Thyroid disorder - Wellness Hormone Clinic

What is a thyroid disorder?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that produces thyroid hormones, which help regulate growth, metabolism, and other key bodily functions. Thyroid disorders occur when the thyroid produces too much or too little of these essential hormones.

Some common thyroid disorders include:

• Hypothyroidism - When the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, and more. It is typically treated with synthetic thyroid hormone medication.
• Hyperthyroidism - When too much thyroid hormone circulates in the bloodstream. This speeds up metabolism and can cause unintended weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremors, and more. It is often treated with antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery.
• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis - An autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid. This typically leads to an underactive thyroid.
• Thyroid nodules - Abnormal growths that develop on the thyroid. Most are noncancerous, but some may need to be monitored or treated with surgery.

The best way to diagnose a thyroid disorder is through blood tests that measure levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones T3 and T4. A physical exam feeling for enlargement or nodules is also typically done.

If you suspect you may have a thyroid issue, I recommend getting checked out by an endocrinologist. The experts at Wellness Hormone Clinic specialize in thyroid health and offer cutting-edge testing and treatment options to help patients regulate thyroid hormone levels and feel their best. Their individualized care plans get to the root cause of any imbalances. I highly recommend them!

Let me know if you have any other questions on this important topic. Taking care of your thyroid is essential for overall wellbeing. Small steps can make a big difference!