Thyroid disorder - Optimum 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 many essential body functions. Thyroid disorders occur when the thyroid produces too little or too much of these hormones.

Some key facts about thyroid disorders:

• They are more common in women and people over 60 years old. About 1 in 8 women will experience a thyroid disorder in her lifetime.
• Hypothyroidism - when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones - is the most common thyroid disorder. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, and more. It is usually treated with a daily thyroid hormone replacement medication.
• Hyperthyroidism - overproduction of hormones - can cause unintended weight loss, rapid heartbeat, irritability, and more. Several treatments options are available, including medications, radioactive iodine, and surgery.
• Thyroid nodules, or lumps on the thyroid, are common and usually non-cancerous. But some may require biopsy or removal.
• Thyroid cancer treatment has a high success rate if caught early. Monitoring nodules is important for early detection.

If you suspect a thyroid issue, get tested promptly and reach out to a qualified endocrinologist. The experts at Optimum Hormone Clinic specialize in thyroid and hormone conditions. Their compassionateproviders partner with patients on customized treatment plans to help resolve symptoms and support long-term thyroid health.

Now let's go over some key aspects of thyroid disorders in more detail:

What causes thyroid disorders?

Thyroid disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Hashimoto's disease - an autoimmune disorder and the 1 cause of hypothyroidism. The body's immune system attacks thyroid tissue.
• Thyroiditis - inflammation of the thyroid
• Genetic predisposition
• Pregnancy
• Radiation exposure
• Iodine deficiency
• Pituitary gland malfunctions
• Medications

Thyroid issues may develop slowly over time, or symptoms can come on suddenly. Getting tested is important for identifying the underlying cause and guiding appropriate treatment.

What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism leads to high thyroid hormone levels and symptoms like:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Rapid heart rate/palpitations
• Heat sensitivity
• Nervousness/irritability
• Muscle weakness
• Irregular menstrual cycles

Hypothyroidism causes low thyroid levels and symptoms such as:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Feeling cold
• Constipation
• Dry skin and hair
• Impaired memory

There is overlap between hypothyroid and hyperthyroid symptoms. Testing thyroid hormone levels is needed to confirm which condition may be present.

How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?

Diagnosing a thyroid disorder involves a physical exam and blood tests, including:

• TSH test - Measures Thyroid Stimulating Hormone levels, produced by the pituitary gland to stimulate the thyroid
• T3 and T4 tests - Measure actual thyroid hormone levels in circulation
• Thyroid antibodies tests - Detects markers of autoimmune thyroid disorders

Based on test results and clinical evaluation, the doctor determines if thyroid hormone levels are normal, too low (hypothyroidism), or too high (hyperthyroidism). Additional testing may be ordered to evaluate nodules or further investigate autoimmunity.

Early detection and sticking with the treatment plan is key to successfully managing thyroid disorders. The caring medical team at Optimum Hormone Clinic will partner with you on the thyroid care journey with compassion and expertise. Reach out today to learn more or schedule an appointment.