Thyroid disorder - Renew Wellness

What is thyroid disorder?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck below the Adam's apple. The thyroid's job is to produce thyroid hormones that help regulate growth and metabolism.

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

• Hypothyroidism - When the thyroid does not produce enough hormones. This causes metabolism to slow down. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, and feeling cold.
• Hyperthyroidism - When the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much hormone. This speeds up metabolism. Symptoms include unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremors, nervousness, and irregular periods.
• Hashimoto's disease - An autoimmune disorder where antibodies attack the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and damage. This usually results in an underactive thyroid.
• Graves' disease - An autoimmune disease where antibodies stimulate the thyroid, causing it to grow larger and overproduce hormones. This results in hyperthyroidism.
• Goiter - Enlarged thyroid gland that may produce too much or too little hormone. Can range from small to a very large, visible growth at the front of the neck.
• Thyroid nodules - Lumps that develop inside the thyroid. Most are benign but some may be cancerous.
• Thyroid cancer - Cancer of the thyroid gland. Most common in adults 50 and older.

What causes thyroid problems? There are several potential triggers:

• Iodine deficiency
• Autoimmune disease
• Radiation exposure
• Inflammation
• Genetics

Diagnosing thyroid disorders involves blood tests that check levels of thyroid hormones as well as thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and antibodies. Imaging tests like ultrasound or thyroid scan may also be used.

Most thyroid problems can be managed with medications like levothyroxine, anti-thyroid drugs, or radioiodine therapy. For thyroid cancer, treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, hormone treatment, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy.

With proper treatment, most people with thyroid disorders are able to manage their symptoms and live healthy lives. Getting on the right medication is key, along with ongoing lab monitoring by a doctor. Lifestyle changes like managing stress, eating nutritious foods, and exercising can also help minimize symptoms.

Let me know if you have any other questions! Thyroid problems are common but very treatable. Working closely with an endocrinologist or thyroid specialist at Renew Wellness is recommended to find the ideal treatment plan for your needs.