Thyroid Specialist

What is the thyroid?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower part of your neck. It’s responsible for creating hormones that regulate your body’s metabolism. It also plays a crucial role in your body’s endocrine system, a network of glands responsible for important bodily functions such as growth, sexual development, and function.

If your thyroid produces too much hormone or not enough, your risk of serious health problems increases. Fortunately, it’s possible to manage thyroid-related conditions both safely and effectively. 

What happens when your thyroid produces too many hormones?

Hyperthyroidism occurs if your thyroid gland produces too many hormones. This condition affects about 1% of women but is much less common in men. The leading cause of hyperthyroidism is Grave’s disease, but it can also occur as a result of thyroid nodules, a condition called toxic nodular goiter.

What happens when your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones?

Hypothyroidism is the opposite of hyperthyroidism and means your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. The two most common causes of hypothyroidism are Hashimoto’s disease and radiation treatment. 

What are the symptoms of thyroid disease?

Thyroid disease affects everyone differently. That said, there are telltale signs to watch out for, including:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Constipation
• Muscle fatigue
• Weight gain

As the condition gets worse, you might also develop a goiter, or an enlarged thyroid gland. 

How is thyroid disease diagnosed?

To diagnose thyroid disease, your Medtopia Medical Clinic provider conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks you about your symptoms. They also order a series of blood tests to measure your thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and thyroid hormone levels. Usually, these measures provide enough information to make a proper diagnosis.

How is thyroid disease treated?

Treatment of thyroid disease depends on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. At Associated Physicians Group, PLC, the team may start off your treatment with conservative measures of care such as healthy lifestyle changes. For example, you might benefit from regular exercise, getting plenty of rest, and eating a balanced diet. 

If you have hyperthyroidism, your doctor might recommend treatment with radioactive iodine or another prescription medication like methimazole. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.

If you have hypothyroidism, your doctor might recommend treatment with thyroid hormone pills. The team at Associated Physicians Group, PLC works with you to get just the right dose. Taking too much thyroid hormone may trigger hyperthyroidism.

To learn more about your treatment options for thyroid disease, make an appointment at Associated Physicians Group, PLC by calling the office today.