Endocrine System Articles

Browse eMedTV's wide range of articles related to endocrine system including topics such as hypothyroidism diet, exenatide, and armour thyroid. Use the search box at the top-right corner of the page to find information about other health topics.

Descriptions of Featured Endocrine System Articles

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when a person's thyroid hormone levels are too low. This segment of the eMedTV library discusses this condition in detail, explaining how an underactive thyroid is diagnosed, possible symptoms, treatment options, and more.

Synthroid

Synthroid is a prescription drug that can treat an underactive thyroid and certain types of thyroid cancer. This eMedTV page offers an overview of the drug, including information on how Synthroid works, potential side effects, and dosing guidelines.

Cushing's Disease

Cushing's disease is a hormonal condition caused by a pituitary tumor resulting in an excess of cortisol. This eMedTV article offers an overview of this disease, including information about its symptoms, its diagnosis, and its treatment.

Addison's Disease

Addison's disease is a condition characterized by weight loss, muscle weakness, and low blood pressure. This eMedTV article further discusses the causes of the disease, possible symptoms, and treatments that are available.

Levothyroxine

Available by prescription, levothyroxine can treat an underactive thyroid and other thyroid problems. This eMedTV resource describes how levothyroxine works, explains what you should know before taking the drug, and lists possible side effects.

Acromegaly

Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder that results when the pituitary gland produces too much growth hormone. This eMedTV article discusses this condition in detail, including information on possible symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Armour Thyroid

Armour Thyroid is a prescription thyroid replacement medication. This article from the eMedTV Web site describes Armour Thyroid in more detail, explains how the medication works, and offers tips on when and how to take the thyroid medicine.

Glucophage

Glucophage is a prescription medication that is used to control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. This eMedTV article explains how Glucophage works, lists its potential side effects, and offers some tips on when and how to take it.

Cushing's Syndrome

Cushing's syndrome is a rare disorder that occurs when the body produces excessive levels of cortisol. This eMedTV article discusses causes and symptoms, as well as how the disease is diagnosed and treated, and factors that affect prognosis.

Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide is a medication approved for the short-term treatment of GERD and diabetic gastroparesis. This eMedTV segment offers a more in-depth look at metoclopramide and its effects, dosing guidelines, and potential side effects.

Hypothyroidism Diet

For people with hypothyroidism, diet is not really an issue, although you should limit certain foods. This eMedTV page lists these foods, explains why they should be eaten sparingly, and stresses the importance of a well-balanced diet.

Cytomel

Cytomel is a medication used as a thyroid replacement for people with an underactive thyroid. This eMedTV Web page explains how Cytomel works and offers a more in-depth look at the drug's effects, dosing guidelines, and potential side effects.

Adrenal Insufficiency

In adrenal insufficiency, the adrenal glands stop making hormones that affect bodily functions. This eMedTV article discusses this condition in detail and includes information about the role the adrenal glands play in the body.

Low Thyroid Symptoms

Not everyone has symptoms of low thyroid levels, and treatment may not be necessary until signs do appear. This eMedTV article lists a few signs of hypothyroidism, briefly explains how the condition is diagnosed, and includes a link to more information.

Pituitary Tumor

Autopsy studies indicate that 25 percent of the American population has small pituitary tumors. However, as this eMedTV resource explains, they are usually not cancerous. This page takes an in-depth look at this type of tumor.

Exenatide

Exenatide is a prescription drug that is licensed to lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. This eMedTV page explains how exenatide works to increase insulin production, lists potential side effects, and covers general dosing guidelines.

Hypothyroidism Symptoms and Signs

While a person may not have symptoms of hypothyroidism, the signs can become more obvious if left untreated. This eMedTV resource describes possible symptoms of an underactive thyroid, related medical conditions, and when treatment is vital.

Synthroid Side Effects

Insomnia, chest pain, and difficulty breathing are among the side effects reported with Synthroid. This eMedTV page stresses the importance of contacting your doctor right away if you experience Synthroid side effects, as some can be quite dangerous.