Thyroid disorder - Balanced Hormones Center

What is a thyroid disorder?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck that has an enormous impact on your health. This gland secretes thyroid hormones that regulate your body's metabolism, heart rate, mood, and energy levels. When your thyroid does not function properly, it can cause major health problems.

Common thyroid disorders include:

• Hyperthyroidism - when the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone. This speeds up your metabolism, causes fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, racing heartbeat, anxiety, irritability, and more.
• Hypothyroidism - when the thyroid gland is underactive and does not produce enough thyroid hormone. This slows down your metabolism, leading to weight gain, fatigue, lack of motivation, hair loss, depression, and more.
• Thyroid nodules - abnormal growths on the thyroid gland that may produce too much or too little thyroid hormone. Many are benign but some nodules can be cancerous.
• Thyroid cancer - while rare, thyroid cancer has been increasing in recent decades. Treatments include surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, medication, and more.
• Thyroiditis - inflammation of the thyroid gland, often causing hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism.

If you suspect you have a thyroid problem, the most important step is to see your doctor for blood tests. Getting your thyroid hormone levels tested is crucial for an accurate diagnosis. Pay attention to symptoms like mood changes, energy levels, bowel movement changes, hair and skin changes, and more.

Luckily, most thyroid disorders are highly manageable once properly diagnosed. Hypothyroidism can be treated with daily supplemental thyroid hormone medication. Hyperthyroidism has more variable treatments including antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery. Thyroid cancer may require chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery alongside thyroid hormone medication.

At Balanced Hormones Center, our award winning endocrinologists specialize in complete thyroid testing and personalized treatment plans for all thyroid conditions. If you suspect a thyroid problem, schedule a consultation today to get properly diagnosed and back to feeling your best! Mention this post to receive 10% off your initial visit!