is diabetes endocrine or autoimmune?
Abstract – Autoimmune endocrine diseases are serious disorders that utilize immense health care resources and cause tremendous disability. They include type 1 diabetes mellitus, thyroiditis, Graves disease, Addison disease, and polyglandular syndromes.
What blood test confirms if you have diabetes?
Random Blood Sugar Test – This measures your blood sugar at the time you’re tested. You can take this test at any time and don’t need to fast (not eat) first. A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher indicates you have diabetes.
| Result* | A1C Test | Fasting Blood Sugar Test | Glucose Tolerance Test | Random Blood Sugar Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diabetes | 6.5% or above | 126 mg/dL or above | 200 mg/dL or above | 200 mg/dL or above |
| Prediabetes | 5.7 – 6.4% | 100 – 125 mg/dL | 140 – 199 mg/dL | N/A |
| Normal | Below 5.7% | 99 mg/dL or below | 140 mg/dL or below | N/A |
Results for gestational diabetes can differ. Ask your health care provider what your results mean if you’re being tested for gestational diabetes. Source: American Diabetes Association If your doctor thinks you have type 1 diabetes, your blood may also tested for autoantibodies (substances that indicate your body is attacking itself) that are often present in type 1 diabetes but not in type 2 diabetes.
Will any blood test show diabetes?
HbA1c – An HbA1c test is the main blood test used to diagnose diabetes. It tests your average blood sugar levels for the last two to three months. You don’t need to prepare for a HbA1c, It’s a quick and simple test where a small amount of blood is taken from a vein in your arm.
This is different to a finger-prick test, which is a snapshot of your blood sugar levels at that moment. You’ll normally get the test results in a few days. From these results, your healthcare professional will be able to see if you have diabetes. If you didn’t have any of the symptoms of diabetes before you were tested, you’ll need to have the test again to confirm the result.
You have diabetes if your HbA1c level is 48mmol/mol or above. You are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes (often known as prediabetes ) if your HbA1c is between 42 and 48mmol/mol.
When should a woman see an endocrinologist?
When should a woman see an endocrinologist? Endocrinology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to hormones. Endocrinology covers such human functions as the coordination of metabolism, respiration, reproduction, sensory perception, and movement. Endocrinologists typically treat:
Thyroid Disease Symptoms include sudden weight change, heart rate fluctuation, swelling of the neck, mood or energy swings, hair loss Pituitary Problems – i.e., Diminished fertility and libido, hair loss Adrenal problems Chronic, worsening fatigue and muscle weakness, loss of appetite, and weight loss Ovarian Problems Bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, appetite loss/ feeling full
Symptoms of these diseases are often first addressed by the patient’s primary care or OB-GYN physician. If symptoms persist, patients should consider asking for a referral to an endocrinologist. : When should a woman see an endocrinologist?
What is the most common disease treated by an endocrinologist?
An endocrinologist is a medical doctor who is specially trained in the field of endocrinology, which focuses on hormone-related disorders. These specialists diagnose, evaluate and treat diseases that affect hormones and the glands that create them. Humans produce more than 50 hormones that each play crucial roles in keeping delicate bodily systems in balance, from regulating metabolism and growth to facilitating reproduction and sensory perception.
Diabetes (types 1 and 2) Hypoglycemia Adrenal disorders, including Conn’s syndrome (primary hyperaldosteronism) and Cushing syndrome Cholesterol disorders Addison’s disease Hyperthyroidism Hypothyroidism Metabolic bone diseases such as osteoporosis Disorders related to sex hormones Parathyroid disease
Many of these disorders require highly specialized and lifelong care. Endocrinologists often work hand-in-hand with primary care physicians and other specialists as necessary to help patients effectively manage their conditions and achieve the best quality of life.
What tells a doctor if I have type 2 diabetes?
Diagnosis – Type 2 diabetes is usually diagnosed using the glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test. This blood test indicates your average blood sugar level for the past two to three months. Results are interpreted as follows:
Below 5.7% is normal.5.7% to 6.4% is diagnosed as prediabetes.6.5% or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.
If the A1C test isn’t available, or if you have certain conditions that interfere with an A1C test, your doctor may use the following tests to diagnose diabetes: Random blood sugar test. Blood sugar values are expressed in milligrams of sugar per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles of sugar per liter (mmol/L) of blood.
Less than 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L ) is normal.100 to 125 mg/dL (5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L ) is diagnosed as prediabetes.126 mg/dL (7 mmol/L ) or higher on two separate tests is diagnosed as diabetes.
Oral glucose tolerance test. This test is less commonly used than the others, except during pregnancy. You’ll need to fast overnight and then drink a sugary liquid at the doctor’s office. Blood sugar levels are tested periodically for the next two hours. Results are interpreted as follows:
Less than 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L ) is normal.140 to 199 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L and 11.0 mmol/L ) is diagnosed as prediabetes.200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L ) or higher after two hours suggests diabetes.
Screening. The American Diabetes Association recommends routine screening with diagnostic tests for type 2 diabetes in all adults age 35 or older and in the following groups:
People younger than 35 who are overweight or obese and have one or more risk factors associated with diabetes Women who have had gestational diabetes People who have been diagnosed with prediabetes Children who are overweight or obese and who have a family history of type 2 diabetes or other risk factors
Who can diagnose type 2 diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is often diagnosed following blood or urine tests for something else. However, you should see a GP straight away if you have any symptoms of diabetes, To find out if you have type 2 diabetes, you usually have to go through the following steps:
- See a GP about your symptoms.
- The GP will check your urine and arrange a blood test to check your blood sugar levels. It usually takes about 1 to 2 days for the results to come back.
- If you have diabetes, the GP will explain the test results and what will happen next.
How often should a diabetic see an endocrinologist?
Your Diabetes Care Schedule
Check up to several times a day as directed by your doctor. Keep a record of your numbers and share with your health care team during your next visit. Use a mirror if you can’t see the bottom of your feet or ask a family member for help. Let your doctor know immediately if you have any cuts, redness, swelling, sores, blisters, corns, calluses, or other change to the skin or nails. Diabetes medicines Take the amount prescribed by your doctor, even when you feel good. Get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate activity, such as brisk walking or riding a bike. Eat healthy foods that give you the nutrition you need and help your blood sugar stay in your target range.
If your treatment has changed or if you’re having trouble meeting your blood sugar goals, have this test every 3 months. Doctor visit If you’re having trouble meeting your treatment goals, visit your doctor every 3 months. Your blood pressure and weight will be checked, and your self-care plan and medicines will be reviewed. Ask your doctor to check your feet if you’ve ever had diabetes-related foot problems.
Get your teeth and gums cleaned at least once a year (more often if your doctor recommends), and let your dentist know that you have diabetes. If you’re meeting your treatment and blood sugar goals, have this test every 6 months. Doctor visit If you’re meeting your treatment goals, visit your doctor every 6 months. Your blood pressure and weight will be checked, and your self-care plan and medicines will be reviewed. Ask your doctor to check your feet if you’ve ever had diabetes-related foot problems.
Get a pneumonia shot as an adult before you’re 65 (you’ll need two more doses when you’re 65 or older). Get a hepatitis B shot if you’re 60 or younger and haven’t had the shot before. Talk to your doctor about getting the shot if you’re over 60.
Let your doctor know right away if you’re feeling sad or hopeless so you can get help. New symptoms or health problems If you notice new health problems or if existing problems are getting worse, call your doctor immediately so you can be evaluated.
: Your Diabetes Care ScheduleDo Type 2 diabetics see an endocrinologist?
How can an endocrinologist help with type 2 diabetes? – People with type 2 diabetes are usually referred to an endocrinologist if their primary healthcare physician or other healthcare provider feels their expertise is needed. Some common scenarios in which an endocrinologist might be asked to help include the following:
current treatment strategies for diet, activity, and medications aren’t working as expecte insulin treatment is being considered, including insulin pump therapy advice about the likelihood of type 2 diabetes remission complications due to type 2 diabetes that require a different approach to treatment another endocrine disorder has developed (e.g., thyroid disease) sexual function is decreasing concerns about fertility or planning a pregnancy
Endocrinologists work very closely with all members of the diabetes healthcare team. Type 2 diabetes is a complex condition that requires input from many different healthcare providers.
Do endocrinologists prescribe metformin?
Top 20 prescriptions written by endocrinology specialists –
| Rank | Drug name | Number of 2021 prescriptions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Levothyroxine sodium | 2,462,918 |
| 2 | Metformin hydrochloride | 1,121,321 |
| 3 | Synthroid | 966,128 |
| 4 | Trulicity | 590,135 |
| 5 | NovoLog | 575,514 |
| 6 | Humalog | 549,544 |
| 7 | Atorvastatin calcium | 545,759 |
| 8 | Lantus solostar | 515,177 |
| 9 | Ozempic | 512,450 |
| 10 | Jardiance | 461,963 |
| 11 | Methimazole | 388,811 |
| 12 | Euthyrox | 387,876 |
| 13 | Tresiba | 295,069 |
| 14 | Glimepiride | 294,753 |
| 15 | Metformin | 270,580 |
| 16 | Lisinopril | 268,259 |
| 17 | Rosuvastatin calcium | 255,334 |
| 18 | BASAGLAR | 247,013 |
| 19 | Glipizide | 246,094 |
| 20 | Liothyronine sodium | 245,347 |
Fig.1 Data from the Definitive Healthcare ClaimsRx product. Claims data is sourced from multiple medical claims clearinghouses in the United States and updated monthly. Data accurate as of May 2022. With nearly 2.5 million prescriptions, levothyroxine sodium is the medication most prescribed by endocrinologists.
Why would you be sent to an endocrinologist?
What Does an Endocrinologist Do? – Endocrinologists specialize in treating disorders of the endocrine system, the network of hormone-producing glands in your body. Endocrinologists are qualified to diagnose and treat conditions like diabetes, thyroid diseases, infertility, growth issues, metabolic disorders, osteoporosis, some cancers, and disorders in the hormone-producing adrenal glands and pituitary glands.