Thyroid disorder - Rejuvenate HRT Clinic

What is a thyroid disorder?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that produces hormones to regulate metabolism. A thyroid disorder occurs when the gland produces too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism).

Some key facts about thyroid disorders:

• They are more common in women, especially over age 50.
• Family history can increase risk.
• Symptoms depend on whether there is too much or too little hormone.

Hyperthyroidism means high hormone levels. Some symptoms include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Rapid heartbeat
• Nervousness or anxiety
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Fine, brittle hair

Hypothyroidism signifies low hormone levels. Symptoms can include:

• Unexplained weight gain
• Fatigue
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Thinning hair

Thyroid disorders are often caused by:

• Hashimoto's disease - an autoimmune disorder where antibodies attack the thyroid gland
• Graves' disease - also an autoimmune disease causing hyperthyroidism
• Thyroid nodules or tumors
• Inflammation (thyroiditis)
• Certain medications

To diagnose a thyroid disorder, physicians will typically perform a physical examination and use blood tests to check TSH, T3, and T4 hormone levels. They may also use an ultrasound or radioiodine uptake scan.

Treatment depends on the specific condition, but may include synthetic thyroid hormones like levothyroxine, beta blockers, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery in some cases.

The good news about thyroid disorders is that most are manageable with medication once properly diagnosed. Getting the right treatment can help restore energy, metabolism, mood, and overall health.

For more information, please visit the Rejuvenate HRT Clinic.