Hormones carry messages between organs and help regulate processes such as metabolism, growth, reproduction and mood. Health concerns can arise when the body produces too much or too little of a hormone, or when tissues do not respond to it as expected. Dr. Alexandro Zarruk's areas of care include hormonal homeostasis, the body's regulation of hormones, within the context of cardiometabolic health.
The connection between hormones and metabolism
Hormones help coordinate how the body uses and stores energy. Insulin supports the movement of glucose into cells, while thyroid hormones influence energy use across many organs. Conditions affecting these signals can contribute to changes in blood sugar, weight and other aspects of health.
Because these systems interact, an assessment considers how a hormonal concern fits with your overall medical picture. Diabetes, thyroid dysfunction and polycystic ovary syndrome are examples of conditions that can involve both hormonal and metabolic factors.
When symptoms deserve a closer look
Persistent changes in energy, unexplained weight changes or menstrual irregularities may warrant medical evaluation. These symptoms have many possible causes. A discussion of when they began, how they have changed and whether other symptoms are present helps guide the assessment.
Existing diagnoses and medications also matter. Bringing previous laboratory results and a current medication list can help your clinician understand the pattern and avoid interpreting a new result without its medical context.
Choosing appropriate investigations
An evaluation generally begins with a medical history and examination. Testing is selected according to the suspected condition and may involve measurements of particular hormones or markers of metabolic health. Results are interpreted alongside symptoms and other findings. Different hormonal conditions require different investigations, so the testing plan should answer a specific clinical question.
Depending on the findings, further assessment or input from another specialist may be helpful. The purpose is to establish a diagnosis that can guide care.
Treatment guided by the underlying condition
Treatment depends on what the evaluation identifies. It may involve managing thyroid dysfunction, addressing blood sugar or treating another hormonal condition. Medication, lifestyle support and follow-up may each have a role. Your clinician can explain the expected benefits and monitoring needs of the options relevant to you.
If you have ongoing symptoms or abnormal results that may involve hormonal or metabolic health, contact Dr. Zarruk's office to discuss an assessment.