Adolescent endocrinology

Adolescent Endocrinology at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City: Comprehensive Care for Hormonal Health

Endocrine glands play a vital role in regulating various bodily functions, including growth, development, and metabolism. Endocrine disorders are common among adolescents and can significantly affect their physical and psychological health. Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) in Abu Dhabi provides comprehensive care for endocrine disorders in adolescents through a team of specialist physicians with extensive experience.

Common Endocrine Disorders

Endocrine disorders that may affect adolescents vary, and include some of the most common conditions:

• Diabetes mellitus: A disorder of insulin production or utilisation that leads to elevated blood glucose levels
• Hypothyroidism: Insufficient production of thyroid hormones, which may cause symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and delayed growth
• Hyperthyroidism: Excessive production of thyroid hormones, which may cause symptoms such as anxiety, weight loss, and difficulty sleeping
• Gonadal (pubertal) insufficiency: Insufficient production of sex hormones, which may result in delayed puberty and impaired sexual development
• Adrenal disorders: A group of conditions affecting adrenal gland function, which may lead to symptoms such as high blood pressure or hypoglycaemia

Symptoms

Symptoms of endocrine disorders in adolescents depend on the specific condition, but some general symptoms include:

• Fatigue and tiredness
• Changes in weight (gain or loss)
• Changes in mood or behaviour
• Sleep disturbances
• Muscle or joint pains
• Changes in skin and hair
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Delayed growth or puberty

Diagnosis

Physicians diagnose endocrine disorders in adolescents by taking a medical history, performing a physical examination, and requesting laboratory or imaging investigations, such as:

• Blood tests
• Urine tests
• Genetic testing
• X-rays
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Ultrasound examination

Treatment

Treatment of endocrine disorders in adolescents depends on the type and severity of the condition and may include the following options:

• Pharmacotherapy: Such as insulin or thyroid or sex hormone replacement
• Surgery: In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to treat certain endocrine disorders
• Lifestyle modifications: Such as following a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and ensuring adequate sleep

SSMC: Integrated Care for Endocrine Disorders in Adolescents

SSMC provides comprehensive care for endocrine disorders in adolescents through a team of specialist physicians with extensive experience. The Endocrinology Centre at SSMC is distinguished by offering:

• State-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic technologies and modalities
• Educational and awareness programmes for adolescents and their families
• Regular follow-up to monitor treatment effectiveness

Advice for Adolescents and Their Families

If you are an adolescent experiencing any symptoms that may suggest an endocrine disorder, it is important to consult a physician as soon as possible. Families of adolescents can also play an important role in supporting them.