Obesity

Obesity, or severe overweight, is a chronic, multifactorial disease closely linked to endocrinology. Endocrinology It does not simply arise from excessive calorie intake and lack of exercise, but is the result of a complex interplay of genetic, hormonal, psychological, metabolic, and environmental factors. In endocrinological practice, a differentiated diagnosis plays a central role, as hormonal causes or comorbidities often exist that must be identified and specifically treated.

Causes of Obesity

A typical example is a dysfunctional thyroid gland Thyroid (such as hypothyroidism), which slows down metabolism and can promote weight gain. Diseases of the adrenal gland, the pituitary gland, or hormone imbalances in women, such as within the framework of the PCOS syndrome, can also promote the development of obesity. In endocrinology, obese patients are therefore specifically searched for hormonal triggers or contributors.

Another focus is on the consequential diseases: Obesity is a central risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, disorders of lipid metabolism, high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer. But also psychological stress, sleep disorders (e.g. sleep apnea) and joint complaints often occur. In endocrinological care, these aspects are taken into account holistically.

Therapies for obesity

In addition to diagnostics, individual therapy planning plays a central role. This not only includes nutritional and exercise counseling, but increasingly also medication options that positively influence metabolism and regulate the feeling of satiety. In selected cases, a so-called bariatric operation (e.g. a sleeve gastrectomy or a gastric bypass) may also be considered – always accompanied by careful endocrinological follow-up care.

The goal of endocrine obesity treatment is not only to reduce body weight, but above all to improve metabolic health, prevent secondary diseases, and sustainably increase quality of life. A respectful, empathetic approach is crucial – because many patients have already had a long history of suffering. Endocrinology offers a well-founded, medically supervised approach beyond diets and assigning blame.