There are many different types of thyroid disorders, and these disorders can range in seriousness from mild in nature to serious. Goitre, for example, is thyroid glandular swelling that may be caused by an immune response or iodine deficiency.
The most common thyroid problems involve the abnormal production of thyroid hormone. Too much thyroid hormone results in a condition known as hyperthyroidism. Insufficient hormone production leads to hypothyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism may be the result of an autoimmune disease, and treatment is often necessary to alleviate the thyroid disorders symptoms caused by these illnesses. In some cases, the underlying culprit for thyroid problems is cancer, and this should be treated promptly.
Symptoms of a Poorly Functioning Thyroid
It can be difficult to identify thyroid disorder symptoms because these symptoms are also associated with many other common ailments such as the common cold. However, chronic fatigue, weariness, nausea, fever, achiness, loss of appetite, or dramatic weight fluctuation are all signs of a serious thyroid problem that should be treated immediately.
Treating the Problem, Not the Symptoms
Unfortunately, there is a trend in western medicine that involves treating the symptoms rather than the underlying issue. When many patients experience symptoms of a damaged or defective thyroid, medication may be prescribed or lifestyle changes recommended, intended to improve or reduce these symptoms. So, patients will be receiving medication for muscle aches, medication for improved energy levels, and medication for helping to improve mood swings. These medications may mask the symptoms or make symptoms more manageable, but they do nothing to treat the thyroid problem and improve health quality at the source.
Patients often have to be their own advocates when it comes to personal health. Regular self-examinations can help people identify swelling, tenderness, or inflammation of the thyroid. If you believe that you are experiencing a thyroid issue, a simple blood test can evaluate the levels of thyroid-produced hormones in your blood stream. If these levels are too high or too low, a thyroid problem likely exists.
Treatment Options for Thyroid Disorders
There are treatment options that are designed specifically to address a poorly functioning thyroid. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy can provide excellent treatment for an underactive thyroid gland. These hormones perfectly mimic the hormones present in the human body, and they can be used to counteract the effects of a thyroid disorder. Thyroid disorder symptoms can be frustrating and quite dangerous, and this is why treating the source of the problem is such a necessity.
If you have questions or concerns about thyroid problems make an appointment to see our thyroid surgeon.
