Dr. Maha Zikra, MD

Dr. Maha Zikra, MD is an Endocrinology specialist practicing at her clinic in Orlando, FL. She is dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Endocrine care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Your endocrinologist is your primary partner in preventing hormonal and metabolic issues, creating personalized long-term health plans, coordinating essential screenings, and empowering you to manage your overall wellness for a healthier future. She serves all ages and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (407) 248-9990 to schedule.

Dr. Maha Zikra, MD is a diabetes & metabolism endocrinologist in Orlando, FL with over 35 years of experience in the medical field. With extensive experience in Osteoporosis & Screening, Thyroid Disorders, and Fertility Related Endocrine Disorders, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She earned her medical degree from University Of Aleppo, Faculty Of Medicine in 1987, followed by an internship at St Joseph Med Ctr, Seton Hall University, Nj, and residency training in Endocrinologies at Seton Hall University, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of All ages. Further specialization was achieved through fellowship training in St Lukes Roosevelt Hospital, deepening her expertise in a specific area of patient health. She is Board Certified in Diabetes, Metabolism & Endocrinology by the American Board of Internal Medicine and affiliated with medical facilities such as AdventHealth Orlando and Orlando Health-Health Central Hospital. She is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. Dr. Zikra provides consultations primarily in English.

The Diabetes and Endocrine Center of Florida, with a philosophy based on the understanding that every disease has a cause, prioritizes finding the root cause to ensure a better quality of life for patients. Recognizing each patient's uniqueness, the center strives to create the best treatment plan for each individual, fostering an atmosphere where patients feel secure and comfortable knowing their concerns and needs are addressed professionally and genuinely.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Maha Zikra is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Maha Zikra can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Maha Zikra provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Renal Hyperparathyroidism: Don't underestimate the importance of preventative care for kidney health; early diagnosis and management of renal hyperparathyroidism can significantly improve your quality of life.
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that can lead to serious health problems later in life, but early detection and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of developing these complications.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Early detection and management of vitamin D deficiency can help prevent complications like weakened bones, muscle weakness, and increased risk of certain diseases.
• Osteoporosis: Early detection of osteoporosis is crucial because it allows for timely intervention with medication and lifestyle changes, preventing debilitating fractures later in life.
• Secondary Diabetes Mellitus: Understanding the link between your other health conditions and secondary diabetes allows for targeted prevention strategies and improved long-term health outcomes.
• Hyperlipidemia: Early detection of hyperlipidemia allows for timely intervention with lifestyle modifications and/or medication, significantly reducing your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: Protecting your eyesight from diabetic retinopathy involves proactive diabetes management and consistent monitoring to detect and treat any eye problems early.
• Hypoglycemia: Early detection and prompt management of hypoglycemia are crucial for preventing serious complications such as seizures, loss of consciousness, or even long-term organ damage.
• Diabetes: Regular check-ups and screenings can help identify prediabetes early, giving you a crucial opportunity to make lifestyle changes and prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.
• Metabolic Syndrome: Recognizing the warning signs of metabolic syndrome allows for timely intervention, potentially preventing or delaying the onset of diabetes and cardiovascular complications.
• Parathyroid Cancer: Understanding your family history and undergoing appropriate screenings can help identify parathyroid cancer risks, contributing to early intervention and preventing serious health issues.
• Lipoprotein Disorders: Regular blood tests can identify lipoprotein disorders, enabling you to make lifestyle changes or take medication to prevent future health complications.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Maha Zikra offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Thyroid Biopsy: As part of comprehensive thyroid care, a biopsy helps determine the cause of thyroid nodules, enabling doctors to provide timely treatment and prevent any potential complications from developing.
• Water Deprivation Test: Taking a proactive step with a water deprivation test allows your doctor to screen for underlying issues impacting your hormone function and fluid balance, potentially preventing serious health problems.
• Thyroid Screening: Ensure your metabolism is functioning optimally with a thyroid screening – a proactive step towards preventing future complications.
• Dexamethasone Suppression Test: Taking a proactive step towards better health, the dexamethasone suppression test assesses your body's response to a hormone, helping to prevent and diagnose conditions like Cushing's syndrome.
• Diabetic Evaluation: Protect your long-term health by scheduling a diabetic evaluation – this check-up screens for diabetes and helps you understand your risk factors.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: Take charge of your health with an oral glucose tolerance test – it's a proactive step to identify potential glucose metabolism issues before they become major health concerns.
• Thyroid Hormone Replacement: Early detection and management of hypothyroidism is crucial. Thyroid hormone replacement helps to prevent serious complications by restoring essential hormone levels.
• Dynamic Endocrine Function Test: A dynamic endocrine function test helps proactively identify imbalances in your hormones, allowing for early intervention and preventing potential long-term health issues.
• Continuous Glucose Monitoring: Take control of your health with continuous glucose monitoring: a small sensor tracks your glucose levels, alerting you to potential problems and helping prevent serious long-term health issues.
• Thyroid Scan: A thyroid scan is a crucial preventative measure to catch imbalances in your thyroid function early, paving the way for timely intervention and improved long-term well-being.
• Diabetes Screening: Protect your future by getting screened for diabetes; early detection enables proactive management and reduces your risk of long-term health problems.
• Thyroid Nodule Evaluation: Invest in your well-being with a thyroid nodule evaluation; this check-up helps identify and manage thyroid nodules, potentially preventing serious complications down the line.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Endocrinologies in Florida.

Dr. Maha Zikra is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• By proactively managing their kidney health through regular check-ups and lifestyle changes, a patient significantly reduced their risk of developing renal hyperparathyroidism, ensuring a healthier future.
• By focusing on lifestyle changes and regular checkups, a patient proactively managed potential PCOS complications, gaining peace of mind about their future health.
• By following a personalized vitamin D plan, a patient proactively managed their risk of developing weakened bones and reduced muscle strength, ensuring a healthier, more active lifestyle.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Endocrine care with Dr. Maha Zikra:

What is an Endocrinologist?

An endocrinologist is a doctor specializing in the endocrine system, which includes the glands that produce hormones. They diagnose and treat hormonal imbalances, and manage conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body doesn't produce insulin, requiring lifelong insulin therapy. Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, meaning the body doesn't use insulin effectively, often managed initially with lifestyle changes and oral medications, and sometimes progressing to insulin therapy.

How do insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) help manage diabetes?

Insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are advanced technologies that help achieve tighter diabetes control. A CGM constantly tracks glucose levels, alerting you to potential highs or lows, while an insulin pump delivers a precise, continuous dose of insulin, mimicking a healthy pancreas. These tools empower patients to better manage their blood sugar levels and improve their overall health.

What are the common symptoms of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)?

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, and feeling cold. These symptoms are often effectively managed with thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which Dr. Zikra can prescribe and monitor.

What is the A1c test and why is it important?

The A1c test is a blood test that shows your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. Unlike a daily finger-stick, which is a snapshot, the A1c provides a longer-term view of glucose control. It's a crucial tool for diagnosing diabetes and monitoring your long-term glucose control, which helps prevent serious complications.

What is a bone density test (DEXA scan)?

A DEXA scan is a simple, low-radiation X-ray that measures bone mineral density. It's the gold standard for diagnosing osteopenia and osteoporosis, and is crucial for assessing your fracture risk.

What is Graves' disease?

Graves' disease is the most common cause of an overactive thyroid. It's an autoimmune disorder where your immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, causing it to produce too much hormone. Fortunately, it's a treatable condition managed effectively by an endocrinologist.

I have a thyroid nodule. Does this mean I have cancer?

The vast majority of thyroid nodules are benign. Dr. Zikra is experienced in evaluating nodules, often using ultrasound and sometimes a fine-needle aspiration biopsy to determine if further testing is needed.

7300 Sandlake Commons Blvd Ste 112
Orlando FL 32819
Phone: (407) 248-9990

Dr. Maha Zikra, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1366425654

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Endocrinologies like Dr. Maha Zikra are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your endocrinology about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.