Thyroid

What is the thyroid?

Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped organ found in your neck that manufactures and secretes hormones collectively known as the thyroid hormones. These hormones serve as chemical messengers and provide information to various organ systems throughout your body, telling them what to do. Your thyroid hormones control your metabolism, heartbeat, and mood.

Thyroid disorders are common and affect hormone production and balance. When your thyroid hormones are out of balance, you may experience a range of symptoms.

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is when your thyroid hormone isn’t producing enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms that may indicate hypothyroidism include:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Sensitivity to cold
• Dry skin
• Muscle aches and weakness
• Depression
• Thinning hair

Hypothyroidism may develop from an autoimmune disorder, use of certain medications, or result from radiation therapy for thyroid cancer. 

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, your KAMcare Health and Wellness provider can conduct a comprehensive examination, including diagnostic testing, to assess your hormone levels and provide the most appropriate treatment, which includes hormone replacement to restore balance. Your provider may also provide nutrition and exercise recommendations to improve overall health and wellness.

What is hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism occurs when your body is producing too many thyroid hormones. Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

• Unexpected weight loss
• Increased heartbeat
• Increased appetite
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Sensitivity to heat
• Difficulty sleeping
• Thinning hair

Hyperthyroidism may develop from an autoimmune condition or a malfunction in the organ. Your KAMcare Health and Wellness provider can determine if your thyroid hormones are elevated with a simple blood test. 

Hypothyroidism is more common than hyperthyroidism.

How are thyroid problems diagnosed?

KAMcare Health and Wellness providers diagnose thyroid disorders by taking a blood test and having it analyzed. The test measures thyroid hormone levels and other significant factors to confirm thyroid malfunction and its possible causes. 

What treatments are available for thyroid disorders?

Treatment for thyroid disorders consists of rebalancing thyroid hormone levels in your body. If your thyroid is overactive, your KAMcare Health and Wellness provider prescribes medication to keep your thyroid from producing such high quantities of hormones.

If your thyroid is underactive, your provider can start you on a course of synthetic thyroxine T4, a drug that boosts your thyroid hormone levels. You need to take the medication every day and have regular blood tests to ensure your body produces the correct amount of hormones.

For a thyroid evaluation, call KAMcare Health and Wellness, or request an appointment online today.