The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that produces thyroid hormones. These hormones help regulate many essential body functions.
A thyroid disorder occurs when the gland produces too much or too little thyroid hormone, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, and mood issues. Some common thyroid disorders include:
Hypothyroidism
- This is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones.
- Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, feeling cold, and depression among others.
Hyperthyroidism
- This is when too much thyroid hormone circulates in the bloodstream.
- Symptoms may include unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety and irritability.
Thyroid nodules
- These are lumps that develop inside the thyroid.
- Most are benign but some can be cancerous, so doctors monitor them.
Thyroid cancer
- This refers to cancerous nodules or tumors that develop in the thyroid.
- Treatment depends on the type of cancer but may include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone treatment, chemotherapy or targeted therapy medications.
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- This is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks thyroid tissue. The thyroid then becomes underactive.
- Treatment involves thyroid hormone replacement medication.
Diagnosing and effectively treating thyroid disorders starts with comprehensive lab testing. The expert physicians at Renew Hormone Institute provide cutting-edge testing and personalized care plans to get your thyroid functioning optimally. Reach out today to learn more or schedule a consult!
Now you may ask — how do doctors test for and diagnose thyroid issues? Good question! They often start with blood tests measuring levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones T3 and T4. Elevated or low levels can indicate hyper or hypothyroidism. From there, additional testing like ultrasound or antibody tests may be needed to pinpoint the specific condition.
Rest assured, even if your test results show a thyroid disorder, the compassionate medical team at Renew Hormone Institute will get you feeling like yourself again soon. Their individualized treatment regimens combine medication, nutrition planning, and lifestyle changes for full-body healing, inside and out. Don't let a thyroid issue slow you down...take back your health and vitality today!