Adrenal Disease and Pituitary Disorders

Endocrinology

The SMC Physicians Endocrinology team employs state-of-the-art technology alongside an evidence-based methodology to address the diverse range of conditions affecting our patients, such as adrenal disease and pituitary disorders.

Our unwavering commitment lies in delivering exceptional care, aiming to enhance the quality of life for all individuals under our treatment. Our team diligently endeavors to develop personalized treatment plans that integrate the patient’s objectives and health requirements. With board certification and extensive expertise, we are well-prepared to handle the most challenging cases with proficiency and confidence.

What are Adrenal Glands and the Pituitary Gland?

The adrenal glands are two small glands that sit just above the kidneys. They are responsible for producing hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline.

The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized gland located behind the bridge of your nose and below the hypothalamus at the base of the brain. It produces hormones that control growth, metabolism, reproduction, and more. You may also hear it called the “master gland” because it plays a crucial role in regulating and controlling many other endocrine glands in the body.

Adrenal Diseases

Adrenal disease and pituitary disorders are two conditions that can affect the endocrine system, which is responsible for regulating various bodily functions.

Adrenal Insufficiency: This uncommon but life threatening condition, also called Addison’s disease, occurs when the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones. The symptoms include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, nausea, and low blood pressure. Addison’s disease commonly affects people 30 to 50 years of age, but can occur at any age and affects both men and women. Treatment includes hormone replacement therapy to restore hormone levels and regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor progress.
Cushing Syndrome: This condition is caused by excessive levels of cortisol in the body. The symptoms include weight gain, round face, muscle weakness, and mood swings. Treatment may involve identifying and addressing the underlying cause (e.g., tumor), medications to lower cortisol levels, or surgical removal of the adrenal glands. Without treatment, it typically gets worse over time.
Hyperaldosteronism: This hormonal disorder is characterized by an overproduction of aldosterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Aldosterone plays a key role in regulating electrolyte balance and blood pressure in the body. The symptoms can include hypertension, muscle weakness or cramps, excessive thirst and urination, fatigue, headache, and occasionally, low potassium levels.

Pituitary Disorders

Growth Hormone Deficiency: This disorder refers to the insufficient production of growth hormone by the pituitary gland. Common symptoms include slowed growth, short stature, delayed puberty, and low energy levels. Treatment may include regular monitoring of growth and hormone levels and growth hormone replacement therapy through injections.
Hyperprolactinemia: This condition occurs when the pituitary gland produces more prolactin hormone than necessary. Common symptoms include irregular menstrual periods, milky discharge from breasts (in both males and females), and infertility. To treat the condition, your healthcare provider will address any underlying causes, such as tumors, and/or dispense medications to lower prolactin levels.
Central hypothyroidism: This condition happens when your pituitary gland doesn’t release enough thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), causing low thyroid hormone levels. Treatment involves replacing the lacking hormones and monitoring the levels through blood tests.

At SMC Physicians, we understand the complexities of adrenal disease and pituitary disorders, and our dedicated team is committed to delivering exceptional care. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms or have concerns related to these conditions, schedule an appointment with our Endocrinology team to receive accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and expert medical care that aims to enhance your quality of life.