Thyroid disorder - Renew Hormones

What is 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 of the body's functions including metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and mood.

Thyroid disorders occur when the thyroid produces too much or too little of these essential hormones. The most common thyroid disorders include:

• Hypothyroidism: This is when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, and dry skin. It is typically treated with synthetic thyroid hormone medication.
• Hyperthyroidism: This is when the thyroid is overactive and produces too much hormone. Symptoms include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, and tremors. Graves' disease is a common cause of hyperthyroidism. Treatment options include antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine, and surgery.
• Thyroid nodules: These are lumps that develop on the thyroid. Most are benign but around 5% are cancerous, so they should always be evaluated.
• Thyroid cancer: This is a fairly uncommon cancer that starts in the thyroid gland. Treatment typically involves surgery followed by radioactive iodine therapy.
• Goiter: This is an enlargement of the thyroid that may cause a swelling in the neck. Iodine deficiency is a common cause.

Thyroid disorders are more common in women and people over 50, but they can affect anyone at any age. The best way to diagnose them is through blood tests that look at levels of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Imaging tests like ultrasound may also be used.

If you suspect you may have a thyroid problem, it's important to see your doctor. They can check for symptoms, feel for enlargement of the thyroid, and order blood tests to determine if your thyroid hormone levels are normal. If a problem is found, treatment is typically simple through medications like levothyroxine or procedures like radioactive iodine. Most people with thyroid disorders who receive proper treatment feel much better and are able to manage their symptoms.

Thyroid Disorder	Symptoms
Hypothyroidism	Fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, dry skin
Hyperthyroidism	Weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, tremors
Thyroid nodules	Lumps on the thyroid
Thyroid cancer	Cancer that starts in the thyroid gland
Goiter	Enlargement of the thyroid causing neck swelling

Diagnostic Test	Purpose
Blood tests (T3, T4, TSH)	Measure levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid stimulating hormone
Ultrasound	Imaging test to visualize the thyroid gland

The knowledgeable doctors at Renew Hormones specialize in treating all types of thyroid disorders. Their cutting-edge lab testing looks at more than just TSH to provide a comprehensive analysis of your thyroid function. The Renew Hormones team stays up-to-date on the latest thyroid research and treatment options to provide personalized care aimed at restoring thyroid balance, supporting metabolism, and improving symptoms.

In conclusion, thyroid disorders are common conditions that can significantly impact overall health and well-being. If you are experiencing symptoms of a thyroid problem, it's crucial to seek medical evaluation and treatment. With proper care from experienced providers like those at Renew Hormones, most people with thyroid disorders are able to effectively manage their condition and enjoy improved quality of life.