Endocrinology in Hamburg

Endocrinology is the field of medicine that relates to the endocrine system, which is the system that controls hormones. Endocrinologists are specifically trained physicians who diagnose and treat diseases related to hormones, the glands, and tissues that produce them, as well as complications that may be caused by them. They work closely with other specialists, such as specialists in ophthalmology, obstetrics, radiation oncology, and otolaryngology. The conditions that endocrinologists commonly treat are as follows:

• Diabetes​​​​​​
• Menopause
• Osteoporosis
• Metabolic disorders
• Thyroid diseases
• Certain types of cancers
• Short stature
• Excessive or insufficient production of hormones
• Infertility
• Transplantation
• Gender dysphoria

Endocrinology treatment usually involves controlling the amount of hormone the body produces. The goal of the treatment is to restore the normal balance of hormones found in a person’s body. The following are some of the procedures that an endocrinologist perform:

• Bariatric procedures (such as gastric bypass surgery)
• Adrenalectomy
• CT scan
• MRI
• Pancreas transplant
• Thyroidectomy
• Thyroid fine-needle aspiration
• Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy
• Brain stereotactic radiosurgery
• Home enteral nutrition
• Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS)
• Lipid management
• Transnasal endoscopic procedures
• Wound care
• Feminizing hormone therapy
• Facial feminization surgery
• Feminizing surgery
• Top surgery for transgender men/women
• Voice feminizing therapy and surgery.

How Long Should I Stay in Hamburg?

Your length of stay in Hamburg depends on the type of procedure you underwent. In general, you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days after treatments, particularly after surgery, then plan to stay in Hamburg for at least 7 to 14 more days. During your stay, you will attend follow-up checkups where your endocrinologist monitors your healing progress and, if needed, will remove any stitches. For diagnostic procedures, you may be able to leave the hospital on the same day, then plan to stay in Hamburg for 3 to 7 days until the results are available.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

While the recovery time can vary from one person to another, depending on the procedure you underwent and your overall health, you may be advised to take a week or two off of work. It may also take around 6 weeks until you fully recover and are allowed to perform strenuous activities, such as exercise. Your endocrinologist will give you a detailed recovery timeline.

What Aftercare is Required?

Your endocrinologist will give you a set of instructions that you need to follow after your treatment. In general, you may need to take the medicine (if any) as prescribed and have a healthy lifestyle, such as having enough sleep, follow a healthy and balanced diet, and exercise regularly. You may also need to attend regular checkups to check on your condition with your local doctor.

What's the Success Rate?

The field of endocrinology has advanced, with cutting-edge technology, new medicines, sophisticated imaging and diagnostic equipment, and innovative therapies that have helped to increase the success rate of endocrinology procedures. There are risks of side effects and complications which include infection, allergic reaction to the anesthesia, bleeding, and injury to nearby organs.

Are there Alternatives?

There is no alternative to endocrinology. If you have any conditions mentioned above, you may need to see an endocrinologist. If your condition is found out to be caused by other problems unrelated to endocrinology, your endocrinologist will refer you to the relevant specialist.

Endocrinology in and around Hamburg

About Hamburg

Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany. It is a port city and it is also the second-busiest port in Europe. Famous for its parks and canals, this eclectic city is filled with iconic architecture, delicious cuisines, music, and lively nightlife. Hamburg also enjoys an excellent reputation in the field of medical tourism. The hospitals in the city boast highly-trained specialists offering remarkable standards of medical care. From prevention and diagnosis to treatment and aftercare, medical tourists are sure to receive the best care. Numerous hospitals and clinics provide the highest standard of healthcare as well as world-class medical care around the clock. Cutting-edge hospitals, experienced specialists, and advanced techniques in line with the very latest scientific findings are the reason why its healthcare sector is thriving. 

Popular Parts of Hamburg

As a port city, much of the city’s character comes for its port, which is why the harbor tour is very popular. The harbor tour allows visitors to admire the city from a different perspective. Those who love art should visit Hamburger Kunsthalle, which is the city’s premier art gallery offering a wide collection of Germany’s master painters. Any visitor who loves shopping should go to Altona, an elegant neighborhood where visitors can find an array of stylish boutiques, amazing restaurants, and bars. Hamburg is also known as one of the nightlife capitals of Europe. The center of the city’s nightlife is located in St. Pauli, a neighborhood filled with live music venues, dance parties, pubs, and cocktail bars. 

Transport in Hamburg

Hamburg Airport is the international airport in Hamburg, which connects the city with numerous countries in Europe and the Middle East. Public transportation in Hamburg is efficient and convenient. Buses operate around the clock, including a special night bus (Nachtbus) service. The U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains are integrated, making it easy to get around the city. Visitors who want to get around with the U-Bahn and S-Bahn train can buy an individual ticket or an All-Day ticket, which is reasonably priced. Taxis are easily available and are reliable. 

Visas in Hamburg

Since Germany is part of the Schengen Area, citizens of several countries, such as Australia, Canada, and the US, can visit and stay in the country without a visa for up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries are required to apply and obtain a visa prior to their arrival. It is recommended to always check the requirements for the visa application before applying.

Weather in Hamburg

Summer, starting from June to August, has an average temperature of 24°C, making it a popular time to visit the city. However, the temperatures can rise to 30°C on some very hot days. Winter can be very cold, with the temperatures dropping below 0°C. The seasons of spring (March-May) and autumn (September – October) has pleasant weather with warm temperatures.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The local currency is the Euro (EUR). 1 EUR converts to approx. 1.12 USD.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are widespread around the city. Credit cards are widely accepted and tipping is common.
3. Local Language: German is the official language. Most people, particularly in tourist areas, will speak little English.
4. Local Culture and Religion: The largest religion is Christianity and Islam is the second-largest religion. Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism are also freely-practiced.
5. Public Holidays: Some of the most celebrated public holidays are New Year’s Day, Day of German Unity, Reformation Day, and Christmas Day.