Published on 16 March 2026
Understanding your hormones is an important step in taking control of your health, especially if you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms. An endocrinology consultation can help identify what’s happening within your hormone producing glands, but how can you get the most from your appointment? This guide highlights the key questions and ways to prepare so you leave feeling confident and informed.
What is endocrinology?
Endocrinology is the medical speciality that focuses on hormones and the glands that produce them.
Hormones act as the body’s chemical messengers, they travel through the bloodstream to help regulate vital functions such as metabolism, growth, temperature, mood, sleep, stress response and reproductive health.
Hormones affect many parts of the body, so hormonal imbalances can lead to a wide range of health concerns, from thyroid problems and diabetes to fertility issues and bone disorders
Hormones are produced by endocrine glands including the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas, ovaries and testes. When these glands aren’t working properly, you may notice symptoms that affect your energy levels, weight, mood, bone strength or overall wellbeing. Endocrine diseases occur primarily as a result of overproduction, underproduction or an abnormal response of the body to hormones. Sometimes tumours can also arise from these endocrine glands.
What does a Consultant Endocrinologist do?
At Benenden Hospital, our Consultant Endocrinologist helps to diagnose and provide treatment plans for disorders of the endocrine system, which controls hormones. From initial consultation through to follow-ups, they can support you through the monitoring and management of a chronic condition.
Why would I see an Endocrinologist?
Whether you’ve been diagnosed with an endocrine condition by a doctor or you’re experiencing the following red flag symptoms, it’s importance to schedule an appointment:
- Vision problems
- Kidney complications: This can happen as a complication of diabetes or calcium related disorder. These can present as feeling tired no matter how much sleep you get, frequent urination, high blood pressure, swollen face or feet, itchy skin, muscle cramps, changes in the colour of your urine, breathlessness, foggy head and reduced appetite
- Rapid loss or gain in weight
- Tingling hands and feet
- Drastic fluctuations in blood sugar levels: It’s important to note that low blood sugar usually affects people with diabetes and it's rare in people without diabetes. Some early signs of Type 2 Diabetes include peeing and feeling thirsty more than usual, fatigue and losing weight without taking the steps to
- Mood swings
- Tiredness
- Low libido
- Hair (loss or excessive growth)
- Dry skin or acne
- Hormone-related conditions in women can also result in irregular, heavy or painful periods, hot flushes or vaginal dryness
When you already have an endocrine condition that has deteriorated or needs review. Common endocrine conditions include:
- Diabetes
- Pituitary disorders
- Thyroid problems
- Parathyroid and bone disorders
- Adrenal disorders
- Testosterone deficiency
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome
- Obesity
- Lipid disorders
What happens at an endocrinology appointment?
Before your appointment, to support your Consultant further, it’s helpful to keep a record of your symptoms. When did they start? How long does each symptom last? Does anything make them better, or worse?
Bring copies of any recent blood tests or scan results (these may be requested before your appointment), a list of all your medications and any relevant medical records.
You might be seen by our pre-assessment nurse first to measure your height, weight, BMI, blood pressure and heart rate. You may also be asked for a urine sample.
You’ll then speak with our Consultant Endocrinologist. During the appointment, your Consultant will discuss your blood or scan results and highlight any abnormalities. Your symptoms will be discussed in detail and you might be recommended for further specialist endocrine tests. At the end of your appointment, you should leave with a clear idea of your care plan moving forwards and understand the treatment options available to you.
What questions should I ask during my appointment?
Here are some ideas for questions you may wish to ask directly to your Consultant during your appointment. This can ensure you get the most from your appointment.
- Is this condition temporary or ongoing (chronic)?
- What is the primary treatment goal for my condition- cure vs symptom control.
- How soon should I expect to see improvements in symptoms?
- Recommended treatments
- What specific dietary or lifestyle changes (e.g. exercise, diet) should I implement?
- How can I manage my condition at home, work, or school?
- What is my target blood sugar/hormone level range?
- Are there any specific support groups or resources you recommend?
- How often do I need follow-up appointments and lab tests?
- What is the best way to contact you with further questions?
- Do I need to see any other specialists (e.g. dietitian, therapist, surgeon)?
Access support for your endocrinology condition at Benenden Hospital
If you have questions about our private endocrinology service, get in touch via our online enquiry form or Livechat. You can also book your initial consultation online with Consultant Physician in General Medicine, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Dr Sameer Sighakoli or call our Private Patient Team on 01580 363158.