Carcinoid syndrome describes a set of symptoms caused by a carcinoid tumour that secretes various naturally-occurring chemicals, such as serotonin, histamine and prostaglandins. Symptoms vary, but can include flushing, diarrhoea and wheezing.

Cushing's syndrome is a rare condition in which the body has too much of the hormone cortisol. This hormone has many important roles in the human body. However, an excess of it can have unwanted effects such as weight gain, high blood pressure (hypertension) and bruising easily.

Diabetes insipidus (DI) is caused by a chemical imbalance that hinders the body’s ability to control its fluids. It can cause people to become very thirsty and pass large amounts of urine. If left untreated, the condition can cause life-threatening dehydration.

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening condition caused by a build-up of waste products called ketones in the blood. It occurs in people with diabetes when they have no – or very low levels of – insulin. DKA is most commonly seen in people with type 1 diabetes.

Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that occurs exclusively to pregnant women, marked by high blood sugar levels. These high sugar levels can affect the pregnancy and the unborn baby’s health. The condition commonly settles soon after delivery of the baby, but it does increase the mother’s...

Hyperparathyroidism occurs when the parathyroid glands are overactive and produce too much parathyroid hormone (PTH). In turn, this overproduction of PTH causes high levels of calcium to be absorbed into the blood from the bones and food.

Hyperthyroidism is a condition caused by an overactive thyroid gland. It can lead to an oversupply of hormones that control metabolism, which can cause a wide range of symptoms including a rapid pulse, shaking and hair loss. Treatment involves medication and surgery.

Hypoparathyroidism occurs when the parathyroid glands are underactive and don’t produce enough parathyroid hormone (PTH). In turn, this underproduction of PTH causes low levels of calcium to be absorbed into the blood from the bones and food.

Hypothyroidism is the result of an underactive thyroid gland. It leads to an undersupply of hormones that control metabolism in the body. If hormone levels are not within a normal range, this can affect the whole body, causing a wide range of symptoms and health problems.

Osteomalacia is a condition in which your bones become soft because of a lack of vitamin D. It can make bones prone to fractures and cause widespread bone pain and tenderness. Osteomalacia can be effectively treated by increasing vitamin D levels in the diet and getting regular sunlight exposure.

Precocious puberty is when puberty begins before eight years of age in girls and nine years in boys. It is caused by the early production of sex hormones. It is important to help a child with precocious puberty to cope with their changing body, rather than seeing it as a problem.

Syndrome of Inappropriate Secretion of Anti-Diuretic Hormone (SIADH) is a chemical imbalance that leads to water retention and low salt concentrations in the body. It can cause nausea, incontinence and headaches. Treatment for SIADH varies according to the root cause, but often involves fluid res...

Type 1 diabetes is a long-term condition with impaired control of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It occurs when the pancreas cannot produce the hormone insulin, which normally controls the entry of glucose into cells. Individuals with type 1 diabetes need careful management, including insulin inje...

Type 2 diabetes is a condition that affects the body’s ability to control blood sugar levels, and can lead to serious health problems. Although it is a lifelong condition, it can be effectively managed by controlling blood sugar levels, having regular check-ups and seeking early treatment for any...