The Value of an Endocrinologist After 50

Like everything else in the body, the endocrine system undergoes major changes as you age. Once you reach 50, your hormone levels tend to go through major fluctuations. The average onset age of menopause is 51. At this time, many women begin to experience uncomfortable symptoms as a result of their shifting hormones.

What is Endocrinology?

An endocrinologist specializes in treating disorders of the endocrine system. This can be anything from hypothyroidism to diabetes to menopause and growth hormone deficiencies. While your OB/GYN and primary care physician are capable of prescribing some remedies for menopause and other endocrine-related conditions, a specialist provides greater knowledge and expertise that can lead to a more accurate diagnosis and uncover any underlying causes of symptoms that other doctors might miss.

Why You Need an Endocrinologist After Age 50 

When you’re middle-aged, there are a lot of changes that might make you feel like you’re going through a worse version of puberty. From hot sweats to cold flashes, weight gain and mood swings, hormones impact many aspects of our health and bodily functions. Unbalanced or unregulated hormones are linked to many conditions such as diabetes and thyroid conditions. An endocrinologist is able to help you understand how your body is changing now that it’s entering its sixth decade of life. You’ll gain greater insight into your own health and know what to expect in the future.

Your endocrine system changes as you age. People in their 50s are likely to experience a variety of health problems related to their hormones including irregular heartbeat, mood swings, sexual dysfunction, and reduced bone density.

You’ll be receiving top-of-the-line treatment from someone who has committed extensive years of study and practice to treating hormone-related problems.

The Endocrine System Needs Alternative Therapies

Conventional medicine doesn’t always cut it for certain conditions. Many people find that the oral or injectable medications prescribed by their doctors don’t alleviate their symptoms. Rather than relying on home remedies, one should visit an endocrine specialist who can provide alternative treatments.

If you develop thyroid disease or a hormonal problem related to genetics, you may require a unique treatment plan. Hormones are tricky, and a specialist knows how to develop a personalized plan that can target specific symptoms and offer relief, which traditional medicine can’t always do.

Get the Latest Treatments

While all doctors are legally required to stay up-to-date on medical practices and technology, an endocrine specialist will most likely know about breakthroughs and hormonal therapy treatments before your primary care physician. You’ll have access to a more diverse, targeted range of innovative treatments for people struggling with the hormonal effects of aging.

Your PCP’s Treatment Will Also Improve

A specialist works with your primary care physician to come up with the best possible form of treatment. In many cases, people require several different types of medical intervention to treat their symptoms and conditions. You won’t completely abandon your PCP once you start seeing an endocrine specialist, but your doctor will gain valuable input that will help improve his or her treatment plan for you.