Procedure - Thyroid Disorders
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that is located near the ‘Adam’s apple’ area in your neck. Due to the hormones it produces, your thyroid plays a major role in nearly all of the metabolic processes in your body. Your thyroid gland makes and releases hormones into your bloodstream. These hormones tell your cells how much energy to use.
Nearly all thyroid disorders can be diagnosed based upon symptoms, physical exam, and simple blood tests to measure the levels of thyroid hormone.
The most common form of thyroid disorder is hypothyroidism – a condition in which the thyroid gland cannot produce enough thyroid hormone to keep your body functioning properly. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- Fatigue
- Dry skin
- Forgetfulness
- Depression
- Constipation
- Hair loss
- Weight gain
Unfortunately, hypothyroidism cannot be cured. However, with proper treatment, hypothyroidism can be completely controlled. For most people, a simple pill, taken daily, will fully restore proper hormone levels and negate all negative effects of hypothyroidism.
The second-most common form of thyroid disorder is hyperthyroidism – a condition in which the thyroid is overactive and produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Weight loss
- Mood swings
- Muscle fatigue or weakness
- Trouble sleeping
- Rapid heartbeat
- Diarrhea
Treatment options for hyperthyroidism are vast and varied, depending upon the severity of the hyperthyroid symptoms. Hyperthyroidism can be treated with antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, and even thyroidectomy (surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid).
If you feel you may be suffering from a thyroid disorder, speak with your Ogden Clinic physician. Together you’ll decipher the answers to get you back to full health as quickly as possible.
