Thyroid Disorders
The most common thyroid disorders include hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Having hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can be both unpleasant and uncomfortable, but these thyroid conditions can be managed if properly diagnosed and treated.
What is hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid makes too much of the thyroid hormone, called thyroxine. Your thyroid controls your metabolism, and hyperthyroidism can speed up your metabolism to above-normal levels.
What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
- Rapid weight loss
- Excessive sweating
- Insomnia
- High blood pressure
- A rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Eye sensitivity
- Anxiety
What causes hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is a form of hormonal imbalance; in this case the thyroid gland is over-productive. This can cause a host of health problems, so as a first test your doctor will likely check your hormone levels.
What are the risks of untreated hyperthyroidism?
If left untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to heart problems, brittle bones, eye problems, and a condition called thyroid storm in which the heart rate is increased to dangerously high levels.
How is hyperthyroidism treated?
In addition to things such as medication and lifestyle changes, hyperthyroid treatment typically consists of hormone replacement therapy. In particular bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) which equalizes your thyroid gland by using hormones that are identical to those produced in your body naturally.
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid does not make enough of the most important thyroid hormones called triiodothyronine (T-3) and thyroxine (T-4).
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Some more common symptoms of hypothyroidism include the following:
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness or stiffness
- Dry or cold skin
- Heavy or irregular menstrual periods
- Constipation
- Elevated blood cholesterol level
- Slowed heart rate
- Depression
- Low libido
- Joint pain
- Cold extremities
- Foggy brain
- Hair thinning or falling out
- Reduced attention span
- Inability to lose weight
What causes hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a form of hormonal imbalance; in this case the thyroid gland is under-productive. Your doctor will check for a hormone deficiency before beginning any treatment.
What are the risks of untreated hypothyroidism?
If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to myxedema, a condition that causes tissues to swell, increases fluid around the lungs and heart, and slows down muscle reflexes. A myxedema coma may cause you to lose consciousness, experience trouble breathing, and can potentially lead to heart failure. Hypothyroidism can also cause mental health issues like depression and slowed mental functioning.
How is hypothyroidism treated?
Like hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism can be treated with BHRT. With bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, your doctor can raise your thyroid levels and provide relief.
Have a Healthy Thyroid
If you think you’re experiencing the symptoms of a thyroid disorder, it’s best to start treatment right away. Please call (870) 642-8818 or contact us online.