Diabetes
Diabetes Mellitus is a group of disorders that is marked by impaired"¨glucose metabolism and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). There are "¨two major types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes (formerly known as juvenile or insulin dependent diabetes) and Type 2 (adult-onset or non-insulin dependent diabetes). Gestational diabetes refers to diabetes diagnosed during pregnancy, which usually resolves itself after delivery. We provide several self-management programs for our diabetic patients through the Ochsner Clinic Foundation's Diabetes Institute, which is accredited by the American Diabetes Association.
Male & Female Hormone Disorders
Male hypogonadism is the inability or "slowing down" of the production of testosterone. This hormone is needed for male sexual function as well as muscle and tissue regeneration. Sometimes women can have too much testosterone, this can cause masculinization. Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a complex disorder in which a disturbance in several hormones may ultimately cause growth of facial hair, obesity, and skin problems in women. These conditions as well as others are managed by the restoration of the hormones to a normal level.
Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Diseases
Osteoporosis, which means "porous bone," is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue. This leads to bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist. In the United States 10 million people already have the disease and 18 million more have low bone mass (osteopenia), which places them at risk for osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is often called the "silent disease," because bone loss occurs without symptoms. People may not know that they have osteoporosis until their bones become so weak that a sudden strain, bump, or fall causes a break or causes a vertebra to collapse. Special bone density tests can measure bone density in various sites of the body. A bone density test can detect osteoporosis before a fracture occurs, predict your chances of fracturing in the future, and determine your rate of bone loss or monitor the effects of treatment if the test is conducted at intervals of a year or more.
Pituitary Disorders
The pituitary gland is a small bean shaped gland that is located beneath the brain in the base of the skull. It is often referred to as the “master gland” as it controls the secretions of others hormones. These hormones can have a dramatic and broad range of effects on growth and maturation, sexuality and reproduction, and overall metabolism. Occasionally, pituitary tumors occur. While these tumors are often benign, they must be monitored so that they do not eventually press on important nerves and brain tissue.
Adrenal Gland Disorders
The body has two adrenal glands, each measuring ½" x 3" and situated adjacent the top of kidneys. They serve three different functions: (1) the maintenance of fluid and electrolytes, (2) the production of epinephrine and (3) norepinephrine (adrenaline) and, to a lesser degree they influence the function of sex hormones.
Cholesterol Management
The Ochsner Endocrinology Section provides state of the art management of lipid disorders. Cholesterol and triglyceride abnormalities are addressed by our dietitians and with drugs designed to treat specific lipid abnormalities
Thyroid Disorders
The thyroid is the largest gland in the neck. Its shape resembles that of a butterfly with its wings wrapping around the trachea. Its function is to make thyroid hormone. This hormone affects almost every tissue in the body. Its overall function is to regulate the body’s metabolism. Common disorders are hyperthyroidism (metabolism too fast), hypothyroidism (metabolism too slow) and thyroid nodules. Treatment for these conditions may include selective destruction of overactive thyroid tissue, hormone replacement, and identification of the type of thyroid nodule with possible surgical intervention or periodic monitoring.
Nutritional Education
In conjunction with the Ochsner Diabetes Institute, the Endocrinology Section helps patients manage their diabetes through dietary education, coaching and treatments.
