Expanding its focus on weight management and metabolic health, Woman’s Hospital welcomes endocrinologist Brittani Breaux, MD, to the new Woman’s Hospital Endocrinology and Weight Management Clinic. Breaux will specialize in hormonal disorders of the endocrine system, which includes insulin resistance/diabetes, metabolic obesity, thyroid conditions, osteoporosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and menopause. The endocrine system regulates metabolism, growth, and reproduction, among other functions.
“Hormonal imbalances can have a tremendous impact on a woman’s life, and many women may not recognize they have a health condition,” said Breaux. “Symptoms vary depending upon the condition, but can often include weight gain, infertility, body temperature changes, irregular periods, sleep, or even unexplained moodiness. And, if left untreated, these conditions can have serious long-term effects on an individual’s overall health and wellbeing.”
Often, metabolic conditions are referred to as the “silent epidemic,” as nearly 24 percent of adults older than 20 have metabolic syndrome, and nearly 44 percent by the age of 50. Sometimes aggressive lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise aren’t enough on their own, and a doctor might suggest medication to help control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
“There are several facets to obesity, and sometimes it’s not simply about calories in and calories out, the amount of exercise or the portion size on the plate,” Breaux explained. “For some, there are underlying hormonal reasons why a patient is unable to shed pounds. Endocrinologists are able to diagnose and treat these underlying conditions to assist in the process.”
Breaux, who recently completed a fellowship in endocrinology from Ochsner in New Orleans, has been involved in several clinical research studies on diabetes and other endocrine disorders. Board-certified in endocrinology and internal medicine, she received a bachelor’s degree in psychological sciences and pre-medicine from Loyola University New Orleans, and a medical degree from LSU Health Sciences Center School of Medicine. She also completed a residency in internal medicine at LSU.