Why Semaglutide should be used for people with type 2 diabetes rather than those wanting to lose a bit of weight
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 6 MarWhy I'm concerned that many people will see semaglutide as a quick fix in their pursuit to lose a few pounds
How too little or too much of a hormone can affect your body
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 9 FebYour body is kept in balance by your hormones being at the right level. This blog posts explains what happens when your hormone levels are incorrect.
About Phaeochromocytoma
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 5 JanIn this blog post I describe a rare (usually) benign tumour which can develop in your adrenal gland
What is Tetany?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 28 NovWhat are the consequences of an imbalance in your electrolytes?
Endocrine causes of high blood pressure
on Mon 24 OctBlood pressure which doesn't respond to normal medications is called "resistant hypertension". Endocrine conditions can be the cause of this...
Diabetes and pre-eclampsia
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 22 SepThere's a higher risk of pre-eclampsia with all forms of diabetes...
Solving obesity? A new view on an old problem
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 25 AugObesity is a far more complex challenge than we once realised. This blog post explains why it's now believed that diet and exercise are overly simplistic solutions
2022 guidelines concerning the treatment of Menopause
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 21 JulThis blog post explains the latest medical guidelines with links to the relevant positioning statements
Recognising and managing an adrenal crisis in adults and children
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 23 JunWhat is an adrenal crisis, would you know the warning signs and how should you help yourself or your family?
Can thyroid function affect your cholesterol?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 26 MayLow thyroid levels can contribute to having high levels of cholesterol. This blog post explains
The successful development of an artificial pancreas
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 26 AprRecent exciting news about an artificial pancreas began with a journey which started in 1977
Diabetes and skin conditions
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 22 MarDid you know that skin conditions can be an indication of diabetes? This blog post explains.
PCOS medications and what they do
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 17 FebIf you have PCOS, the range of associated medications can be confusing. This blog post should help
The link between your thyroid and your respiratory system
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 20 JanBoth an underactive thyroid and an overactive thyroid may cause respiratory problems. This blog post explains.
“Long Covid” – Could this be triggering diabetic conditions?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 20 DecLong Covid appears to comprise several symptoms instead of being one condition. Could diabetic conditions be included?
Why a diet to reverse diabetes should be taken up on a wider scale
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 25 NovHow a diet developed to reverse diabetes could help to tackle obesity
How continuous glucose monitoring could move into the wellness market
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 21 OctGlucose Monitoring may not be confined to the health market...
Folic acid to be added to flour – should iodine be next?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 21 SepWhy is folic acid so important to our body that it is going to be added to bread? Should iodine be next?
The link between our hormones and athletic performance
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 10 AugDid you know that the endocrine system supports athletes' actual performance as well as their health?
The link between thrush and diabetes
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 13 JulThrush is normally found in warm moist areas of the body but why is diabetes one of its triggers?
The links between diabetes and menopause
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 10 JunDid you know that diabetes and menopause can complicate each other? This is due to the levels of progesterone and oestrogen falling dramatically at this time...
Is there a link between PCOS and an underactive thyroid?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 26 MayWomen with PCOS appear to be more prone to having a thyroid disorder. This blog post examines the evidence...
Obstructive sleep apnoea and your hormones
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 26 AprThere is a definite link between obstructive sleep apnoea and your hormones. Read about this here.
Thyroid Function and Menstruation
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 17 MarYour thyroid helps to control your menstrual cycle which means that both Hypothyroid and Hyperthyroid patients can experience heavy, irregular or even absent periods.
Frozen shoulder and a possible association to thyroid conditions
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 11 FebThose with a thyroid disease - especially hypothyroidism - are more likely to develop frozen shoulder I discuss this here
Why your hormones won’t help you lose weight by skipping breakfast
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Fri 15 JanSkipping meals is not necessarily going to hasten your desired weight loss after Christmas. Here's why...
What do the results of my thyroid test mean?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 7 DecWhen a GP offers a thyroid test do you understand what the TSH results actually mean? This post explains all.
The action of hormones in support of breastfeeding
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 10 NovBreastfeeding is regarded as entirely natural and it’s easy to overlook the fact that this is an amazing evolutionary adaptation supported by complex endocrinological process
The link between Type 2 diabetes and Parkinson’s disease
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 29 OctHow a disease which negatively affects the production and use of insulin may be linked to a disease of the brain.
The impact of diabetes on bone health
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 8 OctWe have become increasingly aware that diabetes impacts in a significantly negative way upon the skeleton. This post explains why this may be the case.
What is neuropathy and how do you know you have it?
Dr Mark vanderpump on Wed 23 SepOver half of diabetes patients may suffer from neuropathy and diabetes is the biggest single cause of neuropathy in the UK.
Weight gain after hyperthyroidism treatment
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 25 AugHas treatment for hyperthyroidism resulted in you gaining weight? In this blog post I explain why that's possible and how that may have happened.
Possible link between COVID-19 and subacute thyroiditis
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 23 JulRecent research indicates that a routine thyroiditis assessment of Covid patients in HICU may well be a good idea. This blog post explains why.
Are there two different types of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 9 JulPCOS varies from person to person and should be treated accordingly. However, some recent research has revealed some interesting information about possible sub types
Obesity and the increased risk of mortality through COVID-19
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 25 JunIn this post I discuss the problem of obesity in the UK (specifically in terms of COVID-19) and the latest research about successfully losing weight
The new normal for prescribing medication
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 9 JunMany patients will have received revised advice about their prescribed medication during the current pandemic. What may not be obvious is what has preceded their letter...
Coronavirus Mortality – the increased risk for people with diabetes
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 26 MayHow much of a risk does Coronavirus present to people with diabetes, and is there a difference between those with Type 1 diabetes and those with type 2? I share the latest research
Lack of sleep and its link to obesity and diabetes
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 7 MayIt's significant to observe that as we're increasingly sleeping for less than the ideal amount, the prevalence for obesity and type 2 diabetes has grown. I explain why in this post
What might the new normal be for our healthcare services?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 28 AprThroughout history all pandemics have been followed by a new order. What might this look like for our healthcare services?
The surprising hormones produced by your body fat
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 22 AprDid you know that your body fat produces hormones?
Coronavirus (COVID-19) if you have diabetes
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Sat 21 MarGiven their higher risk, diabetes patients are naturally anxious to get accurate information about coronavirus (COVID19). So in this post I am addressing their most frequent questions
Coronavirus (COVID-19) – your Thyroid questions answered
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 18 MarThe reference to "any other serious underlying condition" in terms of Coronavirus risk has made many people with thyroid conditions anxious. This post answers the most common questions currently asked of me.
10 key facts and figures about PCOS
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 20 FebIt might surprise you to know that PCOS is the most common endocrine disorder in women of childbearing age. Here are the main facts about the condition.
Cold and Flu Medications – should you be cautious if you have a thyroid condition?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 11 FebWith cold and flu season once more upon us I thought it might be helpful to answer a few common questions about taking medication
Thyroid Cancer – incidence, early symptoms, diagnosis and treatments
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 23 JanFind out more about this endocrine malignancy and at what stage of life it is most likely to appear
Cortisol – what it is and why it’s commonly called the stress hormone
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 7 JanOften called the "stress hormone" the function of cortisol is to ready your body for a flight or fight response. It does this in a number of amazing ways...
A study on the effects of Radioactive Iodine (RAI) on people with hyperthyroidism
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 5 DecShould we be concerned about a recent JAMA network article which covered a retrospective study on the possibility that RAI treatment of people with hyperthyroidism could be leading to a slightly increased level of cancer deaths in those patients?
What is acanthosis nigricans?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 21 NovHas a brown/black line appeared around the back and sides of your neck? Is there a smooth black patch in your armpit or groin. Your body might be telling you that you are insulin resistant...
Could having type 2 diabetes affect my heart?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 7 NovType 2 diabetes can have hugely complex and negative consequences on your health - including your heart health.
Diabetes ketoacidosis – triggers, symptoms and treatment
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 24 OctIn this post I explain the vital importance of using your home urine ketone tests.
How thyroid disease can affect your cholesterol levels
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 3 OctAs October is National Cholesterol Month I thought I would write about the link between thyroid disease and your cholesterol and about how one condition's medication may have unexpected side effects.
Should I avoid soy if I have hypothyroidism?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 24 SepThere seems to be some conflicting advice about whether or not you can eat soy if you have an underactive thyroid. I try to clear up the confusion in this post
Hepatitis C and hypothyroidism
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 10 SepWhy you might have regular thyroid function tests if you are diagnosed with Hepatitis C
Self-monitoring for an underactive thyroid
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 28 AugWhy it's important to monitor your thyroid health on a daily basis rather than simply rely on regular GP checks.
Latest News - Chairman of the London Consultants’ Association
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 29 JulI am pleased to announce that I have recently taken over the Chairmanship of the London Consultants’ Association (LCA)
Online doctor - why you might prefer to speak to your doctor via e-consulting
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 11 JulThe benefits of consulting your doctor via the new online technology are many. In this post I explain why this is now one way of consulting with me.
The possible link between thyroid conditions and pre-eclampsia
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 27 JunCould pre-eclampsia and thyroid conditions be linked? In this blog post i discuss the current theories
Ten of the most important hormones in your body and what they do
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 10 JunIt’s likely that most people never give a second thought to their hormones because they quietly get on with the efficient running of our body and we don’t usually notice what they do until they no longer do it!
Should I go gluten free if I have hypothyroidism?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 23 MayOnline articles and forums can be very persuasive, so what is the current thinking about whether going gluten free is helpful in terms of an underactive thyroid?
Antenatal/postnatal medication for women with thyroid or diabetic conditions
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 9 MayPregnancy puts additional strain on both your thyroid and your pancreas so if you are on medication for thyroid or diabetic conditions these will have to be closely monitored.
Why PCOS can cause acne
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 25 AprIf you have wondered why PCOS can cause acne in some women this post explains...
Is TSH the best test?
Hormones Demystified on Wed 10 AprFor this blog post about the utility of TSH, I am sharing an excellent article from Hormones Demystified which he originally published in April 2019.
Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism and thyroid hair loss
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 4 AprThere are several causes of hair loss but thyroid problems can cause thyroid hair loss. I explain in this blog post.
Your surprising hormones – the role of hormones when giving birth
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 21 MarGiving birth may be one of the biggest challenges to a woman's body but your surprising hormones are working very hard on your behalf.
Yes, it is possible to reverse type 2 diabetes!
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 7 MarNew research has revealed that substantial weight loss can bring about a remission of type 2 diabetes. This post explains why and how
PCOS and struggles to conceive
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 21 FebMost women with PCOS will be able to have a baby but are likely to need help to achieve good fertility levels. This blog post exlpains
What is metabolic syndrome?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 7 FebBelieved to be affecting 1 in 4 people within the UK, metabolic syndrome is a global problem with significant consequences
What is congenital adrenal hyperplasia?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 24 JanIn this blog post I talk about an uncommon adrenal condition that affects babies
PCOS and the importance of managing complications
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 13 DecIf you have PCOS you are at increased risk of a number of complications - but these are preventable as I explain in this blog post
What is a neuroendocrine tumour?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 29 NovThere are a number of different types of neuroendocrine tumours - or NET's - in this blog post I am writing about NAT's tumours within the endocrine system
The effect of diabetes on your body
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 13 NovDiabetes can cause complications to many parts of the body. In this blog post I do a round up of previous posts on the subject
How Can Diabetes Harm Your Oral Health?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 25 OctIt is vitally important to look after your dental health if you have diabetes. Here's why...
Students at University with Type 1 diabetes
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 9 OctIt is stressful enough for most parents to say goodbye to their child as they begin their time at university but it is additionally stressful when that young adult also has Type 1 diabetes.
Gestational diabetes – risks, symptoms, complications and treatment
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 27 SepMost women with gestational diabetes will have no other pregnancy problems and a healthy baby but it is important to be vigilant about the possible onset of this condition
About Diabetic Retinopathy
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 6 SepFind out about the staqes, symptoms and treatment of diabetic retinopathy
The link between an underactive thyroid and hearing problems
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 23 AugIt might surprise you to know that several connections have been found between hypothyroidism and hearing impairment, tinnitus and vertigo.
The connection between PCOS and type 2 diabetes
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 9 AugIt has long been suspected that there is a link between PCOS and type 2 diabetes
Puberty and Hormones
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 26 JulDid you know that puberty is triggered by your hypothalamus? Sometimes this doesn't happen when it should...
Daily injections for type 1 diabetes could be replaced
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 12 JulWe may be looking at a dramatic transformation in terms of insulin-treated diabetes over the next few years
What is Gigantism and how is it caused?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 21 JunThe causes, symptoms and treatments of gigantism.
Diabetes and sexual dysfunction
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 7 JunAs it is Diabetes week from the 11th to 17th of this month. I thought I would write about one of the more sensitive aspects of the condition.
PCOS and hair loss
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 24 MayDid you know that PCOS can cause androgenic alopecia?
Thyroid hormone and heart disease
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 9 MayToo much or too little of thyroid hormone can have an effect on your heart.
15 common myths about thyroid disease
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 26 AprLike many conditions thyroid disease has many myths around it. I dispel the most common ones in this blog post
Skin tags – your early warning sign of insulin resistance
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 10 AprIt is becoming increasingly clear that skin tags may have medical significance in terms of insulin resistance
Why Vegans are in danger of having too little iodine
Why Vegans are in danger of having too little iodine on Thu 22 MarPeople who become vegan are often unaware of the potential risk they run in following a diet which contains little of no sources of iodine...
The symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of late-onset hypogonadism
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 6 MarCould your abnormally low testosterone levels caused by late onset hypogonadism?
The link between our hormones and obesity
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 22 FebObesity is typically blamed on a lack of self control, but in fact this is not the full picture...
The connection between diabetes and hearing loss
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 6 FebStrange though it may seem there has found to be a significant overlap between having diabetes (or prediabetes) and developing hearing loss. Read more here.
Morning sickness and its effect on thyroid function
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 18 JanDid you know that morning sickness is almost certainly endocrine related?
Preparing for a successful pregnancy with a thyroid condition
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 4 JanAre you planning to start a family this year? If you have an undiagnosed thyroid condition it may make it difficult to conceive and can potentially cause some problems during pregnancy...
New advances in diabetes care
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 20 DecBack in June this year NHS England published a new blueprint which focuses on “optimal diabetes care”.
Is hair loss caused by thyroid disorders?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 7 DecUnsatisfying though it is, the answer is maybe. There are in fact many reasons why your hair is thinning or falling out...
The possible link between low iron levels and low thyroid function
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 28 NovI think it’s safe to say that we cannot know everything about every condition, even when we specialise...
The increasing problem of type 2 diabetes in adolescents
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 13 NovAs it is World Diabetes Day on November 14th I thought I would discuss the situation regarding type 2 diabetes.
There’s no such thing as adrenal fatigue
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 31 OctMisinformation and "adrenal fatigue"
Bariatric Surgery and its effect on diabetes and insulin resistance
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 18 OctDid you know that bariatric surgery can actually have a positive effect on how your body uses insulin? Find out how and why here
Milk alternative drinks and too low iodine levels
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 4 OctThe worrying trend of milk alternative drinks...
Worried about thyroid problems in your adolescent teenager?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 21 SepThyroid conditions can hide in plain sight within an adolescent so here's some information to help you.
Diabetes - a most worrying global situation
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 5 SepThere has been a global upswing in diabetes in recent times - you may be shocked at the numbers involved
What are thyroid nodules and how are they treated?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 23 AugFind out about the different types of thyroid nodules and who might be prone to these.
16 UK Endocrine Patient Resources and Support Groups
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 3 AugThere's no need to feel isolated if you're newly diagnosed with an endocrine condition. There's plenty of patient support groups and information available - here's a list...
About anovulation
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 20 JulAnovulation is the term used to describe the inability of the ovary to produce, mature or release eggs (ova).
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and irregular periods
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 5 JulWhy you should seek medical help to achieve regular menstrual cycles when you have PCOS...
Thyroid problems in older patients
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 19 JunIt can be challenging to diagnose thyroid problems older patients not least because they can be misinterpreted as age-related conditions.
About Thyrotoxic Periodic Paralysis (TPP)
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 6 JunA rare complication of hyperthyroidism (usually Graves’ disease), thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) was originally identified in in 1902 and has found to be most common amongst Asian populations
What is a thyroid storm?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 24 MayYou may have heard of a "thyroid storm" - here is a detailed summary of its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
The symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of Hypophysitis
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 4 MayOriginally thought to mostly affect women during or after pregnancy, Hypophysitis is now recognised as a disorder affecting both men and women and over a large age range...
Thyroid Principles explained
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 18 AprYou may hear your GP referring to your T3 and T4 levels. But what exactly are they? This animation explains
Endocrine disorders as a side effect of immunotherapy drugs
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 5 AprThere’s no doubt that immunotherapy drugs are effective, with reports of some cancers simply being “melted away”. However, in some people, the side effects of this unleashes their own immune system to attack healthy vital organs...
What is insulin resistance, how does it affect your body and how is it treated?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 22 MarOne of the factors in the development of Type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance (IR) which is a decreased sensitivity to insulin in tissues which are insulin receptive...
Diabetes and Pancreatic Cancer
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 9 MarGiven that the two conditions are intricately linked I’m sure it will come as no surprise that the management of diabetes when you have pancreatic cancer is extremely challenging because improving one condition can deteriorate the other.
Technology meets testing
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Fri 17 FebMultiple finger prick testing of blood glucose levels has unfortunately been a crucial part of managing type one diabetes but some patients have recently been using a monitoring system
The facts about prolactinomas
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Fri 10 FebThere has been a good deal of concern and confusion about prolactinomas (benign tumours of the pituitary gland) since the sad death of Tara Palmer Tomkinson in February 2017. This is mainly because she had recently revealed its diagnosis.
About Sheehan's Syndrome
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 24 JanInitially described in 1937 by British Pathologist Harold Leeming Sheehan, Sheehan’s syndrome is a rare complication of women losing an exceptionally large amount of blood during or after childbirth.
About diabetes insipidus
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 10 JanAlthough it shares some of its signs and symptoms, this rare form of diabetes is not connected to blood sugar-related diabetes mellitus...
Diabetes and depression symptoms
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 21 DecThere is a close link between diabetes and depression - in fact depression and mood disorders are the most common psychiatric challenge within the community of diabetic patients. It is not entirely clear why this is the case...
Prader-Willi Syndrome
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 7 DecFirst described by Swiss Doctors Prof Prader, Dr Labhart and Dr Willi in 1956, this rare genetic disorder affects about one in 30,000 children.
About Premature Ovarian Failure (POF)
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 23 NovPremature ovarian failure – or primary ovarian insufficiency refers to failure of the ovaries to produce the required amount of oestrogen before the age of 40. It affects 1% of women in the UK
About Acromegaly
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 8 NovA rare clinical syndrome, Acromegaly is caused by an excess of growth hormone (GH) being secreted by the pituitary gland. It’s believed there are approximately 6,000 people in the UK with this condition
About multiple endocrine neoplasia
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 26 OctAs suggested by the name, this condition of the endocrine system can affect several hormonal glands typically the parathyroid, pituitary and pancreas. The condition manifests itself by the appearance of usually benign tumours which cause the affected gland to produce too much hormone.
Diseases of the parathyroid glands - hyperparathyroidism
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 5 OctWhen hyperparathyroidism is present too much parathyroid hormone (PTH) is produced leading to rising blood calcium levels and low blood phosphate levels.
Diseases of the parathyroid glands – hypoparathyroidism
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 27 SepSituated in the neck behind the thyroid the 4 parathyroid glands – which are the size of a rice grain - produce parathyroid hormone (PTH) which plays a significant part in maintaining the correct levels of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D within the body.
Cushing’s disease and Cushing’s syndrome
Mark Vanderpump on Wed 7 SepDiscovered in 1912, Cushing’s disease is named after Harvey Cushing an American neurosurgeon. Cushing’s patients typically have round faces and gain weight around their neck, trunk and abdomen whilst having slender arms and legs.
About Addison's disease
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 24 AugDiagnosing falling cortisol levels, this condition was named after Dr Thomas Addison after he discovered its existence in 1855 due to TB infiltration of the adrenal gland. Addison’s disease is rare with approximately 8,000 UK patients at any one time.
About Charcot Foot
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 10 AugAlthough Charcot foot can occur in connection with a variety of conditions, worldwide it is most commonly associated with diabetes and it’s one of the most serious foot problems that diabetics can face.
The Pancreas and Diabetes
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 27 JulSitting closely behind the stomach, the pancreas plays an important role in the process of digestion and is also responsible for keeping our blood sugars at a safe level.
Prediabetes - what it is and how you can address it
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 13 JulYou may have heard in the media that type 2 diabetes has tripled over the last 20 to 30 years. However it’s only in the past couple of years that the term “Prediabetes” has been officially recognised.
How thyroid disease differs in children
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 30 JunIt can be very challenging to detect either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism in a child. This post flags the warning signs for both conditions
Did you know that thyroid problems can be regarded as disabilities?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 14 JunThyroid hormone replacement is life-long and falls within the definition of the Equality Act 2010 (previously the Disability Act) as without thyroid hormone replacement the hypothyroidism is likely to recur.
PCOS and depression
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 26 MayIf you are suffering from PCOS, I’m sure it will come as no surprise to you that women with the condition are far more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety than the general population.
What is thyroiditis?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 12 MayThyroiditis is the inflammation (not infection) of the thyroid gland. The cause of this can be tricky to spot because a number of individual disorders can cause the thyroid to swell and thyroiditis can cause either high or low levels of thyroid hormones.
The last missing trigger of type 1 diabetes is finally found
Dr Mark Vanderpump, Consultant Endocrinologist on Fri 29 AprIt has long been known that the immune system in people with type 1 diabetes attacked 5 key targets but working out the fifth and final one has taken over 20 years.
Hypothyroidism and Down’s Syndrome
Dr Mark Vanderpump, Consultant Endocrinologist on Thu 28 AprThyroid disease is more common in children with Down’s syndrome than in the general population. By the time they are adolescents around 15% of those with Down’s syndrome will have an underactive thyroid and the frequency continues to rise throughout adulthood.
Love handles may prove useful in curing as well as predicting diabetes
Dr Mark Vanderpump, Consultant Endocrinologist on Tue 12 AprActive research goes on in all areas of endocrinology and one that recently caught the eye of the media was a Swiss study concerning a possible cure for diabetes
Dr Vanderpump leaves the NHS after nearly 30 years of service
Dr Mark Vanderpump, Consultant Endocrinologist on Thu 31 MarHaving devoted nearly three decades of service to the NHS since qualifying in 1987, Dr Vanderpump is now leaving to pursue a different career path in his specialism of endocrinology.
19 Myths about Type 2 diabetes
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 15 MarThe Internet is a wonderful resource but unfortunately it's not always accurate - so today I'm addressing 19 myths about Type 2 diabetes
What the endocrine system does for you
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 29 FebI think it’s fair to say that - until something goes wrong - most people know very little about the medical field of endocrinology and are unlikely to have met the endocrinologists who diagnose and treat any hormone imbalances that arise in the major glands of the endocrine system.
Diabetes in Pregnancy
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 16 FebMany women with type 1 diabetes will have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby but to achieve this will require real commitment on your part.
About congenital hypothyroidism
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 28 JanCommonly referred to as CHT, congenital hypothyroidism is found present in one out of every 3,500 to 4,000 new-born babies and it’s twice as common in girls as boys.
Thyroid disorders and their effect on cognitive function, mood and emotions
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 14 JanA healthy thyroid plays a vital part in brain chemistry, so we should not be surprised that a thyroid disorder can cause unpredictable mood changes. For example those with an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can suddenly feel tense and anxious. They may experience panic attacks, impatience, be overactive and have an exaggerated sensitivity to noise.
10 myths about PCOS
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 29 DecThere are some common myths surrounding the condition of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. There is no “cure” for PCOS but there are ways that you can be helped depending on your symptoms. I thought I would clarify things by debunking those I hear the most:
Discussing Hashimoto's Disease
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Fri 11 DecHashimoto’s disease is more correctly known as “Autoimmune Thyroiditis” (AT) because the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland as a threat to the body. This causes your immune system to produce special antibodies which inflame and destroy the thyroid cells.
Pregnancy and Thyroid Disease
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Sun 29 NovIncreased thyroid levels in the blood can be caused by two pregnancy-related hormones. These are hCG and oestrogen.
What's the difference between Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 19 NovAlthough both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes share the inability to control the normal level of blood sugar, they are two entirely different conditions.
Thyroid problems and trying to conceive
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 3 NovAs it's National Fertility Awareness Week I thought iLd talk a little about how thyroid problems can affect fertility in both men and women.
How to keep insulin levels down for the ideal PCOS diet
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 14 OctYoung women with PCOS often struggle with their weight because of high levels of insulin in their blood. Here's how to tackle that problem in terms of diet.
Hypocalcaemia - description, symptoms, causes and treatment
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 30 SepHypocalcaemia is the term for an abnormally low level of calcium in the body. Although it is an uncommon condition, it is found equally in men and women and can occur at any age. If there’s a low level of calcium in the blood (serum calcium) it can cause problems since it regulates the many processes that make cells work.
About Graves Orbitopathy
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 16 SepIt is common for the onset of thyroid eye disease – referred to as Graves Orbitopathy (or GO) - to occur within 18 months of the onset of hyperthyroidism due to Graves’ disease.
Osteoporosis treatment and its current challenges
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 2 SepOsteoporosis is recognised as a common disease of major importance in day to day health care. It is a disease of our ageing Western civilisation and its consequences - fractured wrist, vertebra or hip - are associated with chronic illness and indeed death. The statistics are pretty thought provoking:
What time should I take my Levothyroxine?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 19 AugThere are very few guidelines in terms of the timing of taking Levothyroxine. Here's the latest thinking
Do I have a goitre?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 4 AugGoitres are a visible thyroid swelling which can occur with an overactive, underactive or normally functioning thyroid gland.
Should all pregnant women be screened for gestational diabetes?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 30 JulWith an average of 7 out of every 100 pregnant women developing gestational diabetes should the UK bbe putting a screening programme in place?
Treatment of Primary Hypothyroidism and the L-T4/L-T3 debate
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 25 JunTreatment of Primary Hypothyroidism and the L-T4/L-T3 debate
The 2015 position statement of the BTA
I’m on Levothyroxine for an underactive thyroid but I still don’t feel well
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 7 MayWhy you may not feel instantly better despite treatment
Could you have Hypothyroidism?
on Thu 30 AprOne million British women have been diagnosed with Hypothyroidism. Many more may not realise that they have the condition.
The importance of maintaining good levels of Iodine
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 16 AprDid you know Iodine controls the metabolic rate, our growth and development AND the development of the brain and nervous system of a foetus?
Can I eat fruit if I'm trying to lose weight?
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Thu 2 AprSo fruit is good for you but fruit sugars are not. Help!
How replacement Thyroxine came about
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 25 MarWe've come a long way since we first solved our thyroid problems with the help of sheep!
About Hypogonadism and those low testosterone levels
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 11 MarChronic tiredness is often due to our breakneck pace of life but, gentlemen, if you are experiencing other symptoms such as loss of hair and libido you probably ought to get a check up...
Vitamin D deficiency and diabetes
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Wed 25 FebA recent Spanish study suggests that the combination of Vitamin D deficiency and obesity may heighten the risk of diabetes and other metabolic disorders
Thyroid Disease and Osteoporosis
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Tue 25 NovWe already know that hormones play an essential role in the development of the skeleton but could hypothyroidism lead to an increased suceptability to osteoporosis?
Type 2 Diabetes and Ethnicity
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 27 OctDid you know that increased risk of Type 2 Diabetes is linked to ethnicity?
Watch your waistline
Dr Mark Vanderpump on Mon 27 OctThere is continued evidence that obesity is a major contributing factor in the onset of Diabetes 2