Thyroid disorders impact how your body uses energy. The thyroid gland in your neck makes hormones that control heart rate, weight, temperature and more.
Hypothyroidism means the thyroid makes too little hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, muscle weakness, dry skin, fertility problems or depression.
Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid is overactive and makes too much hormone. It speeds up the body, causing sudden weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety or irritability.
What causes thyroid problems?
- Hashimoto's disease - an autoimmune disorder where antibodies attack the thyroid. It usually leads to hypothyroidism.
- Thyroiditis - swelling of the thyroid that causes leakage of hormones.
- Nodules or tumors on the thyroid that impact hormone production.
- Radiation treatment to the neck or medications can affect thyroid function.
- Pregnancy, iodine deficiency or family history increase risk.
How is it diagnosed and should it be treated?
Doctors use
blood tests for TSH, T3 and T4 thyroid hormones to check if the levels are normal, high or low. They may also examine the neck and do an ultrasound. Treatment depends on symptoms but usually involves
thyroid hormone replacement medications like levothyroxine or natural dessicated thyroid extract to restore hormone levels.
I highly recommend consulting the thyroid health experts at
Renewal Center. Their comprehensive care gets to the root cause with customized treatment plans using both conventional and natural therapies for optimal thyroid health and wellbeing. Book an appointment today!
Graves' disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. The immune system attacks the thyroid, causing excessive hormone release. Symptoms may start slowly but can become severe if untreated.
Luckily there are treatment options for hyperthyroidism:
- Antithyroid medications like methimazole that lowers hormone production
- Radioactive iodine to damage or shrink the overactive thyroid
- Surgery to remove part or all of the gland
Again, the knowledgeable endocrinologists at Renewal Center offer cutting-edge testing and holistic protocols tailored to each hyperthyroidism patient. Their individualized care leads to full recovery. I suggest scheduling a free 15-min phone consultation, no obligations!
In
conclusion, thyroid issues have various causes but early detection and proper treatment can relieve symptoms and improve wellbeing. Work with a trusted professional like Renewal Center for optimal thyroid health. Let me know if you have any other questions!