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Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD

(225 Ratings)

Specializes in: Adult Endocrinology

University of Louisville School of Medicine (2008)

Professional interests include: polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid biopsy, diabetes, and more.

9977 Woods Drive Suite 300
Skokie, IL 60077

(847) 663-8540

Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD is an endocrinologist in Bannockburn, IL specializing in adult endocrinology. She graduated from University of Louisville School of Medicine in 2008 and has 17 years of experience. Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD is affiliated with NorthShore, Endeavor Health Medical Group and NORTH SHORE UNIVERSITY HEALTHSYSTEM FACULTY PRACTICE ASSOCIATES.

Office Locations

Address:

2151 Waukegan Road Suite 140
Bannockburn, IL 60015

Address:

9977 Woods Drive Suite 300
Skokie, IL 60077

Some issues Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD can help you with:

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a common endocrine disorder that causes symptoms such as acne, facial hair, and weight gain. It is often diagnosed when patients experience problems getting pregnant, because PCOS can interfere with ovulation. There is no cure for PCOS, but there are effective treatments that can lessen the severity of the symptoms.

Despite the name, not everyone with polycystic ovarian syndrome develops cysts on their ovaries. It is also possible to have ovarian cysts without having PCOS. The symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome are actually related to insulin resistance, a condition where the insulin made by the body is not effectively recognized by the cells. This causes the pancreas to release higher levels of insulin in order to keep blood sugar levels stable, and the excess insulin interferes with hormone production in the pituitary and ovaries, causing the PCOS symptoms.

The symptoms of PCOS include:

Weight gain
Acne
Facial or body hair
Thinning head hair
Missing or irregular periods
Infertility

PCOS is a syndrome, which means that if patients have PCOS, they might not have each and every symptom. Even a few of them might be enough to have physicians check for polycystic ovarian syndrome. A doctor might perform an exam and order blood tests to measure hormone levels.

Treatment for PCOS may include:

Insulin sensitizers, which help the body use insulin more effectively, lowering hormone levels. The most commonly used insulin sensitizer is metformin.
Weight loss. Being overweight does not cause PCOS, and PCOS can make losing weight difficult. Still, weight loss can improve symptoms for many women.
Birth control pills to regulate menstruation and sometimes reduce symptoms such as acne.
Fertility medications, especially medications to stimulate ovulation such as clomiphene.
Anti-androgen medications, which work to treat symptoms such as acne and facial hair.
Low-carb diets, which work similarly to insulin sensitizers to lower hormone levels and help reduce weight.
Ovarian drilling or resectioning, surgical procedures sometimes performed if infertility is a persistent problem. These procedures open up the wall of the ovary to temporarily make ovulation more likely.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women. Left untreated, it can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Fortunately there are many good treatment options available.

Thyroid Problems

Thyroid problems are a group of conditions that alter hormone regulation and metabolism. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck, just below the Adam's apple (laryngeal prominence) and larynx (voice box). Despite its small size, the thyroid has an outsized effect on the body by regulating hormones that control metabolism. Metabolism is the body's process of converting consumed food into fuel to power the entire body. Heart rate, weight, cholesterol, body temperature, and even physical growth and development are all affected by the metabolism.

When the thyroid malfunctions, the body is unable to properly process and allocate energy. Thyroid problems, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), cause irregular metabolism. In some cases, the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid cells for unknown reasons. The damaged thyroid responds by releasing either too little or too much T3 and T4 thyroid hormones. Thyroid malfunctions may also arise from genetic causes or iodine deficiency. Thyroid problems may include:

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease that causes hypothyroidism
Graves' disease, an autoimmune disease that causes hyperthyroidism
Goiter
Thyroid nodule
Thyroid cancer

Hashimoto's is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones to stimulate adequate metabolism. The condition is diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and detect Hashimoto's antibodies. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include sluggish metabolism, inflammation, fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold. To supplement impaired thyroid function, patients with Hashimoto's are typically prescribed synthetic thyroid hormone pills. Such patients may need to consume synthetic thyroids for the rest of their lives. Other treatments may include dietary changes, such as the avoidance of certain foods and medication to reduce inflammation. Frequent blood tests can inform patients if their TSH levels are within a normal range.

Grave's disease is most frequently the cause of hyperthyroidism, which is when the thyroid produces too many hormones, overstimulating one's metabolism. The condition is also diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH and detect Grave's antibodies. Elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, sweating, bulging eyes, and weight loss are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Treatments for hyperthyroidism include oral radioactive iodine, which slowly shrinks the thyroid, slowing the production of excess thyroid hormone. Other anti-thyroid medications such as methimazole (Tapazole) also reduce the production of thyroid hormones. Blood pressure medications known as beta blockers can ease the increased heart rate caused by hyperthyroidism. If treatments are unsuccessful, patients may be prescribed a thyroidectomy, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid. Some patients with hyperthyroidism may require ophthalmological (eye medicine) treatments such as eye drops, prednisone, and surgery to reduce eye swelling and bulging.

Untreated thyroid disorders frequently lead to goiters or thyroid nodules. A thyroid goiter is a large lump that can be felt near the base of the neck and is made of swollen thyroid tissue or nodules (excess cell growth). Nodules and goiters are diagnosed by CT scan or ultrasound. Obstructive goiters can cause pain, coughing, and abnormal breathing. The most common cause of goiters is hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). However, Hashimoto's is also known to cause goiters or nodules. Goiters develop from continued damage from antibodies to the thyroid over time. At times, a goiter can result from a cancerous thyroid tumor. Most goiters and nodules are themselves benign.

The exact causes of thyroid cancer are unknown. People who develop thyroid cancer may or may not have another thyroid problem such as Hashimoto's or Grave's disease. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include a nodule that can be felt on the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swelling in the neck, and neck and throat pain. CT and MRI scans are used to diagnose thyroid cancer. There are four types of thyroid cancer which vary in intensity. Thyroidectomy (thyroid removal surgery) is usually prescribed to treat thyroid cancer.

Thyroid problems are often long-term conditions that require some form of treatment. With regular monitoring and medication, many people with thyroid problems are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.

blood draw	59
diabetes management	15
doctor visit	77
hospital care	93
inpatient care	93
lab tests	11
preventive care	13

**Gender**
Male	53
Female	73

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	99
Black	0
Hispanic	13
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	67
From 75 to 84	38
85 and over	0
Less than 65	0

Hypertension	71
High Cholesterol	75
Stroke	9
Ischemic Heart Disease	44
Depression	19
Chronic Kidney Disease	32
Asthma	10
Osteoperosis	16
Atrial Fibrilation	14
Heart Failure	21
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	21
Diabetes	60
Dementia	10
Cancer	9

**Gender**
Male	118
Female	162

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	230
Black	17
Hispanic	16
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	147
From 75 to 84	71
85 and over	29
Less than 65	33

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	74
Stroke	10
Ischemic Heart Disease	44
Depression	20
Chronic Kidney Disease	41
Asthma	8
Osteoperosis	16
Atrial Fibrilation	17
Heart Failure	25
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	16
Diabetes	69
Dementia	13
Cancer	12

blood draw	87
diabetes management	110
doctor visit	274
hospital care	212
inpatient care	212
lab tests	199
preventive care	122
thyroid function tests	49

**Gender**
Male	228
Female	354

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	476
Black	28
Hispanic	48
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	298
From 75 to 84	164
85 and over	60
Less than 65	60

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	75
Stroke	8
Ischemic Heart Disease	42
Depression	29
Chronic Kidney Disease	54
Asthma	14
Osteoperosis	13
Atrial Fibrilation	14
Heart Failure	29
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	16
Diabetes	73
Dementia	12
Cancer	11

doctor visit	251
hospital care	133
inpatient care	133

**Gender**
Male	91
Female	145

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	189
Black	14
Hispanic	14
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	110
From 75 to 84	68
85 and over	27
Less than 65	31

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	74
Stroke	5
Ischemic Heart Disease	40
Depression	30
Chronic Kidney Disease	56
Asthma	14
Osteoperosis	17
Atrial Fibrilation	16
Heart Failure	28
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	13
Diabetes	65
Dementia	12
Cancer	17

doctor visit	378
hospital care	135
inpatient care	135

**Gender**
Male	109
Female	161

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	217
Black	0
Hispanic	16
Asian	16
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	120
From 75 to 84	84
85 and over	36
Less than 65	30

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	66
Stroke	7
Ischemic Heart Disease	39
Depression	27
Chronic Kidney Disease	59
Asthma	7
Osteoperosis	20
Atrial Fibrilation	14
Heart Failure	23
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	11
Diabetes	68
Dementia	13
Cancer	14

doctor visit	461
hospital care	103
inpatient care	103

**Gender**
Male	128
Female	198

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	264
Black	15
Hispanic	15
Asian	19
Other	13
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	158
From 75 to 84	107
85 and over	33
Less than 65	28

Hypertension	71
High Cholesterol	75
Stroke	7
Ischemic Heart Disease	39
Depression	27
Chronic Kidney Disease	54
Asthma	0
Osteoperosis	24
Atrial Fibrilation	12
Heart Failure	18
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	10
Diabetes	62
Dementia	10
Cancer	15

doctor visit	483
hospital care	124
inpatient care	124

**Gender**
Male	136
Female	236

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	293
Black	22
Hispanic	17
Asian	23
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	178
From 75 to 84	117
85 and over	42
Less than 65	35

Hypertension	71
High Cholesterol	74
Stroke	7
Ischemic Heart Disease	37
Depression	27
Chronic Kidney Disease	54
Asthma	5
Osteoperosis	22
Atrial Fibrilation	12
Heart Failure	18
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	9
Diabetes	61
Dementia	9
Cancer	12

doctor visit	390
hospital care	82
inpatient care	82

**Gender**
Male	108
Female	221

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	253
Black	24
Hispanic	16
Asian	22
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	142
From 75 to 84	112
85 and over	41
Less than 65	34

Hypertension	71
High Cholesterol	74
Stroke	6
Ischemic Heart Disease	36
Depression	26
Chronic Kidney Disease	60
Asthma	5
Osteoperosis	22
Atrial Fibrilation	12
Heart Failure	21
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	9
Diabetes	65
Dementia	12
Cancer	11

doctor visit	864
hospital care	368
inpatient care	368

Average Medicare Procedure Volume From 2013 - 2021

Volume of procedures performed by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD for Medicare patients.

The highest averages for the top procedures that Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD treated as an endocrinologist in Bannockburn, IL were inpatient care, hospital care, lab tests and blood draw.

aspiration	23
blood draw	101
diabetes management	88
diagnostic procedures	23
doctor visit	393
hospital care	165
image guided procedures	23
inpatient care	165
lab tests	144
minimally invasive procedures	23
minor procedures	23
preventive care	97
thyroid function tests	53
vaccines	12

Average Medicare Patient Data From 2013 - 2021

Information about Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD.

**Gender**
Female	155
Male	97

**Ethnicity**
Black / African American	12
Asian / Pacific Islander	8
Non-Hispanic White	202
Native American / Alaskan Native	0
Hispanic	15
Other	1

**Age**
85 and over	26
75 to 84	76
Less than 65	25
65 to 74	122

Average of Total of Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD From 2013 - 2021

The highest averages of the most common conditions of Medicare patients that Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD treated were high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

Hypertension	58
High Cholesterol	58
Stroke	5
Ischemic Heart Disease	32
Depression	20
Chronic Kidney Disease	41
Asthma	6
Osteoporosis	15
Heart Failure	18
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	10
Diabetes	52
Atrial Fibrillation	11
Cancer	10
Dementia	9

Education & Training

Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD graduated from University of Louisville School of Medicine in 2008. She completed residency at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. She is certified by the Board Certification: Internal Medicine and has a state license in Illinois.

Medical School: University of Louisville School of Medicine (2008)

Residency: Barnes-Jewish Hospital

Board Certification: Board Certification: Internal Medicine

Licensed In: Illinois

Affiliations & Hospitals

Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD is associated with these hospitals and organizations:

NorthShore

Endeavor Health Medical Group

NORTH SHORE UNIVERSITY HEALTHSYSTEM FACULTY PRACTICE ASSOCIATES

Ratings & Reviews

Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD has an exceptional overall rating with an average of 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 225 ratings. We collect ratings and reviews of Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD from all over the web to help you find the right in Bannockburn, IL.

Overall Rating

(225 Ratings)

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General Payments

These charts describe general payments received by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD. Doctors may receive payments for a number of reasons, including meal compensation, travel compensation, and consulting.

**Payments by Company**
Dexcom, Inc.	$891 Dexcom CGM $421	Dexcom G4 Platinum $263	Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM System $207
Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.	$350 JARDIANCE $241	GLYXAMBI $92	JENTADUETO $17
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP	$231 BYDUREON $120	BYDUREON PEN $111
Pfizer Inc.	$125 SOMAVERT $125
Novo Nordisk Inc	$112 Tresiba $91	Victoza $21
Other	$147 LANTUS $77	Synthroid $14	iScan Coreo $14	HUMALOG $11	TRADJENTA $8	Other $24

**Types of Payments**
Food and Beverage	$1,856

Biography

Dr. Sara Chowdhury practices adult endocrinology. Her areas of expertise include the following: diabetes, calcium metabolism disorder, and pituitary disorders. She is affiliated with NorthShore. Before performing her residency at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Dr. Chowdhury attended the University of Louisville School of Medicine. Her average patient rating is 5.0 stars (out of 5).

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Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD

Office Locations

Some issues Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD can help you with:

Medicare Procedure and Patient Information

2013 Medicare Procedure Volume

2013 Medicare Patient Data

Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD in 2013

Medicare Procedure and Patient Information

2014 Medicare Procedure Volume

2014 Medicare Patient Data

Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD in 2014

Medicare Procedure and Patient Information

2015 Medicare Procedure Volume

2015 Medicare Patient Data

Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD in 2015

Medicare Procedure and Patient Information

2016 Medicare Procedure Volume

2016 Medicare Patient Data

Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD in 2016

Medicare Procedure and Patient Information

2017 Medicare Procedure Volume

2017 Medicare Patient Data

Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD in 2017

Medicare Procedure and Patient Information

2018 Medicare Procedure Volume

2018 Medicare Patient Data

Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD in 2018

Medicare Procedure and Patient Information

2019 Medicare Procedure Volume

2019 Medicare Patient Data

Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD in 2019

Medicare Procedure and Patient Information

2020 Medicare Procedure Volume

2020 Medicare Patient Data

Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD in 2020

Medicare Procedure and Patient Information

2021 Medicare Procedure Volume

Average Medicare Procedure Volume From 2013 - 2021

Average Medicare Patient Data From 2013 - 2021

Average of Total of Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sara Chowdhury, MD From 2013 - 2021

Education & Training

Affiliations & Hospitals

Ratings & Reviews

General Payments

Biography

Other Providers in Bannockburn, IL