Thyroid Issues Q & A

What are thyroid issues?

Thyroid disorders occur when your thyroid gland doesn’t function the way it’s supposed to. The thyroid gland, located in your neck, is responsible for making thyroid hormone and regulating your body’s metabolism and other important body functions. Thyroid issues often cause unpleasant side effects or medical complications.

What are common thyroid problems?

Some common thyroid problems you might encounter include:

• Hyperthyroidism: your body makes excess thyroid hormone
• Hypothyroidism: your thyroid gland makes too little thyroid hormone
• Goiter: thyroid gland enlargement
• Thyroid cancer: cancer in your thyroid gland
• Thyroiditis: thyroid gland swelling
• Thyroid nodules: thyroid gland lumps

Women are more likely than men to experience a thyroid problem, as one in eight women develop it during their lifetime. Family history of thyroid disease also increases your risk of having it.

What are the symptoms of thyroid issues?

The following signs and symptoms can indicate you have a thyroid disorder:

Hyperthyroidism

If you have hyperthyroidism you might feel hot or sweaty, lose weight, have sleeping problems, or notice increases in appetite. You may feel irritable, have lighter menstrual periods, or experience muscle weakness, diarrhea, hand trembling, or bulging eyes.

Hypothyroidism

With hypothyroidism you might feel cold often, gain weight, or experience weight gain, fatigue, depression, hair loss, constipation, muscle weakness, or dry skin. You may notice heavy menstrual bleeding, too.

Seeking treatment with the Sunstate Medical Associates team can offer you thyroid disease symptom relief.

How are thyroid problems diagnosed?

To find out which thyroid treatment is right for you, your doctor reviews your medical history, examines your thyroid gland, and asks questions about your symptoms. They often recommend a blood test and ultrasound to diagnose your condition and rule out complications.

How are thyroid issues treated?

Your doctor might recommend you take medications, receive radioiodine treatment, or undergo thyroid surgery to treat specific thyroid conditions. If they suspect you require thyroid surgery, your provider refers out to highly qualified endocrinologists in your area.

Other endocrine diseases your Sunstate Medical Associates provider can screen for and treat include diabetes, adrenal gland problems, polycystic ovary syndrome, pituitary disorders, and growth hormone problems. Medications are often effective treatments for many of these disorders.

Don’t let thyroid issues reduce your quality of life or lead to complications. Schedule an appointment with Sunstate Medical Associates by phone or online today.