In addition to seeing patients with diabetes and metabolic syndrome, Dr. Nath treats patients with a variety of other endocrine disorders.

The thyroid gland makes thyroid hormone. This hormone regulates the body’s metabolism. Some people’s thyroid glands may produce too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism). Sometimes the thyroid may swell or grow, as with thyroiditis or goiter, or it may develop nodules, which are often benign. Many of the common problems of the thyroid can be managed using medication to help regulate the amount of thyroid hormone being produced.

Lipid disorders refer to disorders in which there is an excess of fatty substances in the blood, such as high cholesterol or high triglycerides. These can lead to heart disease, heart attack, or stroke. Lipid disorders can often be managed with diet and lifestyle changes, but they may require use of certain medications if lipid levels are very high or if lifestyle changes have not helped.

PCOS is a metabolic problem affecting women’s hormones and reproductive system. This syndrome also increases the risk of metabolic syndrome, diabetes, heart disease, and endometrial cancer. Women with PCOS have irregular or no menstrual cycles, higher than usual levels of male hormones (androgens), and may have ovarian cysts. This condition can be managed using medications to regulate insulin resistance, such as metformin, with birth control pills, and with other treatments.

Patients with osteoporosis have bones that become fragile, loose strength and density, and become more likely to break. Many patients are unaware they have osteoporosis. Patients can prevent osteoporosis by choosing foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, exercising (particularly with weights or resistance training), avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol intake. Some patients may require medication to help maintain bone density.