Reasons a Child May Need to See an Endocrinologist

Childhood illnesses are extremely difficult, both for the child and the parents. When a child is diagnosed with a condition, or when the child is coping with symptoms unrecognized by the pediatrician, pediatric specialists need to evaluate the child. Depending on the symptoms, the child may need to see a pediatric endocrinologist.

About

• Endocrine glands are the part of the body that keeps hormones at normal levels. When those glands are not operating properly, an endocrinologist is consulted for treatment of the endocrine gland diseases.

Type 1 Diabetes

• Pediatric endocrinologists are qualified to treat a child recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. In addition to providing an initial diagnosis, an endocrinologist can work with children to regulate insulin levels and diet.

Growth Abnormalities

• A child may need to be evaluated by an endocrinologist if he is abnormally short for his age and genetic history.

Obesity

• When a child is suffering with obesity, a pediatrician mibht refer her to an endocrinologist for help.

Genital Abnormalities

• If a child is born with abnormal genitals or if a child has difficulties with ovaries or testicles, an endocrinologist should be consulted. Endocrinologists are qualified to evaluate hormone levels for the purposes of treating the genital abnormalities.