Thyroid Problems

What is the thyroid?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that sits in your neck, just below your Adam’s apple. It’s responsible for creating several hormones, known collectively as thyroid hormones. These hormones influence several factors, including your metabolism, body temperature, growth, and development.

When your thyroid works as it should, it produces hormones that keep your body in balance. However, if your thyroid produces too many or too few hormones, it increases your risk of problems that can negatively affect your health and quality of life.

What are thyroid problems?

The hormones that your thyroid gland produces influence almost every metabolic process in your body. As a result, thyroid problems can range in severity. 

For some people, thyroid problems cause minor issues. A goiter, for example, is a non-cancerous growth that doesn’t always require treatment. In other instances, thyroid problems result in serious complications, including the need for surgery or cancer treatment.

Without proper diagnosis and treatment, thyroid problems can trigger uncomfortable symptoms that keep you from work or other routine activities. Fortunately, in most instances, it’s possible to manage these issues and prevent them from worsening.

What are some common thyroid problems?

At Nguyen Medical Group, the team diagnoses and treats a variety of common thyroid problems, including:

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland produces too many hormones. Some common medical problems that arise due to hyperthyroidism include Grave’s disease, toxic adenomas, and subacute thyroiditis.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland underproduces thyroid hormones. Since your energy levels rely on hormone production, these conditions often result in feelings of low energy or lethargy. 

One of the common issues that may occur before or in conjunction with hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. Hashimoto’s is an auto-immune disorder that attacks the thyroid and may lead to dysfunction, causing hypothyroidism. You might also experience hypothyroidism following thyroid removal surgery or due to exposure to large amounts of iodide. 

How are thyroid problems diagnosed?

To diagnose thyroid problems, your Nguyen Medical Group provider conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms and lifestyle. They also order blood tests to determine your levels of thyroid hormones. Usually, these steps are enough to pinpoint the source of your discomfort. 

How are thyroid problems treated?

Treatment of thyroid problems usually involves a combination of healthy lifestyle changes and prescription medications. For example, eating a healthy, balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing your stress levels can minimize uncomfortable side-effects.

If you have a condition like hypothyroidism, you’ll need to take a thyroid hormone replacement medication for the rest of your life. If you have hyperthyroidism, some medicines can minimize your thyroid gland’s output of hormones.

To explore your treatment options for thyroid problems, schedule an appointment at Nguyen Medical Group. Call the office or book a consultation online today.