What to do if the endocrine system fails. How to check and restore the endocrine system. Female hormones: analysis

The thyroid gland is part of endocrine system, which produces hormones that affect the immune system, physical activity, nervous and digestive system person. Malfunctions of the endocrine gland, as part common system, lead to dysfunction of organs, and if left untreated, lead to death.

Thyroid diseases can be asymptomatic for a long time, so patients turn to an endocrinologist only when disorders lead to problems that interfere with ordinary life person. The patient begins to experience changes in the shape of the neck, coughing, difficulty breathing, excess weight, excessive protrusion of the eyes.

Symptoms appear depending on the hormonal status of a person. The production of hormones can decrease, a condition called hypothyroidism, or increase, then hyperthyroidism develops.

With hypothyroidism, a decrease in the functionality of the gland and a drop in the level of synthesized substances cause a slowdown in metabolic processes, weight gain, swelling, and shortness of breath.

P With hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland functions in an enhanced mode, which leads to an acceleration of metabolic processes, weight loss, general weakness, V extreme cases To mental disorders, infertility.

In order to check the functioning of the endocrine gland, doctors refer patients for a blood test necessary to study the level of hormones in the blood serum.

Which hormone levels are important to check to make a correct diagnosis? Patients donate blood for total T4, total and free T3, TSH, calcitonin.

Norm for adults and children

The level of thyroid hormones is different in women, men and children. For women during pregnancy, criteria are applied depending on the gestation period.

What standards exist for adults:

• Free T4 for adults from 8 to 22 pmol/l;
• For pregnant women in the first trimester from 10 to 25; in the second and third trimester from 8 to 25;
• TSH up to 61 ng/ml;
• Free T3 for men and women from 3 to 6 pmol/l;

Thyroglobulin is a protein that indicates the presence of benign and malignant tumors, as well as inflammatory processes:

• carcinoma;
• adenoma;
• subacute thyroiditis;
• hyperthyroidism.

Who needs to be tested for T3, T4 and TSH

An analysis for substances synthesized by the endocrine gland is taken under the following circumstances:

• suspicion of a change in hormone levels towards hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism;
• correction of hormone synthesis;
• the appearance of goiter;
• lack of mental and physical development in children;
• hair loss;
• infertility;
• sexual dysfunction in men;
• lack of libido in women;
• amenorrhea.

In addition, the test must be taken if the patient suffers from cardiovascular diseases, unknown etiology, as well as patients with diagnosable systemic diseases, such as lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis.

The test must be taken by pregnant women and women menopause. Testing the functionality of the thyroid gland is necessary for men who complain of sexual dysfunction.

Hormone tests during pregnancy

During the period of bearing a child, a woman’s thyroid gland works under strain, which can lead to disruptions in the endocrine system. The synthesis of what substances is of particular importance for pregnant women?

The most important roles during this period are played by the hormones chorionic gonadotropin and progesterone, which regulate the process of gestation. A decrease in progesterone levels can lead to miscarriage or the birth of a child with abnormalities. A high level of placental substance indicates an ovarian cyst or abnormal development of the placenta.

The norm of progesterone in the first trimester is from 9 to 467 nmol/l, in the second trimester from 72 to 503 nmol/l, on latest dates pregnancy from 89 to 772 nmol/l.

Norm human chorionic gonadotropin during the period of 11 weeks of the fetus it ranges from 20,900 to 292,000 mU/ml, then its level decreases. It is necessary to take a gonadotropin test because high level of this substance after 11 weeks may indicate diabetes mellitus, fetal defects, toxicosis or multiple pregnancy.

Endocrine gland hormones during pregnancy

The synthesis of thyroid hormones in pregnant women depends on the production of estrogens, the increased formation of which leads to the production of a protein that is formed in the liver and has the properties of binding the thyroid group of substances that stimulate the gland.

Wherein general indicator triiodothyronine and thyroxine increases. This trend leads to the fact that when carrying a fetus, only indicators with free T3 and T4. To check the functioning of the endocrine gland, doctors advise women to take a test for thyroid hormones. What tests for thyroid hormones do pregnant women take? Pregnant women need to donate blood for free T3 and T4, TSH and antibodies.

What hormone standards are used to diagnose thyroid function in pregnant women?

The normal range for TSH is 0.5 to 4 µIU/ml. An increased level of thyrotropin in tests indicates primary hypothyroidism; it can be manifest or subclinical.

A high TSH level can also diagnose secondary thyrotoxicosis. A decrease in the thyrotropin level in the tests of a woman carrying a child diagnoses primary thyrotoxicosis or secondary hypothyroidism.

Norm for free thyroxine T4 from 0.9 to 1.9 pg/ml. Low level free thyroxine in blood serum tests of a pregnant woman diagnoses manifest hypothyroidism, high levels of manifest thyrotoxicosis.

The normal level for T3 is from 4 to 8 pg/ml. Exceeding the norm of triiodothyronine is characteristic of thyrotoxicosis in the manifest stage. A low level can be observed with the development of hypothyroidism in the manifest stage.

Indications of antibodies to TPO in blood tests above 35 mU/l indicate disturbances in the functioning of the endocrine gland.

How should you take a test during pregnancy? To check the functioning of the gland and get the correct result, laboratory material is taken in the morning, since hormonal levels at this time it reaches its peak.

Before donating blood, you need to have a good rest; any stress and overwork will cause errors in the results.

Take the test on an empty stomach, you can drink plain water, for the period of laboratory diagnostics It is recommended to avoid medications containing iodine.

Screening for children

A test for the hormones secreted by the gland is performed on newborn babies to check its function and prevent severe consequences congenital endocrine diseases. Identified violations are corrected replacement therapy appointed for life.

What diseases of the endocrine gland are diagnosed in children:

• thyrotoxicosis;
• hypothyroidism;
• thyroiditis;
• Graves' disease;
• cyst or goiter;
• thyroid dysfunction in newborns.

What standards are defined for children:

• TSH for newborns ranges from 1.4 to 16 mIU/l.
• For children who have reached one month of age, the hormone norm is from 1 to 7.8 mIU/l.
• For schoolchildren, the normal value is from 0.7 to 5.6 mIU/l.

Children need to donate blood from a vein prophylactically if the mother has disturbances in the functioning of the endocrine system, goiter, nodes, thyrotoxicosis, thyroiditis, various tumors malignant and benign.

Symptoms in a child such as changes in the shape of the neck, developmental delays, problems with learning, and bad mood should alert parents and serve as a reason to check the child’s health.

Early diagnosis allows you to successfully treat endocrine system disorders and prevent irreversible consequences.

The human hormonal system today works almost the same as in primitive man. Technologically and socially we are developing much faster. But it is the uninterrupted operation of the hormonal system that ensures the survival and adaptation of humanity as a species. Job internal organs, reproductive functions, the cycle of sleep and wakefulness, attraction, pregnancy, childbirth - all this is under the control of hormones and it is almost limitless. Where are hormones synthesized? How does the hormonal system work? When to take hormone tests? Where can I get tested for hormones? How to decipher them? The answers to these and many other questions are in this article.

Hormonal regulation in our bodies

Hormones- group biologically active substances, which are secreted by endocrine glands and non-glandular tissues. Their purpose is to regulate the functioning of the body. Some affect all systems at once, others have specific target organs and target tissues and act only on them.

For example, prolactin, among other things, causes the growth of mammary glands, an increase in the number of lobules and ducts in the breast. This means that there are target tissues for prolactin in the breast. The body's hormonal system is called the endocrine system, which includes endocrine glands, which produce hormones.

Main organs of the endocrine system

Localization is vital important glands may be different. Part is located in the brain, such as the pineal gland, for example, part is concentrated in the chest, lower back, in the lower part of the body, like the ovaries or testes - the human gonads.

1. Pineal gland, pituitary gland, hypothalamus.

2. Thyroid gland, thymus, adrenal glands, pancreas.

3. In women - the ovaries and during pregnancy - the placenta, in men - the testicles.

Although there is no thorough understanding of the mechanism of operation of most hormones, nevertheless, scientists have been able to develop hormonal contraceptives for women, as well as medications to restore healthy hormonal levels.

10 causes of hormonal imbalances in women and men

1. Stress. Hormonal imbalances can cause frequent releases of cortisol, the “stress hormone.”

2. Abuse of diets. Since estrogens are produced in fat tissue, thin girls almost certainly have an imbalance. In order for a woman’s hormonal background to be healthy, she must have at least some fat reserves.

3. Night shift work, lack of sleep or frequent flights between time zones cause a disruption in the daily schedule of hormone levels and general hormonal levels.

4. “Self-appointment” hormonal drugs(hormonal contraceptives for women should only be selected by a doctor).

5. A diet rich in phytohormones. Some foods and drinks contain substances that cause problems in women and men: for example, beer, when it gets into female body, causes the masculinization of women and the feminization of men. This means that men's hormonal balance is disrupted and they become like women: their belly grows, fat is quickly deposited, their breasts enlarge and begin to sag. In women, the disturbances are also noticeable: hair begins to grow above the lips and on the chin and in other undesirable places, the hips become narrower, and the shoulders become wider.

6. Intensive sports activities, physical overload. Disorders in women can begin even after such for a non-obvious reason. In addition, playing sports during menstruation can lead to endometriosis.

7. Heredity. Hormonal disorders in women and men in this case are difficult to treat.

8. Previous infections, especially sexually transmitted infections, can cause hormonal imbalance.

9. Living in an environmentally unfavorable region. Hormonal balance is violated 30% more often in residents of industrial, polluted regions.

Changes in the body, decreased or increased level hormones can cause a wide variety of symptoms of hormonal imbalances: weight loss and weight gain, hair growth in the most unwanted places or hair disappearing from where it should be, acne and dry skin, as well as more serious ones - even infertility.

To the most common symptoms general hormonal imbalances include:

• Sudden weight gain or weight loss not associated with a change in diet;
• Problems with conception;
• Excess growth body hair in women;
• Constant feeling depression without sufficient reason or sudden mood swings;
• Irregular menstruation(menstrual irregularities).
• Severe premenstrual syndrome.

Disturbances in the production of certain hormones in women and men can be caused by:

• Diabetes;
• Sleep problems;
• Trembling fingers;
• Increased sweating;
• Lethargy, apathy;
• Hair loss;
• Changing the timbre of the voice;
• Fast growth hands and feet;
• Changes in facial features.

Acne - acne - also indicates a disorder. In girls and women, it is caused either by too much androgen in the body, or by false hormonal imbalance- when quantity male hormones normal, but the receptors are too sensitive to them and behave as if there are a lot of androgens.

IN adolescence In a girl, hormonal imbalance can cause:

• underdevelopment of the uterus and mammary glands;
• lack of menstruation.

In her life a woman experiences hormonal disorders several times: in adolescence, during every pregnancy - even if an abortion was performed - and during menopause. The mechanism of how hormonal regulation works is not fully understood, but the most common causes hormonal imbalances known in women and men.

List of Hormone Imbalance Tests

Assessing blood test for hormones thyroid gland or other endocrine glands, different clinics and laboratories adhere to different standards and may be considered a deviation from the norm different meanings. Therefore, the interpretation of hormones may differ.

For various disorders, your doctor may prescribe tests for:

• Sex hormones;
• Thyroid hormones;
• Pituitary hormones.

It is important to know!

If a couple is interested in planning a pregnancy, hormone tests are prescribed if disturbances in the functioning of the endocrine glands are detected.

In most cases, blood is taken for analysis, in some cases urine is taken.

Hormone tests during pregnancy

Hormonal disorders in women during pregnancy may have serious consequences, That's why hormonal tests All women pass. However, the list of tests differs and depends on the state of health of the pregnant woman and on past diseases. Changes in hormone levels occur before the mother and fetus begin to feel symptoms of hormonal imbalance, so a timely hormone test, the decoding of which showed deviations, helps prevent serious problems.

What tests are prescribed for everyone during pregnancy?

Chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a female sex hormone that is secreted by the placenta during pregnancy. HCG level is the highest reliable way determine whether pregnancy has occurred. Appears in the blood a week after conception, in the urine one to two days later. Analysis of sex hormones at 16–20 weeks - hCG, estriol and AFP - allows you to evaluate possible deviations in fetal development.

Estradiol- female sex hormone, “responsible” for normal course pregnancy. Concentrations in the blood increase with each week of pregnancy, reaching a peak at childbirth.

Progesterone, like other female sex hormones, is produced in the ovaries and placenta and ensures the normal course of pregnancy. Its decrease indicates that there is a threat of miscarriage.

Free estriol secreted by the placenta. IN in this case the analysis makes it possible to determine how developed and active the blood flow is in the umbilical cord and placenta. Like progesterone and some other female sex hormones, estriol can indicate post-term pregnancy. Also, its concentration is important in cases where there is a suspicion of a child’s developmental delay.

Alpha fetoprotein(AFP) is produced by the fetus. Its level may indicate fetal malformations.

Prolactin stimulates the absorption of calcium, milk production, and development of the mammary glands. An analysis of sex hormones, including prolactin, shows whether the pregnancy is post-term and how well the mother-placenta-fetus system works.

17-ketosteroids(17-KS) is a “processing product” of male hormones, which allows us to indirectly judge their level in the body. If tests for sex hormones show elevated levels of 17-KS, this indicates an excess of androgens, which can lead to fetal death or miscarriage.

Sex hormone binding globulin(SHBG) is a protein that, by binding sex hormones, reduces their activity. Testing for hormones is often accompanied by testing for SHBG. During pregnancy, its level helps to predict the likelihood of complications for the mother and child.

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate(DEA sulfate). Hormone testing during pregnancy often includes determination of DHEA sulfate levels instead of 17-CS. Its concentration can warn doctors about fetal growth retardation, and from the 12th to 15th week it allows assessing the functioning of the placenta and blood flow in the umbilical cord.

Testosterone taken to determine the presence of development of congenital dysfunction of the adrenal cortex.

Tests for thyroid hormones. The results of tests for the hormones produced by the thyroid gland - T3 and T4 - allow us to assess the progress of pregnancy and the development of the child as a whole. If a blood test for thyroid hormones shows a decrease in their concentration, the risk of fetal death increases.

Thyroid-stimulating hormone(TSH) is produced in the pituitary gland. Its target is the thyroid gland, where it stimulates the production of the hormones T3 and T4. Thyroid hormone testing often includes a TSH test, although it is not a thyroid hormone test. Analysis for TSH, T3 and T4 can be interpreted differently based on what standards the doctor adheres to (in the USA alone there are currently 4 standards recommended by various major health organizations).

Tests for sex hormones

If you take hormone tests in different laboratories, the interpretation will be different. This is because different reagents and techniques are used, so take standard indicators where you took the test. A decreased or increased level does not necessarily indicate the presence of a disease or hormonal imbalances in women and men - just retake the tests in another place, taking into account the standards adopted in this laboratory.

Tests for hormones, the norm of which varies depending on age and the phase of the menstrual cycle, should only be interpreted by a doctor. Ask your doctor about where to get your hormones tested.

How and when to take hormone tests?

1.Tests are taken on an empty stomach.

2. One day before the test, you should not have sex, drink alcohol or smoke.

3.The day before the test, limit physical activity.

4. Stress can distort the results - it is best to take tests in a calm state.

5. Upon admission hormonal drugs, tell your doctor about this. Hormone tests are useless if the interpretation was made without taking into account the use of hormonal medications and other drugs that can artificially stimulate or suppress the production of hormones.

Female hormones: analysis

Thyroid hormone tests in men and non-pregnant women

There are only three thyroid hormones: T3 (triiodothyronine), T4 (thyroxine) and calcitonin. However, blood tests for thyroid hormones also include checking the concentration of other substances related to the functioning of this gland.

What tests are done for thyroid hormones? Analysis for thyroid hormones may include: analysis of thyroid-stimulating hormone, total T4, free T4, total T3, free T3, thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG), thyroglobulin, analysis of antibodies to thyroglobulin, to thyroid peroxidase.

Blood analysis thyroid hormone levels may show:

• norm;
• hypothyroidism - too little is secreted;
• hyperthyroidism - secretes too much.

List of symptoms of hormonal imbalance in thyroid gland long, most symptoms are nonspecific, and in 80% of cases, patients do not feel any discomfort at all. Regular ultrasound once a year and a blood test for thyroid hormones can prevent the development of diseases.

It is especially important for children to undergo a blood test for thyroid hormones, since these substances are involved in the processes of tissue growth, the absorption of oxygen by cells, and the development of the body.

Testing for TSH, T3 and T4 is highly advisable for all residents living in regions with increased radioactive background: exposure radioactive iodine causes thyroid disease in the body.

A blood test for thyroid hormones in children helps prevent the development of serious abnormalities

• If a blood test has been performed on a newborn, thyroid hormones are not produced sufficiently, this may indicate the development of cretinism.
• In childhood, hypothyroidism inhibits the growth of the limbs (they become disproportionately short).
• If a teenager has had a blood test done, thyroid hormone production is low, which may explain delayed puberty and weight gain.

Normal hormonal levels for adults (men and non-pregnant women)

Hormone analysis: explanation

If your values ​​differ from those given in the table, you do not necessarily need hormonal restoration- ask for a table with standards in the laboratory where you took the test and check it. For staging accurate diagnosis The whole picture is important, not just the numbers in the analysis table.

A blood test (deciphering) for hormones should be performed by a doctor - do not try to independently determine what is elevated and what is decreased based on data from reference books. For assessment, analysis and treatment of such disorders, find good doctor, preferably one of the leading specialists.

Hormonal imbalance: treatment

In cases where the analysis of male or female hormones shows a hormonal imbalance, treatment, as a rule, involves taking medications based on synthetic analogues hormones. A woman’s hormonal background is stabilized by taking correctly selected COCs and progestin contraceptives - this is real hormonal restoration reproductive system. Hormonal disbalance in women, the symptoms of which are usually clearly visible, may be both the cause and consequence of serious systemic violations.

Hormonal imbalance in women, the symptoms of which are usually clearly visible, can be both a cause and a consequence of serious systemic disorders. Hormonal cycle women should work exactly like a Swiss watch: if you feel that something is wrong, do not hesitate to contact a gynecologist or endocrinologist. He will tell you what hormone tests you need to take and write out a referral.

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Everyone knows that the endocrine system controls quite a lot of functions in the body. This control especially concerns metabolism and cell activity. It should be noted that the endocrine system consists of many organs that produce hormones, the most important of which are the pancreas and thyroid glands, adrenal glands, ovaries and testes. Therefore, disruption of the endocrine system leads to neoplasms in the glands, which, in turn, causes the production of hormones in large quantities. Autoimmune and other diseases whose causes are still unknown (for example, diabetes) are the result of system dysfunction. Many endocrine disorders cause characteristic symptoms in the form of various changes in the body.

Diseases are paired organ which releases hormones. They are located behind abdominal cavity between the kidneys. The adrenal glands consist of an outer part called cortical layer, and the inner or medulla layer. Any problems that arise with the functioning of the adrenal glands are associated with excess or insufficient production of hormones. In cases of cortical disease, the adrenal glands produce too much of the hormone, which can lead to a disease such as Cushing's syndrome. There is also a risk of developing hypertension or hirsutism, increased blood glucose and other symptoms. A deficiency of adrenal hormones can result in skin pigmentation. Most common cause The disease is a tumor in the adrenal glands.

Pituitary gland diseases. The pituitary gland is a gland that is located in the brain next to sphenoid bone, at the level of the nasal cavity. Pituitary dysfunction can have two different symptomatic pictures. Pituitary hormones play an important role in the human body, therefore, regardless of whether they are absent or in excess, their dysfunction leads to a number of anomalies in which the endocrine system begins to malfunction. Dwarfism or gigantism is a consequence malfunction namely the pituitary gland.

Diseases of the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is a small area in the brain that lies midway between the right and left hemispheres of the brain. The hypothalamus, like the endocrine system as a whole, performs many various functions, so that its malfunction can lead to disruption of sleep and body temperature regulation, as well as problems with sexual activity. Insufficient amounts in the hypothalamus can lead to significant losses water in the body, which very quickly leads to dehydration.

Diseases of the thymus gland. The thymus is located behind the sternum in chest. Along with the growth and development of the body, the gland also increases, which atrophies in adolescence. Thus, the thymus plays a fairly important role precisely in initial stage life. Congenital absence of the thymus gland can result in a lack of T lymphocytes and therefore immunity. Thymus in children early age not yet fully developed, resulting in increased susceptibility to infectious diseases.

Diseases of the thyroid gland, which produces iodine-containing hormones, plays an important role in the development, growth and functioning of the entire nervous system. Most problems in functioning are caused by inflammation, hyperthyroidism (excess hormones leads to rapid loss weight gain, diarrhea and rapid heartbeat) or hypothyroidism (lack of hormones leads to weight gain, constipation, apathy, inactivity and dry skin).

The endocrine system is responsible for controlling all major functions in the body, so even the slightest hormonal imbalance requires special attention. Questions regarding diseases of the human endocrine system concern a large number of patients, since hormonal disorders lead to disruptions in the normal functionality of many organs and systems of the human body. In cases where the required treatment is not followed, such negligence leads to very unpleasant consequences.

Hormonal disorders mean: a decrease or increase in height and weight, emotional instability and an unbalanced mental state. The human endocrine system becomes an active participant in the functioning of the body, which means the digestion of consumed food and maintenance healthy condition body. The glands of the endocrine system include: the pituitary gland, hypothalamus, thyroid and gonads.

For example, the pituitary gland produces several hormones, one of which is growth hormone, which affects human height. With an acute lack of such hormones in the body, growth stops, and the body length of an adult is only one meter and twenty centimeters. If the hormone is produced in excess, the body length of an adult exceeds two meters.

Endocrine glands are responsible for the normal functioning of the nervous and immune systems patient and help maintain a good acid state in the body. Thanks to this, hormones are produced that, through chemical reactions, react with the activities of human organs.

Not every disease can become a cause that causes dysfunction of the endocrine glands and hormonal imbalances. In such cases, an endocrinologist will not always be able to help; sometimes it is best to consult a completely different specialist, for example, in case of sexual dysfunction, it is best to contact a urologist or gynecologist; in case of emotional instability, a psychotherapist will help.

In any case, in order to make an adequate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, consultation with a qualified specialist is necessary. Typically, diseases of the endocrine system are associated with either an excess or lack of hormone production, which contribute to the development of pathological processes.

Etiology of diseases of the endocrine system in modern medical practice still too little studied. Pathological changes in the endocrine system may be associated with genetic abnormalities, inflammatory processes and neoplasms, and disorders of tissue sensitivity to hormones. Modern medicine Among the most common diseases of the endocrine system are: diabetes mellitus, toxic diffuse goiter and dysfunction of the gonads.

However, despite all the most modern research methods, endocrine glands and the diseases associated with it still remain the most mysterious and poorly understood, so it is important to adhere to general rules prevention and recommendations from qualified specialists.

Signs and symptoms that are associated with diseases endocrine disorders, are very numerous and can be sharply expressed and can affect almost all areas and functions of the human body. Symptoms that are observed in patients with disorders associated with the endocrine system:

• A sharp decrease or, conversely, a sharp increase in body weight;
• Sudden change of mood;
• Either an increase or decrease in body temperature and fever;
• Increased sweating;
• Menstrual irregularities in women;
• Change in normal heart rhythm;
• Impaired memory and concentration;
• Frequent headaches;
• Fatigue, weakness and drowsiness;
• A constant feeling of thirst, which is mainly observed in patients with diabetes;
• Excessive excitability;
• Decreased sexual desire;
• Frequent urge to urinate.

All higher listed symptoms, are often found in most patients with disorders associated with diseases of the endocrine system. Since these symptoms are not specific, and almost everyone encounters them, it is not necessary to immediately seek help from a professional endocrinologist; it is worth monitoring your health for some time.

Most diseases that cause endocrine glands have external manifestations, they, in combination with the indicated symptoms, can give the most vivid picture of the manifestation of signs of the disease.

Such manifestations are characterized by the following: the patient’s facial expression changes, the size of the brow ridges increases, skin, possibly hair loss or, conversely, excessive growth. Because of unfavorable conditions, which now surround the majority of the country's population, special risk the thyroid gland is affected.

The control implied by the endocrine system is characterized by the age and gender of the person. It also has a significant impact on the normal functioning metabolic process and the central nervous system, and with the help of them, all other vital important functions. Signs characteristic of age are associated with a natural course age-related changes, which can be dramatically disrupted under the influence of internal secretion disorders on the part of one or more endocrine glands.

It happens that due to such a violation, perhaps earlier puberty, which is observed mainly when malignant neoplasms gonads. Removal of such a tumor normalizes the functioning of the gonads. Sexual characteristics are responsible for the sexual differentiation of the body and the development of the sex glands.

A decrease in their functionality implies the development of a special body structure, which is characterized by increased growth in the length of the limbs; in male patients it develops female structure pelvis and no body hair.

Despite all the listed symptoms and signs, it should be remembered that most diseases that affect the endocrine glands are hereditary in nature, so it is worth asking what diseases your closest relatives have. It should be remembered that the symptoms and signs associated with endocrine diseases depend on their type and nature of occurrence, it is important to assign the correct diagnosis and promptly begin to treat these symptoms.

It is very important for the attending physician to diagnose all previously suffered pathological processes which could cause illness. Very often characteristic external signs may indicate the development of a particular disease, for example, overly enlarged lips or ears may indicate acromegaly, and a noticeable deformation of the neck indicates a malfunction of the thyroid gland.

Necessary treatment

In modern medical practice, treatment that involves the endocrine system is carried out using hormonal medicines. In the case where the main causes are excessive or insufficient active participation of the glands, problems associated with restorative functionality arise.

To eliminate the symptoms and first signs, hormones are introduced into the patient’s body, which reduce the excessive activity of the functioning elements of the endocrine system. In particular severe cases, when a person has to remove part of the gland or cut out the organ completely, then such drugs must be taken for the rest of his life.

For prevention, anti-inflammatory and restorative medications are often prescribed. medicines, treatment with radioactive iodine is also used. Of course, the most effective method treatment is surgical intervention, But qualified specialists They try to use this method only in rare cases.

This treatment is used only if the resulting tumor harms the endocrine system. For neoplasms from which the endocrine system also suffers, the method of surgical intervention is used.

Nutrition is selected by the doctor depending on which endocrine gland is damaged. Diet food assigned if not concomitant diseases, which can be aggravated by diabetes, in which case, first, the specialist prescribes a trial diet. Trial menu table:

• Meat and fish – two hundred and fifty grams;
• Cottage cheese - three hundred grams;
• Cheese - twenty-five grams;
• Fermented milk products – five hundred grams;
• Rye bread - one hundred grams;
• Creamy and vegetable oil– sixty grams;
• All vegetables, with the exception of potatoes and beans - one thousand grams;
• Fresh fruits except bananas and grapes - three hundred grams.

For patients who have overweight, for prevention, a trial diet is prescribed, it should contain a low content energy value, this restriction of fat intake contributes to weight loss.

The endocrine system is treatable and with traditional methods, which involve taking infusions from medicinal herbs, this method is designed to receive large quantity herbs such as thyme, yarrow, lemon balm, mint, wormwood, sage, chamomile and many others. Such fees help stabilize metabolic processes and contribute to the intake of important microelements into the body.

Prevention of emerging symptoms and diseases of the endocrine system includes regular intake biologically active and iodine-containing food additives. It should be remembered that it is necessary to comply healthy image life and stick to necessary prevention, in order to minimize and minimize the risks associated with diseases of the endocrine system.

Violations endocrine system are pathological conditions, occurring as a result of improper activity of the endocrine glands or endocrine glands, releasing the substances they produce (hormones) directly into the blood or lymph. Endocrine glands include:

• thyroid and parathyroid glands;

  adrenal glands and glands with mixed function;

  gonads;

  pancreas.

Main role endocrine glands in the body is expressed in their influence on the processes of metabolism, growth, physical and sexual development. Disruption of the endocrine system leads to various violations vital activity of the body. At the core endocrine disorders lies either an excessive increase or decrease in the functions of a particular gland.

Pituitary is considered the center of regulation of the endocrine system, since it produces hormones that specifically stimulate the growth, differentiation and functional activity of certain endocrine glands.

Violation complex functions pituitary gland leads to the development of a number of pituitary disorders: excessive function of the anterior pituitary gland causes acromegaly. Decreased function of the anterior lobe pituitary gland may cause:

Obesity;

dwarf stature;

severe exhaustion;

atrophy of the gonads;

Decreased function of the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland provokes the development Not diabetes mellitus . The patient has copious discharge urine and strong thirst.

Increased function of the thyroid gland is manifested in an increase in its volume. The following violations occur:

Increased heart rate;

emaciation;

• sweating;

  neuropsychic excitability.

With a pronounced increase in thyroid function, protrusion is observed eyeballs or bulging eyes.

Decreased thyroid function is accompanied by a shrinkage of the thyroid gland, slow heart rate, and sunken eyeballs. There is a tendency towards obesity, constipation, dry skin, decreased general excitability, changes in the skin and subcutaneous tissue, which become swollen. This condition is called myxedema.

Promotion adrenal functions accompanied by premature puberty (most often due to the formation of tumors). Downgrade function adrenal cortex V expressed cases gives a picture of Addison's disease ( bronze disease), in which characteristic dark, bronze pigmentation of the skin appears, exhaustion, blood pressure decreases, blood sugar decreases, and the body's resistance decreases.

Increased function of the medulla I adrenal gland causes development arterial hypertension in the form of attacks. An increase in the function of the gonads is rarely observed (usually due to the development malignant tumors these glands), mostly in childhood. The gonads reach their destination prematurely full development. Decreased function of these glands leads to eunuchoidism, increased growth with disproportionate lengthening of the lower and upper limbs, tendencies towards obesity, with the distribution of fat in men according to female type and underdevelopment of the genital organs, lack of secondary hair.

Increased pancreatic function not sufficiently studied. Individual manifestations- persistent decrease in blood sugar, tendency to obesity. A decrease in the function of this gland leads to an increase in sugar levels in the blood and urine, increased urination, and a decline in nutrition (diabetes mellitus).

Regulation of endocrine glands

Regulation of the activity of the endocrine glands is carried out in egetative nerve centers interstitial brain through autonomic nerve fibers and through the pituitary gland under the control of the cerebral cortex. The nervous and endocrine systems are closely interconnected and constantly interact.

Endocrine glands provide big influence pas growth and development of the body, metabolic processes, excitability and tone of the nervous system. Features of the functioning of individual parts of the endocrine system play a large role in the formation of the body in general and its constitutional characteristics in particular.

The natural course of age-related changes in the body can be dramatically disrupted under the influence of internal secretion disorders from one or more endocrine glands.

Reasons for violation endocrine system:

Primary dysfunction of peripheral endocrine glands. Various pathological processes can develop in the gland itself and lead to disruption of the formation and secretion of the corresponding hormones.

Peripheral forms of endocrine disorders. The causes of peripheral endocrine disorders may be disturbances in the binding of hormones to proteins at the stage of their transport to target cells, inactivation or destruction of a circulating hormone, disturbances in the reception of hormones and their metabolism, and disturbances in permissive mechanisms.

An important place among the causes of damage to the peripheral endocrine glands is occupied by infections. Some of them (for example, tuberculosis, syphilis) can be localized in various glands, causing their gradual destruction, in other cases there is a certain selectivity of damage (for example, meningococcal sepsis is often accompanied by hemorrhage in the adrenal glands, viral parotitis often causes orchitis and testicular atrophy, and orchitis may also occur with gonorrhea).

The cause of damage to the glands and disorders of hormone formation are tumors, which can develop in any gland. The nature of endocrine disorders depends on the nature of the tumor. If the tumor originates from secretory cells, excess amounts of hormones are usually produced and a picture of hyperfunction of the gland occurs.

If the tumor does not secrete hormone, but only compresses and causes atrophy or destroys the tissue of the gland, its progressive hypofunction develops. Often tumors are metastatic in nature. In some cases endocrine gland tumors produce hormones that are not characteristic of this gland, it is also possible ectopic foci formation of hormones in tumors of non-endocrine organs.

Endocrine system disorders may be due birth defects development of glands or their atrophy. The latter is called for various reasons, namely:

Sclerotic process;

chronic inflammation;

age-related involution;

hormonally active tumor of the paired gland;

long-term treatment;

exogenous hormones.

Damage and atrophy of the gland is sometimes caused by automune processes(for some forms of diabetes, diseases of the adrenal glands, thyroid gland).

The formation of hormones is disrupted due to hereditary defects in the enzymes necessary for their synthesis, or inactivation of enzymes. In this way some forms arise corticogenital syndrome, endemic cretinism and others endocrine diseases. It is also possible to form in the gland abnormal forms hormones. Such hormones have inferior activity or are completely devoid of it. In some cases, the intraglandular conversion of prohormone into hormone is disrupted, and therefore inactive forms are released into the blood.

The cause of disturbances in the biosynthesis of hormones can be a deficiency of specific substrates included in their composition (for example, iodine, necessary for the formation of thyroid hormones).

One of the causes of endocrine disorders is the depletion of hormone biosynthesis as a result of prolonged stimulation of the gland and its hyperfunction. In this way, some forms of pancreatic islet beta cell failure occur, stimulated by prolonged hyperglycemia.

Increased attention is paid to antireceptor antibodies. It is believed that the mechanisms of production of antireceptor antibodies may be associated with certain features of the immune system itself.

Hormonal disorders

The formation of antibodies may be caused by viral infection; it is assumed that in such cases the virus binds to a hormonal receptor on the cell surface and provokes the formation of antireceptor antibodies. One form of deficiency hormonal effects may be associated with a violation of the permissive action of hormones.

Flaw cortisol, which has a powerful and versatile permissive effect on catecholamines, sharply weakens the glycogenolytic, lipolytic effects of adrenaline, the pressor effect and some other effects of catecholamines. With absence required quantities thyroid hormones cannot normally realize the effect of somatotropic hormone on early stages development of the body.

Endocrinopathies may arise as a result of a violation hormone metabolism. A significant part of hormones is destroyed in the liver, and with its lesions (hepatitis, cirrhosis, etc.), signs of endocrine disorders are often observed. It is also possible excessive activity enzymes involved in hormone metabolism.

Moreover, these disorders are not always based on insufficient or excessive production of the corresponding hormones, but always on the inadequacy of their peripheral effects in target cells, leading to a complex interweaving of metabolic, structural and functional disorders. An endocrinologist will help you understand the causes of the disorder and also select the correct treatment.