Thyroid disorders refer to a range of health conditions that affect the thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that helps regulate the body's metabolism. Some key things to know:
Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This causes metabolism to slow down. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, muscle weakness, and more. It is usually treated with synthroid or levothyroxine, synthetic thyroid hormones.
Hyperthyroidism is the opposite - when the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms are unintended weight loss, rapid heart rate, sweating, nervousness, and more. Treatments options include antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine, or thyroid surgery.
Thyroid nodules are lumps that develop in the thyroid. Most are non-cancerous (benign), but around 5% are cancerous. Doctors can check nodules for cancer with a thyroid ultrasound and biopsy. Thyroid cancer treatment involves surgically removing part or all of the thyroid.
Thyroiditis means thyroid inflammation. Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune disorder, is the most common cause. The immune system attacks the thyroid, causing widespread inflammation and thyroid damage.
So in summary - thyroid disorders range from hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, to nodules, thyroiditis and thyroid cancer. They produce a wide variety of symptoms and are treated through medications like synthroid, procedures like biopsy or radioiodine therapy, and thyroid surgery if needed.
At Balance Hormone Clinic, we specialize in holistic and integrative care for thyroid issues. Our expert physicians spend over an hour with patients, checking thyroid levels, antibodies, nutrition status and using state-of-the art testing to create fully personalized treatment plans. Contact us today to schedule a thyroid health evaluation!