A:
An endocrinologist is a medical doctor who stud-
ies and treats the diseases and disorders of the
endocrine system. The endocrine system is a complex
group of glands including the thyroid, parathyroid,
pancreas, ovaries, testes, adrenal, pituitary, and hypo-
thalamus. These glands create hormones that control
activities in your body like reproduction, metabolism,
growth and development. They can also control the way
you respond to your environment, and they affect your
energy levels. Endocrinologists have completed many
years of specialized education and training in diagnosing
and treating endocrine diseases involving the secreting
or excreting hormones, such as diabetes.
T H E I N S U L I N C O N N E C T I O N
Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that is es-
sential for life and controls blood glucose levels in the
body. Diabetes occurs when a person no longer makes
enough insulin or loses the ability to make any insulin.
Though your primary care physician has knowledge
regarding the diabetes treatment and management, an
endocrinologist’s specialized training and expertise can
help you and your physician develop an optimal treat-
ment plan individualized for your specifc needs. An
endocrinologist will also work closely with a team of
certifed diabetes educators to help patients learn how
to self-manage their disease process.
An endocrinologist has the knowledge and tools to
help you better manage your diabetes. He or she can
work closely with you, your
physician and your diabetes
educator to develop diabetes
medication regimens and a
self-management plan that
can meet both your individual,
medical and lifestyle needs.
Maria R. Rodebaugh, M.D., F.A.C.E., is
the medical director for the Kootenai
Diabetes and Endocrinology Center.
Q:
I have diabetes, and my doctor suggested
that I see an endocrinologist. Why?
D I S C O V E R
For more about diabetes and endocrinology,
visit
KootenaiHealth.org/Diabetes
.
ASK THE EXPERT
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