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There's a lot of lingo thrown at you when you have diabetes. Here we've collected the must-know terms and translated them into plain language.

Endocrinologist

(EN-doh-krih-NOL-uh-jist)

What it means: An endocrinologist is a medical doctor who has special training and experience in treating conditions of the glands and organs of the endocrine system. The endocrine system produces hormones that help regulate bodily functions. This includes the pancreas, which makes insulin to help the body use glucose. 

What it means to you: Because diabetes is a disease of the endocrine system, an endocrinologist is often a good choice for heading up your diabetes care team. If you’ve had trouble getting your diabetes under control or have additional health problems that make your diabetes harder to manage, you may also want to find an endocrinologist. They have deep expertise in diabetes care and are up-to-date on all the latest treatment options.

You should see an endocrinologist (or another diabetes care doctor) at least twice a year to review A1C levels, discuss your diabetes management, and make treatment adjustments if needed. An endocrinologist doesn’t completely replace your primary care doctor, but instead works with them to help care for your overall health. To find an endocrinologist in your area, ask your primary care doctor for a referral or contact the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists.

Published on February 23, 2015.

— Compiled by Paula Ford-Martin, MA. Paula is the author of The Everything Guide to Managing Type 2 Diabetes.