What is thyroid disorder?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck. It's job is to produce thyroid hormones that regulate your metabolism. A thyroid disorder means this gland is not functioning properly.
There are several types of thyroid disorders:
- Hypothyroidism - This is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, sensitivity to cold, and depression. Hypothyroidism is most often caused by Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks the thyroid. Treatment is daily synthetic thyroid hormone medication.
- Hyperthyroidism - This is when the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much hormone. Symptoms are rapid heartbeat, tremors, anxiety, weight loss, increased sweating, and insomnia. The most common causes are Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder, and thyroid nodules. Treatment may involve medication, radioactive iodine, or surgery.
- Goiter - This is an enlarged thyroid, which can be caused by iodine deficiency, Hashimoto's disease, or nodules. Treatment depends on the cause but may include iodine supplementation, synthetic hormones, or surgery.
- Thyroid nodules - These are lumps on the thyroid. Most are benign but around 5% are cancerous, so evaluation is important. Small nodules may just be monitored while large ones may require biopsy and possibly removal.
- Thyroid cancer - This is fairly rare, but can be aggressive. Treatment may involve surgery, radioactive iodine ablation, or external beam radiation. The prognosis is often good with early detection.
The best way to diagnose and treat any thyroid disorder is to see an endocrinologist, a doctor who specializes in hormonal conditions. At The Hormone Hub, our compassionate endocrinologists have over 20 years experience treating thyroid problems. We offer advanced testing and personalized treatment plans to help patients regain optimal thyroid function and hormone balance. Our integrative approach combines the latest conventional treatments with holistic therapies like dietary changes, supplements, and stress management. We partner with each patient for life-long thyroid health and wellbeing. Managing thyroid disorders properly is crucial for maintaining energy, metabolism, mood, and overall health. Don't struggle with thyroid problems - help is available!
In summary, thyroid disorders are conditions affecting the thyroid gland, which produces hormones regulating metabolism. The main types are hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer. Symptoms depend on whether thyroid function is too high or too low. While thyroid disorders can often be effectively managed with medications, dietary changes, or surgery, it's important to have an experienced endocrinologist oversee treatment for optimal outcomes. Reach out to thyroid health specialists like The Hormone Hub if you suspect any issues. With proper care, most people with thyroid disorders can enjoy restored wellness and thyroid hormone balance.