By Anita Ramsetty, MD, Medical Director Diabetes Services, Roper St. Francis Healthcare
If you’ve visited a doctor to address your “weighty matters” chances are you had a full hormone/endocrine evaluation to help determine the causes of excessive weight gain or difficulty losing weight. Endocrine glands secrete hormones into our bloodstreams distributing them around the body. We often receive referrals to our Roper Endocrinology clinic, specifically related to weight issues. But did you know that obesity itself can bring a variety of endocrine/hormone conditions?
Below are a few issues you may want to consider raising with your doctor during your next visit.
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Low Testosterone in Men
Known as hypogonadism, low testosterone is more commonly found in men who are overweight or obese. It can be a tricky diagnosis to make and some variations from normal are actually expected in men who are obese. This is a treatable condition and can have effects on many aspects of life, including not only libido but also overall energy level and mood in men.
Low Vitamin D
This is fast becoming the new epidemic in some ways, as we are finding that nearly 60 percent of the population in some studies can be categorized as Vitamin D deficient. Individuals who are obese are more likely to be under-treated for this condition because dosing requirements are higher, so your medical team should follow it closely.
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High Cholesterol
Diabetes is often the disease people associate the most with being overweight/obese, but at the top of the list is also high cholesterol. Many people have high cholesterol levels without being diabetic, so the conditions may not always co-exist. Even if you do not have a prior history of diabetes, you should regularly check cholesterol levels, given that high levels are associated with heart disease and strokes.
Addressing your weight gain through diet, exercise and assistance from your doctor can keep those hormones buzzing and in balance.
Anita Ramsetty, MD, is a member of Roper Endocrinology in downtown Charleston.
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