The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck, but it has a major effect on the body. It is a hormone producer that controls metabolism, energy, heart rate, temperature, digestion, mood and weight. If the thyroid produces excessive or insufficient amounts of the hormone, it can have an impact on daily life that can be confusing or unrelated.
Thyroid disorders are widespread–particularly in females. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism occur in approximately 0.5-4% of the population in iodine-sufficient populations and are up to 5-10 times higher in women than men.
Common Types of Thyroid Disease
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are the two most common thyroid disorders.
Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid gland which does not make sufficient thyroid hormone. Common symptoms include constipation, low mood, muscle aches, slowed heart rate, weight gain, dry skin, thinning hair and feeling cold.
Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid is overactive and makes excess thyroid hormone. They may experience unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, tremors, sweating, heat intolerance, frequent urination, insomnia and irregular periods.
Thyroid nodules, thyroiditis, goiter, or autoimmune thyroid disorders (like Hashimoto’s disease and Graves’ disease) may also occur in some patients.
Why Symptoms are Ignored?
Thyroid symptoms may appear as if it is stress or the effects of aging, trouble sleeping, anxiety or depression, menopause, or lifestyle changes. They can experience fatigue, weight gain, and changes in their mood without being aware that thyroid is a factor. The presence of symptoms is insufficient to make the diagnosis of thyroid disease.
Thyroid Testing
The initial testing usually done is thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The pituitary makes a substance called TSH, which tells the thyroid to make hormones. The TSH may be elevated if the thyroid is not being released. In the case of an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), TSH could be low.
Doctors may also ask for Free T4, which measures the main thyroid hormone available for the body to use. The American Thyroid Association states that Free T4, together with TSH, is a better indicator of thyroid activity. Sometimes additional tests, such as a T3, thyroid antibody tests, ultrasound, or additional imaging may be required.
A T4 blood test is used to determine T4 levels and works: If T4 levels are elevated, it may indicate a thyroid disorder; if T4 is depressed, it may indicate a thyroid disorder.
What Is Next After Testing?
If the test results indicate hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone replacement, usually with levothyroxine, is the standard treatment. The dose might need to be altered according to symptoms, lab values, age, weight, pregnancy and other medical conditions.
When results imply hyperthyroidism, treatment will depend upon the cause, and may include anti-thyroid medication, beta-blockers to treat symptoms, radioactive iodine or referral to a specialist.
Based on the size and appearance of a thyroid nodule, your provider may suggest monitoring it with ultrasound, checking the blood or conducting a biopsy.
When to Seek Care
If you experience symptoms that are persistent, inexplicable weight loss or gain, or fast pulse, neck swelling, changes in menstruation, new anxiety, tremors or any symptoms that do not seem to be getting better, talk with a healthcare professional. Follow up the case immediately for chest pain, dyspnea, syncope, or very fast heart rate.
Final Thoughts
Thyroid disease can be managed, if properly diagnosed. The secret lies in identifying signs and symptoms, requesting the appropriate blood tests and, following the individualized treatment plan based on the results of your blood tests. However, if monitored properly, many patients are able to recover energy, symptoms and safeguard their future health.
If you are experiencing fatigue, weight changes, mood shifts, irregular heartbeat, or other symptoms that may be related to thyroid health, do not ignore them.
Email appointment@familydiagnosticclinic.com today, and our team will help you schedule a thyroid evaluation and suggest the next best step for your care.
