Millions of Americans are diagnosed with a thyroid condition each year. Thyroid disease is a common endocrine disorder, and can cause a wide range of symptoms, from fatigue and weight gain to depression and anxiety. Being educated on thyroid disease will help you better understand the cause, symptoms, and treatments available.
Luckily for you, AFC Urgent Care New Britain has created a guide to help you understand thyroid disease and how it can potentially harm your health. Not only will this guide help you understand the causes, the symptoms, and the treatments available for Thyroid disease. But it will also assure you that this disease is manageable.
Thyroid Disease Education
Thyroid disease occurs when there is an imbalance of the two main hormones the Thyroid produces : triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). If the gland produces too much, then, we’re looking at hyperthyroidism. If the gland under produces, then, we’re looking at Hypothyroidism. Let’s also keep in mind that there are other Thyroid Diseases, as well. Some of these Diseases include:
- Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
- Thyroid cancer
- Thyroid tumors
- Graves Disease
Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism are the two common categories when it comes to Thyroid disease.
Hypothyroidism:
With hypothyroidism your thyroid gland can’t make enough hormones to function well.. In hypothyroidism, the gland’s hormone production slows. This, in turn, slows your metabolism, which can lead to weight gain and other symptoms.
Hyperthyroidism:
As its name suggests, hyperthyroidism occurs when your body makes too much of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), and becomes overactive. If you have hyperthyroidism, you may experience a fast heartbeat, increased appetite, anxiety, sensitivity to heat, or sudden weight loss.
What Are The Symptoms for Thyroid disease?
Thyroid disease symptoms can be easily mistaken for other common diseases or illnesses. If you experience the following symptoms, it’s highly recommended to seek medical attention.
Underproducing symptoms (Hypothyroidism)
- Having muscle weakness and tremors.
- Experiencing irregular menstrual periods or having your menstrual cycle stop.
- Feeling sensitive to heat.
- Having vision problems or eye irritation.
- Having trouble sleeping
Overproducing symptoms (Hyperthyroidism)
- Having dry and coarse hair.
- Having a hoarse voice.
- Experiencing an intolerance to cold temperatures.
- Feeling fatigue
- Gaining weight
Testing For Thyroid Disease
Our medical professionals at AFC Urgent Care New Britain can pinpoint any problems your thyroid gland may be suffering. As broad as the Thyroid symptoms can be, our medical staff has specific tests to make sure your Thyroid Gland is doing what it’s supposed to be doing.
Some exams may include:
- Blood testing
- Physical examination
- Medical History Review
These tests will give the doctor and yourself further understanding of what your Thyroid gland is doing and how it’s doing.
Life With Thyroid Disease
If you’ve been diagnosed with a thyroid condition, it’s important to manage it effectively. Managing your thyroid disease may include dietary changes, lifestyle changes, medications and/or other treatments. It’s important to be open and honest with your doctor in order to get the right treatment you need. For the most part, Thyroid disease will not interrupt a normal lifestyle. Exercising is advisable and a Thyroid condition will not impact any exercise routine.
Get In Touch With AFC Urgent Care New Britain To Get Tested For Thyroid Disease
AFC Urgent Care New Britain is here to attend you. Our doors are open 7 days a week and we take in walk-ins as well as appointments. Our medical professionals will be here and will do the best they can to attend you. Do not hesitate to ask any questions or state any concerns you may have.
