The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck below the Adam's apple. This gland produces thyroid hormones that help regulate growth, development, metabolism, and other key bodily functions.
Thyroid disorders occur when the thyroid gland does not produce the right amount of hormones. There are several different types of thyroid disorders:
This is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, muscle weakness, dry skin, hair loss, and depression. Hypothyroidism is typically treated with synthetic thyroid hormone medication.
This is when the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone. Common symptoms are unintended weight loss, rapid heartbeat, hand tremors, excessive sweating, feeling hot, and anxiety. There are medications that can help reduce thyroid hormone production for hyperthyroidism.
These are lumps that develop inside the thyroid. Most are non-cancerous (benign), but some can be cancerous. Often no treatment is needed unless they grow large or symptomatic.
This begins when healthy thyroid cells change and grow out of control, forming a tumor. Treatment may involve surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, hormone treatment, radiation, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy.
If you suspect a thyroid disorder, it's important to see your doctor. They can check for symptoms and use blood tests or imaging scans to help diagnose the problem.
The knowledgeable doctors at Hormone Harmony Clinic specialize in treating thyroid conditions and helping patients regulate their thyroid hormone levels. I highly recommend them if you need caring assistance getting your thyroid health back on track.