Endocrinology: Science of Hormones and Balance
By: Dhyan Patel Endocrinology Note : This article is part of a student-run educational series on medical specialties, based on research and/or shadowing (in person or virtual), in order to educate other students who are interested in healthcare careers and may lack the ability to shadow specialists in their areas. Background Every system in our body relies on some balance. From the growth and metabolism to mood and energy levels, hormones act as chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream to regulate essential functions. Even small imbalances can lead to significant health problems. Endocrinology is the branch of internal medicine that is dedicated to studying and treating disorders of the endocrine system, the network of glands that produce hormones. Endocrinologists focus on restoring hormonal balance in order to maintain overall health and stability within the body. So, what do they do? Endocrinologists diagnose and manage conditions caused by too much or to...