Dr. Alan Balsam, MD

About Dr. Alan Balsam, MD

Dr. Alan Balsam, MD is an Endocrinology specialist practicing at his clinic in Deerfield Beach, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered Endocrinological care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He provides comprehensive care for patients with hormone imbalances, including thyroid disorders, diabetes, pituitary and adrenal conditions, and metabolic issues, ensuring optimal health and well-being. He serves all ages, and patients should call (866) 200-4253 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Alan Balsam, MD is a diabetes & metabolism endocrinologist in Deerfield Beach, FL with over 55 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from Albert Einstein College Of Medicine in 1965 and is Board Certified in Diabetes, Metabolism & Endocrinology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. With this extensive experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Kettering Health Miamisburg and Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, and he is accepting telehealth appointments. Dr. Balsam's approach to care is grounded in evidence-based medicine, prioritizing patient education and collaborative decision-making within a supportive and reassuring environment. He provides consultations primarily in English.

Endocrinological Conditions Addressed

Dr. Alan Balsam addresses a wide range of Endocrinological health concerns, including:

• Overweight: Overweight is a classification based on your body mass index (BMI), indicating you weigh more than the recommended range.
• Growth Hormone Deficiency: Growth hormone deficiency means your body doesn't make enough of the hormone that helps you grow.
• Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a condition where your bones become weak and brittle, making them more prone to fractures.
• Anemia: Anemia is a condition where your body doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body.
• Symptomatic Menopause: The term 'symptomatic menopause' highlights the presence of noticeable and often disruptive symptoms directly related to the hormonal changes of menopause.
• Thyroid Goiter: An enlarged thyroid gland, known as a goiter, can be caused by iodine deficiency or other health issues.
• Secondary Diabetes Mellitus: Secondary diabetes occurs when a medical condition or medication other than genetics causes your body to not properly use insulin.
• Hypopituitarism: Because of a malfunctioning pituitary gland, hypopituitarism results in a deficiency of several important hormones in the body.
• Calcium Metabolism Disorders: Calcium metabolism disorders involve problems with how your body uses and regulates calcium.
• Hypogonadism: Hypogonadism is a condition where your body doesn't produce enough sex hormones.
• Goiter: Goiter refers to a swelling in your neck due to an abnormally sized thyroid gland.
• Lipid Disorders: Having a lipid disorder means your body isn't processing fats correctly, increasing your risk for heart attack and stroke.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Alan Balsam addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Endocrinology manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how he can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Endocrinological Services Provided

Dr. Alan Balsam offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Thyroid Biopsy: This procedure involves removing a tiny piece of thyroid tissue to help determine the cause of your thyroid symptoms.
• Thyroid Hormone Replacement: This treatment uses synthetic thyroid hormones to restore normal levels in individuals with hypothyroidism.
• Diabetes Counseling: Through diabetes counseling, you'll gain the knowledge and skills necessary to live a healthier life with diabetes and reduce long-term health risks.
• Thyroid Surgery: Thyroid surgery involves a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the thyroid gland.
• Radioactive Iodine Treatment: Radioactive iodine treatment uses a small dose of radioactive iodine to destroy some of your thyroid tissue.
• Body Composition Measurement: This test measures your body's different components, including fat mass and lean mass, to understand your overall health.
• Diet Counseling: Through one-on-one sessions, you'll gain knowledge and skills for making sustainable dietary changes.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Alan Balsam. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Endocrinology can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Endocrinologies in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Alan Balsam:

What is an Endocrinologist?

An endocrinologist is a doctor who specializes in the endocrine system, a network of glands that produce hormones. They diagnose and treat hormonal imbalances, and various conditions including diabetes, thyroid issues, and metabolic problems.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Alan Balsam?

Your first visit with Dr. Balsam will involve a comprehensive review of your symptoms, medical history, and family history. A physical exam, focusing on potential hormonal imbalances, will follow. We will also review any existing lab results, and it's crucial to bring a list of all medications and supplements.

Does Dr. Alan Balsam accept my insurance?

Dr. Balsam's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. To confirm your specific plan's coverage, please call our office directly with your insurance information.

How does Dr. Alan Balsam approach the management of diabetes?

Dr. Balsam's approach to diabetes management is comprehensive, focusing on medication management, including oral agents and insulin, alongside personalized lifestyle counseling on diet and exercise. He utilizes modern technology like continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps to optimize blood sugar control and improve patient outcomes. This approach is tailored to each patient's unique needs and preferences.

How can Dr. Alan Balsam help with menopause symptoms?

Dr. Balsam can help manage menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes through a personalized approach. This may include hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or non-hormonal options, tailored to your individual health profile. He will discuss the benefits and risks of each approach to create a plan that addresses your specific needs.

My doctor said I have a goiter. What does that mean?

A goiter is a general term for an enlarged thyroid gland. It doesn't automatically mean a serious condition; Dr. Balsam will perform tests to determine the cause, which could range from iodine deficiency to an autoimmune condition.

Do you perform thyroid biopsies in the office?

Dr. Balsam does not perform thyroid biopsies in the office. He can, however, order and interpret ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspirations (FNAs) to evaluate thyroid nodules. If you have a thyroid nodule, we will refer you to a radiology center for this procedure.

I am constantly tired. Could this be an endocrine issue?

Persistent fatigue is a common symptom, and while not specific to endocrine issues, it can be a hallmark of several, including hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, and poorly controlled diabetes. A thorough evaluation with Dr. Balsam can help determine if a hormonal imbalance is the cause.