The formative years between birth and adulthood are characterized by tremendous changes.  Many of these changes are determined by hormones that are produced by the endocrine glands in the body. If these hormones aren’t produced at the right levels or introduced the right way into the body, a child may suffer from health issues such as thyroid disease, adrenal problems, difficulty maintaining a healthy weight, obesity, puberty and growth disorders and even certain genetic problems.

At Florida Hospital for Children, our team of pediatric endocrinologists understand all too well that a child’s physiology is very different from adults. As such, their health issues can be fundamentally different as well.

That’s why we have staffed our endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism program with some of the leading pediatric endocrinology experts in the country. They can skillfully diagnose the problem and formulate an effective treatment plan that will address problems head on.

Our Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Program treats a wide range of health issues, including:

• Adrenal gland hypo/hyper function
• Ambiguous genitals/intersex
• Early or delayed puberty
• Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
• Growth problems
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Obesity
• Ovarian and testicular dysfunction
• Pituitary gland hypo/hyper function
• Problems with vitamin D (rickets, hypocalcemia)
• Underactive or overactive thyroid gland

Left untreated, many of these disorders can cause lifelong problems. At the Walt Disney Pavilion at Florida Hospital for Children, it is our goal to minimize the effects so your child can enjoy a normal, healthy life well into adulthood.

Treating Your Child – Physically, Emotionally and Spiritually

Because some of these problems affect sexuality and growth, we also understand the psychological issues that can accompany endocrine disorders. Our care team not only treats the physical problems, but the emotional and spiritual ones as well. As such, your child’s care team may include psychologists, pediatric educators and nutritionists who are specially trained in treating the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of children and young adults.

Of course, you and your child are part of this team. At Florida Hospital for Children we know that you are the ultimate decision maker regarding your child’s care and we will make sure that you understand every aspect of treatments and procedures so you can make informed decisions at every stage.

If you think your child may have endocrine health issues, contact your doctor to schedule a consultation. Many of these problems can have long-term repercussions if not treated while your son or daughter is still a child or young adult.