The first step is to identify the signs and symptoms of endocrine diseases. Endocrine disorders have subtle symptoms and vary depending on the particular part of an endocrine system that is affected. Symptoms of some common endocrine disorders are:
Diabetes – excessive thirst or hunger, fatigue, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, vision changes, unexplained weight loss or gain
Pituitary disorders – abnormally large lips, nose or tongue, hands or feet, body and joint aches, altered facial bone structure, deepening voice, fatigue and weakness, sexual dysfunction including decreased libido, sleep apnoea, vision impairment, overgrowth of bone and cartilage and thickening of skin
Addison's disease – depression, diarrhoea, fatigue, headache, skin appears to be bronze colour, low blood glucose, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, missed menstrual periods, nausea, vomiting, craving for salt, unexplained weight loss, weakness
Cushing’s syndrome – fat between shoulder blades (buffalo hump), skin discoloration, fatigue, incessant thirst, osteoporosis, frequent urination, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, irritability and mood changes, rapid heart rate, tremors, red or thick skin on the shins, unexplained weight loss
Hyperthyroidism – diarrhoea, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, goitre, heat intolerance, irritability and mood changes, rapid heart rate, tremors, unexplained weight loss, weakness
Hypothyroidism – cold intolerance, constipation, decreased sweat production, dry hair, fatigue, goitre, slowed heart rate, joint and muscle pain, missed menstrual periods, swollen face, unexplained weight gain In some cases, endocrine disorders could be life-threatening. Hence, it is critical to seek immediate medical intervention if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above.