The thyroid is a gland that regulates metabolism and maintains energy levels and heart rate. Because of all the critical body functions it plays a role in, thyroid disease can affect your health in various ways. Thyroid conditions are common, affecting about 20 million Americans. At BMI, we have extensive experience treating these disorders, so we have compiled some information to help you manage them.
What is Thyroid Disease?
Thyroid disease is an umbrella term for several disorders that affect the thyroid gland and related bodily functions. These include:
- Hyperthyroidism – The thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.
- Hypothyroidism – The thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone.
- Goiter – An enlargement of the thyroid gland, resulting in swelling of the neck.
- Thyroid Nodules – Non-cancerous, asymptomatic lumps in the thyroid gland.
- Thyroid Cancer – A type of cancer involving malignant growth in the thyroid.
Regardless of which condition you have, it is critical to consult an endocrine specialist, like those at BMI, to find the best possible treatment.
Symptoms of Thyroid Disease
Because thyroid disease takes many forms, symptoms can vary depending on the condition. Common symptoms of thyroid issues include:
- Weight gain
- Sleep issues
- Irregular heart rate
- Appetite changes
- Mood changes
- Hair loss
- Heat or cold intolerance
Even if symptoms are mild, they can still impact your quality of life. If they are particularly disruptive to your daily routine, consult with one of BMI’s endocrine specialists, who can help you effectively treat them.
Causes of Thyroid Disease
There are many potential causes of thyroid disease because it takes many different forms. Common causes include:
- Autoimmune disorders, like Graves’ disease
- Inflammation of the thyroid gland
- Surgical removal of the thyroid gland
- Certain medications, such as lithium
- Iodine and other nutrient deficiencies
- Lifestyle causes like stress or lack of exercise
- Genetics, as thyroid conditions can be hereditary
- Gender, as thyroid conditions are more common in women
Regardless of the cause, your physician can assess your personal risk factors and develop a custom treatment plan to address your specific thyroid condition.
How to Prevent Thyroid Disease
While many thyroid conditions are genetics and not preventable, some can be prevented through:
- A healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Reducing stress
- Getting enough sleep
- Quitting smoking, if you do
By following these steps, you can potentially prevent various types of thyroid disease.
How We Diagnose Thyroid Disease
At BMI, we take a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid conditions. Below is our process.
Medical History
Certain thyroid conditions are hereditary, so we look at your family medical history to determine if this may be the case.
Physical Exam
Your doctor gently feels your neck for swelling or other signs of inflammation that come with thyroid conditions.
Imaging
We use ultrasound and nuclear medicine to look for thyroid nodules, goiters, or other signs of thyroid conditions.
Blood Test
A blood test that measures TSH levels can be used to diagnose both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
How to Treat Thyroid Disease
While you can manage some symptoms of thyroid disease at home, it is best to consult an endocrine specialist who can create a treatment plan, which may include:
Radioactive Iodine Therapy
Radioactive iodine therapy works by delivering radiation to the thyroid gland, which prevents it from producing high levels of thyroid hormone. This treatment can be administered orally as a liquid or capsule or injected into a vein. It’s typically a one-time treatment performed at an outpatient facility.
Medication
Medications, including anti-thyroid drugs like methimazole and propylthiouracil, can prevent the thyroid from producing too many hormones. Meanwhile, beta-blockers can help manage symptoms like increased heart rates. Your physician can recommend which type of medication is right for you and your condition.
Surgery
For thyroid conditions that cannot be controlled with medication, surgery may be required. Depending on the condition being treated, all or part of the thyroid gland may be removed. Consulting with a surgeon, like those at BMI, can help you determine if this would be an appropriate treatment for your condition.
Manage Your Thyroid Disease With BMI
Symptoms of thyroid disease can affect your daily routine. With effective treatment from BMI, you can get back to normal faster. Our team specializes in endocrine disorders, so we can create a custom treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us at (205) 858-1211.
Find Effective Thyroid Disease Treatment at BMI
If you have thyroid disease, contact BMI at (205) 858-1211. Our team can create a treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your condition and allows you to continue your daily activities. Schedule an appointment today to get started!
