Thyroid Problems Specialist

What are thyroid problems?

Your thyroid is a small gland located in the front of your neck. It produces hormones — triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) — that regulate your metabolism and contribute to a host of other body functions. 

Thyroid problems cause either hyper or hypoactivity. Some of the diseases that cause thyroid problems include:

• Thyroiditis 
• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• Grave’s disease
• Nodules

Anyone can develop thyroid disease, although women are five to eight times more likely to develop thyroid problems than men. Your risk increases if you have a family history of thyroid problems, an autoimmune condition, or take medication that’s high in iodine. 

What are the signs of thyroid problems?

Thyroid problems cause hyper and hypoactive symptoms. Some of the common warning signs of a hyperactive thyroid include:

• Unintended weight loss
• Insomnia 
• Swollen thyroid (goiter)
• Anxiety 
• Irritability
• Muscle weakness and tremors
• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
• Increased sensitivity to heat
• Eye irritation and vision problems

However, if your thyroid is underactive, the symptoms are nearly the opposite. You might gain weight or struggle to lose it. You might have low energy and become forgetful. Your periods become heavy and frequent, and you develop an intolerance to cold. Additionally, your hair and skin become dry and coarse.

How are thyroid problems diagnosed?

The Select Family Practice team provides thorough consultations and exams. They review your personal and family medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle. They complete a physical exam to look for signs of thyroid disease or other conditions that could cause your symptoms. 

The team also runs lab tests to evaluate your hormone levels. In addition to checking your T3 and T4, they also measure your thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and look for markers of other diseases. 

How are thyroid problems treated?

Treatment for thyroid problems depends on if your thyroid is hyper or hypoactive. Treatments for an overactive thyroid include antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, and surgery. These options all aim to reduce your thyroid hormone production. 

If your thyroid is underactive, your provider can prescribe replacement thyroid hormones. In cases where your thyroid needs to be removed or damaged, you might need to take synthetic thyroid hormones to maintain your health. 

Your provider can also offer advice on lifestyle adjustments to help manage your symptoms and maintain your quality of life. 

Call Select Family Practice today, or make an appointment online if you have concerns about thyroid disease.