An endocrinologist is a medical doctor with a specialty in treating disorders of the endocrine system, of which diabetes is one. The pancreas, which is part of the endocrine system, is the organ that produces the body’s insulin. When a person develops type 1 diabetes, the pancreas ceases to make enough insulin to properly process the glucose taken in from food. This requires daily insulin from injections or the use of an insulin pump.
Endocrinologists are trained to diagnose and treat diabetes and related conditions, such as thyroid, obesity, or other conditions that involve fluctuations in hormone levels. Though a primary care physician can usually manage general health issues, it is recommended that every person with type 1 diabetes also see an endocrinologist (a pediatric endocrinologist for children under age 18) to help manage their diabetes.
Sources:
What is an Endocrinologist? The Hormone Foundation. Retrieved on November 16, 2008. http://www.hormone.org/public/endocrinologist.cfm
