Endocrinologist: What They Do, Conditions Treated, and When to See One

Hormones play a powerful role in every aspect of our health, from energy and mood to metabolism and reproduction. When something goes wrong with your hormones, the effects can be widespread and life-changing. This is where an endocrinologist comes in.

At Integrative Wellness Centers, we specialize in helping patients understand and manage complex hormonal issues using a blend of functional, integrative, and holistic care. While conventional endocrinologists are essential for diagnosing and treating endocrine disorders, many patients also benefit from a more comprehensive approach that looks at lifestyle, nutrition, and root causes.

What Is an Endocrinologist?

An endocrinologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the endocrine system. The endocrine system is made up of glands—including the thyroid, pancreas, adrenal glands, and pituitary gland—that produce hormones to regulate vital functions in the body.

Hormones act as chemical messengers, controlling metabolism, growth, mood, energy, reproduction, and more. When hormones are out of balance, an endocrinologist helps identify the problem and create a treatment plan.

According to the Endocrine Society, endocrinologists undergo years of advanced training in hormone-related conditions and are experts in managing complex endocrine diseases.

What Does an Endocrinologist Do?

Endocrinologists evaluate patients for hormone-related issues and may use:

• Diagnostic tests such as blood work, imaging scans, or biopsies.
  
  
• Medication management for conditions like diabetes or thyroid disorders.
  
  
• Long-term monitoring of chronic endocrine conditions.
  
  
• Guidance on lifestyle changes that can support hormonal health.
  
  

For example, if you are experiencing fatigue, weight fluctuations, or mood changes, an endocrinologist may test your thyroid hormone levels to check for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

At Integrative Wellness Centers, we go further by combining these diagnostic insights with nutrition support, gut health, and stress management strategies for a more complete approach.

Conditions Endocrinologists Treat

An endocrinologist may treat a wide variety of conditions, including:

• Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto’s, Graves’ disease).
  
  
• Diabetes (type 1, type 2, and insulin resistance).
  
  
• Hormonal imbalance (adrenal fatigue, menopause, testosterone deficiency).
  
  
• Autoimmune conditions affecting hormones, such as autoimmune thyroid disease.
  
  
• Metabolic disorders that affect weight and energy.
  
  
• Osteoporosis and bone health issues related to hormones.
  
  
• Reproductive health (PCOS, infertility, menstrual disorders).
  
  

🔗 Read more about how hormones impact your health in our article on hormonal imbalance.

Endocrinologist vs Functional and Integrative Medicine

While endocrinologists provide essential care for diagnosing and treating hormone disorders, functional and integrative medicine takes a broader approach.

• Endocrinologists: Focus on diagnosis, medications, and medical procedures to correct hormone imbalances.
  
  
• Functional/Integrative Medicine Providers: Look deeper into root causes such as gut health, nutrition, toxins, lifestyle, and stress that may be affecting hormone balance.
  
  

For instance, someone with chronic fatigue and irregular cycles might receive hormone therapy from an endocrinologist, but an integrative provider would also address diet, inflammation, and stress to create lasting change.

Both approaches complement one another, offering patients complete care. 

Read more about functional medicine vs Endocrinologist

When Should You See an Endocrinologist?

You may benefit from seeing an endocrinologist if you experience:

• Persistent fatigue, mood swings, or low energy.
  
  
• Unexplained weight gain or loss.
  
  
• Irregular menstrual cycles or fertility issues.
  
  
• Symptoms of diabetes such as increased thirst, frequent urination, or blurred vision.
  
  
• Hair loss, brittle nails, or dry skin linked to thyroid problems.
  
  
• Symptoms of adrenal imbalance like chronic stress or burnout.
  
  

Early diagnosis is critical. Left untreated, endocrine disorders can cause long-term complications. If you suspect a hormonal issue, consulting an endocrinologist is an important first step.

Where to Find an Endocrinologist in Michigan or Anywhere with Virtual Care

If you’re looking for an endocrinologist in Michigan, Integrative Wellness Centers is here to support you. Our team combines the expertise of conventional endocrinology with functional and holistic approaches, ensuring you get a complete care plan.

For those who are not in Michigan, we also offer virtual consultations, making it easy to connect with our providers no matter where you live. This way, you can access expert advice and a personalized care plan from the comfort of your home.

✨ Take control of your health today—schedule an appointment with Integrative Wellness Centers to get started.

Conclusion

An endocrinologist plays a vital role in diagnosing and managing hormone-related conditions. From thyroid disorders and diabetes to reproductive and autoimmune issues, their expertise helps patients regain balance and health.

At Integrative Wellness Centers, we take this care one step further by combining endocrinology with functional and holistic medicine. Whether you’re in Michigan or connecting virtually, our team is here to support your journey to wellness.

🌿 Start your path to balance today—book your consultation with our team and take charge of your health.

FAQ: Endocrinologist and Endocrinology

1. What does an endocrinologist do?
An endocrinologist diagnoses and treats hormone-related conditions such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, and adrenal issues. They use lab tests, medications, and lifestyle guidance.

2. When should I see an endocrinologist?
You should see an endocrinologist if you have symptoms of hormonal imbalance, thyroid disease, diabetes, or unexplained fatigue, weight changes, or reproductive health concerns.

3. What is the difference between an endocrinologist and a hormone specialist?
An endocrinologist is a medical doctor who specializes in all aspects of hormones and endocrine glands. A hormone specialist may include providers who focus on specific areas like menopause, thyroid, or testosterone.

4. Do endocrinologists only prescribe medications?
While medications are a major part of treatment, many endocrinologists also guide patients in lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and stress management.

5. Can an endocrinologist help with autoimmune conditions?
Yes. Many autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or type 1 diabetes, affect hormone function. Endocrinologists are trained to diagnose and manage these conditions.

6. What is the difference between an endocrinologist and a functional medicine doctor?
An endocrinologist primarily uses medical treatments, while functional medicine doctors also focus on root causes like gut health, nutrition, and toxins. Both can complement each other.

7. How do I find an endocrinologist near me in Michigan?
You can search through trusted healthcare directories or visit Integrative Wellness Centers, where we offer both in-person and virtual consultations.