Many of the body’s processes and major functions are controlled and regulated by the endocrine system. The glands in the endocrine system release hormones, which are chemical messengers that help coordinate various activities in the body, such as, growth, development, reproduction, immunity, mood etc. Any imbalance in the production of hormones or abnormality in the gland would require a treatment by an expert endocrinologist.
What is An Endocrinologist?
An endocrinologist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the endocrine system such as thyroid, diabetes, osteoporosis, and other metabolic disorders. The same doctor can also treat conditions related to the pituitary, hypothalamus, and gonads.
Endocrinologists have a specialized training in internal medicine, during which they gain extensive knowledge in the diagnosis and treatment of endocrine disorders. They use a range of diagnostic tools, including physical exams, lab tests, and imaging studies, to evaluate patients with endocrine disorders.
They also work closely with other specialists, such as a primary care doctor to develop and implement treatment plans for patients.
If you are located anywhere in Tricity and looking for the best endocrinologist in the region, you can consider these doctors as they are some of the highly renowned endocrinologists:
1. Dr. Anil Bhansali: Number 1 in our list is Dr. Anil Bhansali. He is an experienced internal medicine specialist and had been the head of the endocrinology department in PGIMER for many years. Currently, he practises at Ginihealth and looks after patients suffering from different endocrine disorders including Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism etc.
2. Dr. Jasmeet Kaur: Dr. Jasmeet Kaur from Ivy hospital has a wealth of experience in treating patients with diabetes and thyroid disorders. Apart from being well-known for her expertise and knowledge, she is well respected for providing patient centric treatment plans.
3. Dr. Gagan Priya: Dr. Gagan Priya from Fortis hospital has a strong track record of providing excellent care for patients with endocrine disorders. She has a high level of knowledge in the field of endocrinology, including the latest research and treatment options which she utilises to offer best treatment to her patients.
Why Would You Need to See an Endocrinologist for Diabetes and Thyroid?
Both diabetes and thyroid are endocrine disorders that can require the expertise of an endocrinologist. Here’s why:
Diabetes
India is referred to as “Diabetes Capital of the world” with approximately 80 million diabetics which accounts for 17% of the total number of diabetic patients globally. It is one of the most common endocrine disorders and can lead to a number of serious health complications if left untreated or not properly managed. Some of these complications include
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Kidney damage
- Foot ulcers
- Nerve damage
- Cognitive decline
Thyroid
Thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism and energy levels in the body. Any imbalance in the thyroid hormone can disrupt vital functions of the body and cause serious complications.
- Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid can cause fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. It can also lead to high cholesterol levels, which increases the risk of heart disease.
- Hyperthyroidism or overactive thyroid can cause weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and nervousness. It can also lead to an enlarged heart, which can cause heart failure.
- Thyroid disorders can also cause goitre, which is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, and can compress the trachea and oesophagus, which can cause difficulty swallowing and breathing.
- In rare cases, thyroid disorders can also lead to thyroid cancer.
When to See an Endocrinologist?
It is generally recommended to see a primary care doctor if you have symptoms of diabetes or thyroid disorders or if you are at risk of developing these conditions. However, if your primary care physician suspects that you have a more complex or severe form of diabetes or thyroid disorder, they may refer you to an endocrinologist for further evaluation and management.
Tips on Finding an Ideal Endocrinologist
- Ask for Recommendations: Even though every person’s needs and preferences are different, asking for recommendations can still be beneficial when looking for an endocrinologist as it can help you find a healthcare provider who is experienced, trustworthy, and has a good reputation.
Your primary care physician is a good starting point for recommendations. They may have personal experience working with endocrinologists, or know of others who have had positive experiences. So, they will likely refer you to a specialist in the area who they personally trust. Additionally, you can also research online or ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have seen an endocrinologist. Once you have gotten recommendations from multiple sources, you can make a decision based on your own evaluation and research. - Research the Endocrinologist’s Credentials: Verify that the endocrinologist you are considering is board-certified in endocrinology. Board certification means that the doctor has passed a rigorous exam and met specific requirements in their field of specialty. Additionally, it’s important to research an endocrinologist’s experience and expertise in treating diabetes and thyroid disorders. Look for an endocrinologist who has a lot of experience in treating patients with similar conditions to yours. You can also research the endocrinologist’s publications, presentations, or research activities, as it will give you an idea about the level of their expertise and involvement in the medical field.
- Read Patients Reviews: Look for online reviews from patients who have seen the endocrinologist, as that will give you insights about the quality of care the doctor provides. Generally good reviews provide information on professionalism of the doctor, their manner of interacting with patients and how well they listen to patients’ concerns. Reviews can also indicate the typical waiting period which can be valuable in making an informed decision.
- Consider Location and Availability: Chronic conditions like Diabetes and Thyroid require frequent monitoring for keeping your condition under control. Therefore, having a local endocrinologist can help ensure that you receive consistent, high-quality care over time. Also, it will make it easier for you to attend regular appointments and follow-up visits. You may not realise but having an endocrinologist that is conveniently located can make a huge difference in case of emergency or urgency. One good way to find a good local endocrinologist is through a google search. You can simply type “best endocrinologist near me” and you will get a list of some of the best endocrinologists in chandigarh or tricity.
- Consider Asking About Telehealth Capabilities: You may not everytime need to see your endocrinologist in person. Sometimes, the condition can be managed by having a virtual visit with your doctor. Therefore, it’s a good idea to ask your healthcare provider if they offer telehealth facilities. Telehealth, which is also known as, telemedicine, allows patients to receive medical care remotely through the use of technology such as video conferencing and remote monitoring. It can be a time-saving option, as you don’t need to take time off work or arrange for transportation to and from appointments. This will give you more flexibility and adaptability with your care.
Final Words
Finding the right endocrinologist can be challenging. However, by taking the time to research and evaluate different options, you can increase your chances of finding an endocrinologist who is qualified, experienced, and well-suited to meet your needs. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, schedule a consultation, and make sure you feel comfortable with the chosen endocrinologist before making your final decision. Remember that early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the development of complications associated with diabetes and thyroid disorders, so take the time to find the right endocrinologist for you.
