THYROID Q&A

What is thyroid disease?

Thyroid diseases affect your thyroid gland, a small gland in your neck that produces thyroid hormone. This hormone affects many body functions, particularly your metabolism (how quickly you burn calories).

Examples of thyroid diseases include:

• Hyperthyroidism: the body produces too much thyroid hormone

• Hypothyroidism: too little thyroid hormone

• Thyroiditis: inflammation of the thyroid gland

• Thyroid cancer: cancer of the thyroid gland

• Thyroid nodules: bumps that form on the thyroid gland

• Goiter: enlarged thyroid gland

Women are more likely than men to experience thyroid disease. 

What are the symptoms of thyroid disorders?

Thyroid disorders can cause the following symptoms:

• Weight loss or weight gain

• Hair loss

• Irregular periods

• Skin changes

• Fatigue or high energy levels

• Sleep changes

• Irritability

• Nervousness

• Always being too cold or too hot

• Forgetfulness

• Hoarse voice

• Enlarged thyroid gland

See your provider at the first sign of new or unusual symptoms.

Who is at risk of thyroid disease?

Anyone can develop thyroid diseases, but common risk factors include:

• Being female

• Family history of thyroid disease

• Diabetes

• Other medical conditions

• Being over 60

• Taking medications containing iodine

• Previous treatment of a thyroid condition or cancer

Women are about 5-8 times more likely than men to experience thyroid disorders.

How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?

Diagnosing thyroid diseases at Urgyn includes reviewing your symptoms and medical history, completing a physical exam, and ordering blood tests to evaluate your hormone levels. You might undergo an ultrasound to create detailed images of your thyroid gland and detect possible problems. 

How are thyroid issues treated?

Treating thyroid disease may include:

• Medications

• Dietary changes

• Supplements

• Healthy lifestyle changes

• Surgery

If you need thyroid surgery or have a complex thyroid condition, the Urgyn team offers referrals to another specialist who can assist you. Some people with thyroid disease require surgery to remove all or part of their thyroid gland.

Maintaining an ideal body weight, getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, and exercising regularly are also important. Follow up with your provider periodically to ensure your thyroid hormone levels remain within an ideal range. 

Schedule a thyroid disease evaluation at Urgyn by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.