Tag: Endocrinology

Hoffmann's syndrome, a rare manifestation of hypothyroid myopathy, affects adults and can cause significant muscle weakness and stiffness. However, the term 'Hoffmann's condition' can be ambiguous, encompassing a reflex test used in neurological exams. This article will clarify these different concepts and explain how they are related to general health and diagnosis.

According to genetic studies, up to 80% of a person's final height is determined by hereditary factors. Understanding these biological realities is key to exploring the question of how to stop height from increasing, which is largely not feasible for healthy individuals.

Studies suggest that key hormones, including testosterone in men and estrogen and progesterone in women, begin to decline gradually for many individuals as early as their 20s. Understanding these shifts is crucial, so **what age should I check my hormone levels** to stay ahead of potential health changes?

The human body has an estimated 2 to 4 million sweat glands, a complex system vital for survival. This intricate process, known as thermoregulation, is controlled by a fascinating internal communication network. Understanding what signals your body to sweat reveals a deeper appreciation for your body's built-in cooling mechanism.

The human body possesses a sophisticated cooling system, capable of regulating its temperature with precision. So, what body part regulates sweating, the primary mechanism of this system? The control center for this vital function is a small, almond-sized region of the brain called the hypothalamus.

The hormone responsible for the body's 'fight or flight' response is known by two distinct names, and Americans use both depending on the context. So, what do Americans call adrenaline? The answer is more complex than you might think, involving a mix of medical and common terminology.

The human body is approximately 60% water, with the lungs alone being composed of about 83% water. This critical fluid balance is not solely regulated by the kidneys, but is a complex, coordinated effort involving many other organ systems that help maintain water balance and overall health.

According to twin and family studies, up to 90% of human height variation is determined by genetic factors. But where does **testosterone determine how tall you are** fit into this picture? While genetics sets the blueprint, testosterone acts as a powerful accelerator and ultimately signals the end of the growth process during puberty.

While extremely rare, impacting approximately 3 to 14 people out of every 100,000, excess growth hormone (GH) can lead to a condition known as gigantism in children. This hormonal imbalance can create physical overgrowth that leads people to wonder, "what disease causes you to not stop growing?".

Did you know that your gastrointestinal tract has its own chemosensory system? The surprising answer to the question, **do you have taste receptors in your stomach**, is a resounding yes, though they serve a far different purpose than the taste buds in your mouth.