When should I seek referral to a Specialist Endocrinologist?  

If you have: pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, ovarian or testicular problems, you should seek specialist advice. 

This will enable you to get the best balance of hormones, correct blood tests and scans and best long term outcomes. Many patients with diabetes are well managed but if the glucose levels are unstable with highs and lows, the average test (HbA1c) above 6.5%, if there is heart, kidney, circulation, nerve or eye disease, you would benefit from specialist review. Obesity can be a serious, life-shortening condition so should be considered for referral if body mass index (BMI) is above 30 kg/m2. Osteoporosis means thin bones which can break more easily. This happens to ladies after the menopause, the elderly and men with hormone conditions. If you have or suspect osteoporosis, consider requesting a referral to benefit from optimal care of your skeleton.

What is Endocrinology?     

Endocrinology is the specialist area of medicine which deals with hormones and the hormone glands such the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, ovary and testicles. Deficiency of the pancreas, which produces insulin, leads to diabetes. Diabetes in children and young adults is usually Type 1 which must be treated with insulin whereas in older adults it is usually Type 2 which may respond to tablets at first. Obesity, which causes many health problems, may be caused and result in endocrine problems. All of these conditions can be helped by an expert endocrinologist. Even if your endocrine condition is stable, it may be useful to see a specialist as many new treatments are being developed which can improve your condition.

What can I expect from the consultation?     

Endocrine diseases are often complex so expect a number of questions to clarify the detail of your condition, physical examination including weight and blood pressure, several blood tests and scans may be required to determine the nature of your condition and treatment. Hormone treatments can take time to change your body so expect follow up appointments over time to monitor your progress, assess treatment side effects and plan ongoing scans and blood tests. A letter will be sent to the referring doctor and tests will be copied to them for their information if you wish.

Who is an Endocrinologist?  

An Endocrinologist is a specialist physician who diagnoses and treats hormone conditions such as thyroid, pituitary, testosterone problems, including diabetes and obesity. Patients with conditions such as osteoporosis (thin bones), calcium and salt problems are also seen. Many endocrinologists are involved in research into endocrine diseases and undertake teaching of students, nurses and GPs.

What kinds of problems may be referred to an Endocrinologist?    

Diabetes, thyroid, calcium, pituitary, parathyroid, adrenal, testicular, ovarian disorders, osteoporosis, obesity, excess sweating and fatigue. 

All patients require a referral from another doctor.

What facilities are available?    

Dr Ulahannan offers outpatient consultation at The Friendlies in Bundaberg, Mater Hospital in Rockhampton and Urraween medical Centre in Hervey Bay. Inpatients can be admitted to the Friendlies hospitals and growth hormone testing can be performed in Bundaberg.

How will be usual doctor be informed?    

After outpatient or inpatient consultations, a letter is sent to the referring doctor. Patients may also request copies of letters or test results (there is a charge for copies).

What are the charges?    

These should be discussed with the practice manager.

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