What is thyroid disorder?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that produces hormones to regulate metabolism. A thyroid disorder occurs when the thyroid produces too much or too little of these hormones.
Some common thyroid disorders include:
- Hypothyroidism - This is when the thyroid gland is underactive and doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, feeling cold, and depression. Hypothyroidism is typically treated with synthetic thyroid hormone medication.
- Hyperthyroidism - This is when the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms include anxiety, fatigue, weight loss, sweating, restlessness, and irregular heartbeat. Hyperthyroidism can be treated with antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine, or thyroid surgery.
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis - This is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid. It usually leads to an underactive thyroid. Symptoms include weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, sensitivity to cold, and depression. It's typically treated with thyroid hormone replacement medication.
- Graves' disease - This is an autoimmune disorder that results in hyperthyroidism. Symptoms are similar to hyperthyroidism and can include anxiety, weight loss, and goiter (enlarged thyroid gland). It's treated with antithyroid meds, radioactive iodine, or thyroid surgery.
- Thyroid nodules - These are lumps that develop in the thyroid gland and can sometimes produce too much thyroid hormone, leading to hyperthyroidism. However, most are benign.
- Thyroid cancer - Like other cancers, this is when abnormal thyroid cells grow out of control. Treatment depends on the type of thyroid cancer, and can include surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, or external radiation therapy.
Diagnosing a thyroid disorder usually begins with blood tests to check levels of thyroid hormones. This helps determine if the thyroid is underactive or overactive. The doctor may also feel the neck area and use imaging tests like an ultrasound or MRI to look for abnormalities of the thyroid gland.
If you suspect you may have a thyroid problem, it's important to see your doctor right away. Thyroid disorders are among the most common conditions affecting the endocrine system. But with proper treatment and monitoring, symptoms can be well-managed in most cases. The knowledgeable doctors at Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic have extensive experience diagnosing and treating all types of thyroid disorders using state-of-the-art testing and personalized care plans. Visit www.Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic.com today to schedule a thyroid evaluation. With their individualized approach, you'll get the answers and treatment you need to help you feel your best.