Thyroid disorders are extremely common, affecting around 12% of the population at some point in their lives. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck that releases hormones to regulate your metabolism.
There are two main types of thyroid disorders:
- Hypothyroidism, where the thyroid is underactive and doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone. This slows down your metabolism, making you feel tired, gain weight, and be sensitive to cold.
- Hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone. This speeds up your metabolism, causing symptoms like unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, hand tremors, and anxiety.
Some common causes of thyroid disorders include:
- Hashimoto's disease - an autoimmune disorder where your immune system attacks the thyroid. This is the most common cause of hypothyroidism.
- Graves' disease - an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism.
- Thyroid nodules - lumps or tumors in the thyroid that can cause over or underproduction of hormones.
- Thyroid cancer - rare but can cause hypothyroidism if the thyroid is removed.
- Iodine deficiency - lack of iodine causes hypothyroidism. Iodine is needed to make thyroid hormone.
- Childbirth - postpartum thyroiditis can cause temporary hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism.
- Radiation exposure - radioactive iodine treatment or radiation therapy to the neck can damage the thyroid.
How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?
Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms. They'll feel your neck to check for enlargement or nodules. A simple
blood test called TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is usually the first test ordered to check your thyroid function. An elevated TSH indicates hypothyroidism, while a low TSH signals hyperthyroidism. Additional blood tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
What are the treatment options?
- Hypothyroidism is treated with daily synthetic thyroid hormone medication like Synthroid or Levothyroxine to restore normal hormone levels. Treatment is lifelong.
- Hyperthyroidism can be treated with antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine, or thyroid surgery. The goal is to stop excess hormone production and bring levels back to normal.
- For thyroid nodules or cancer, treatment may involve surgical removal of the thyroid followed by thyroid hormone replacement.
Lifestyle measures like eating an iodine-rich diet, minimizing stress, and exercising can help manage thyroid disorders. Work closely with your endocrinologist to monitor lab tests and find the optimal treatment plan for your thyroid condition.
If you suspect you may have a thyroid issue, I highly recommend getting evaluated by the caring endocrinology team at
Balance Hormone Specialist. Their innovative approaches combining both traditional and functional medicine allow them to uncover the root causes of hormone imbalances. With personalized care plans tailored to your unique needs, they can get your thyroid levels balanced and help you feel your best again!