LITTLE ROCK — Hormones affect the way seniors feel.

Too little or too much hormone production drives pathology, an endocrinologist told a group of about 50 seniors who gathered Aug. 18 at Highlands Plaza to learn about diabetes and the endocrine system. The Schmieding Center for Senior Health sponsored the event.

The thyroid, ovaries, testicles, adrenal glands, pituitary and other organs in the endocrine system may increase or decrease hormone production, Dr. John Baldridge said.

When organs in the endocrine system aren't working properly, producing either or less hormones than the body needs, they cause problems.

Kidney stones may be related to the parathyroid, which regulates how the body uses calcium, he said.

Too little insulin results in diabetes type I and type II.

Other problems resulting from hormone production include short stature, delayed growth and irregular periods, Baldridge explained.

Baldridge, who works with Northwest Senior Health, sees patients with diabetes, thyroid conditions and other endocrine system problems on Tuesdays at the Highlands Crossing Center in Bella Vista. For information or an appointment, call 876-6566 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

News, Pages 21 on 09/09/2009

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