Who is the best doctor to treat thyroid conditions. What are the key differences between endocrinologists and primary care physicians for thyroid care. When should you see a specialist for thyroid problems. How to choose the right thyroid doctor for your needs.

Understanding Thyroid Disease and Its Treatment

Thyroid disease is a common endocrine disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ in the neck, produces too much or too little thyroid hormone. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall body function.

When it comes to treating thyroid conditions, patients often wonder which type of doctor they should see. While primary care physicians can manage some thyroid issues, endocrinologists specialize in hormonal disorders and may be better equipped to handle complex cases.

Types of Thyroid Conditions

• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• Graves’ disease
• Thyroid nodules
• Thyroid cancer

The Role of Primary Care Physicians in Thyroid Treatment

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing thyroid symptoms. These doctors can diagnose and treat many common thyroid conditions, particularly hypothyroidism.

PCPs are typically comfortable monitoring thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and adjusting thyroid hormone replacement medication. For many patients with straightforward thyroid issues, a primary care doctor may be sufficient for ongoing management.

When Can a PCP Manage Thyroid Disease?

• Uncomplicated hypothyroidism
• Routine thyroid hormone replacement therapy
• Regular TSH monitoring
• Initial thyroid function screening

The Expertise of Endocrinologists in Thyroid Care

Endocrinologists are specialists who focus on hormonal disorders, including thyroid conditions. They undergo additional training beyond internal medicine to develop expertise in diagnosing and treating complex endocrine issues.

An endocrinologist’s specialized knowledge can be particularly valuable for patients with complicated thyroid disorders or those who haven’t responded well to initial treatments.

Why See an Endocrinologist for Thyroid Problems?

1. Specialized training in hormonal disorders
2. Experience with complex thyroid cases
3. Access to advanced diagnostic tools
4. Ability to manage multiple endocrine conditions
5. Up-to-date knowledge of thyroid treatment options

When to Consult an Endocrinologist for Thyroid Issues

While primary care physicians can manage many thyroid conditions, certain situations warrant a referral to an endocrinologist. These specialists are better equipped to handle complex cases and provide targeted treatment plans.

Situations Requiring an Endocrinologist’s Expertise

• Pregnancy or planning pregnancy with thyroid disease
• Pediatric thyroid disorders
• Presence of thyroid nodules or goiter
• Hyperthyroidism, including Graves’ disease
• Secondary hypothyroidism (pituitary-related)
• Thyroid eye disease
• Suspected thyroid cancer
• Difficulty achieving stable thyroid hormone levels
• Multiple endocrine disorders

Collaborative Care: PCPs and Endocrinologists Working Together

In many cases, the most effective thyroid care involves collaboration between primary care physicians and endocrinologists. This team approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive treatment tailored to their specific needs.

How Does Collaborative Thyroid Care Work?

A typical collaborative care model might involve the following steps:

1. Initial diagnosis by the PCP
2. Referral to an endocrinologist for specialized assessment
3. Development of a treatment plan by the endocrinologist
4. Ongoing management shared between PCP and endocrinologist
5. Regular check-ins with the endocrinologist for complex cases

Choosing the Right Thyroid Doctor for Your Needs

Selecting the most appropriate doctor for your thyroid care depends on several factors, including the complexity of your condition, your overall health, and your personal preferences.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Thyroid Doctor

• Severity and type of thyroid condition
• Presence of other health issues
• Pregnancy status or family planning goals
• Insurance coverage and referral requirements
• Accessibility and location of the doctor
• Communication style and patient-doctor rapport

The Role of Other Practitioners in Thyroid Care

While endocrinologists and primary care physicians are the primary medical professionals involved in thyroid treatment, some patients seek additional support from other healthcare practitioners. These complementary approaches can sometimes provide a more holistic perspective on thyroid health.

Complementary Thyroid Care Providers

• Naturopathic doctors
• Functional medicine practitioners
• Nutritionists specializing in thyroid health
• Acupuncturists
• Herbalists

It’s important to note that while these practitioners may offer valuable insights, their care should complement, not replace, the treatment provided by a licensed medical doctor specializing in thyroid disorders.

Navigating Your Thyroid Healthcare Journey

Managing thyroid disease is often a lifelong commitment that requires ongoing care and monitoring. Understanding the roles of different healthcare providers can help you navigate your thyroid health journey more effectively.

Tips for Successful Thyroid Disease Management

1. Educate yourself about your specific thyroid condition
2. Keep detailed records of your symptoms and treatment history
3. Prepare questions for your doctor before appointments
4. Be proactive in discussing any concerns or changes in your health
5. Follow your prescribed treatment plan consistently
6. Consider seeking a second opinion for complex cases
7. Stay informed about new developments in thyroid care

By taking an active role in your thyroid health management and working closely with the right healthcare providers, you can optimize your treatment outcomes and overall well-being.

The Importance of Regular Thyroid Check-ups

Regardless of whether you’re seeing a primary care physician or an endocrinologist for your thyroid care, regular check-ups are crucial for maintaining optimal thyroid health. These appointments allow your doctor to monitor your thyroid function, adjust treatment as needed, and catch any potential complications early.

What to Expect During Thyroid Check-ups

• Review of symptoms and overall health
• Physical examination, including neck palpation
• Blood tests to check thyroid hormone levels
• Discussion of medication effectiveness and side effects
• Adjustments to treatment plan if necessary
• Screening for related health conditions

The frequency of these check-ups may vary depending on your specific condition and treatment plan. Initially, you might need more frequent visits, but as your thyroid function stabilizes, you may be able to space out appointments to every six months or annually.

Empowering Yourself as a Thyroid Patient

Living with a thyroid condition can be challenging, but being an informed and proactive patient can make a significant difference in your care and quality of life. By understanding your options for thyroid care providers and actively participating in your treatment decisions, you can take control of your thyroid health.

Strategies for Thyroid Patient Empowerment

1. Join thyroid support groups or online communities
2. Read reputable sources about thyroid health and new research
3. Advocate for yourself if you feel your concerns aren’t being addressed
4. Consider seeking a second opinion if you’re unsatisfied with your care
5. Explore lifestyle modifications that can support thyroid health
6. Communicate openly with your healthcare team about your goals and preferences

Remember that finding the right doctor and treatment plan may take time and patience. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, voice concerns, or seek additional opinions if needed. Your thyroid health is an essential component of your overall well-being, and you deserve care that addresses your individual needs and preferences.

The Future of Thyroid Care: Emerging Trends and Technologies

As medical science advances, new approaches to thyroid diagnosis and treatment are emerging. Staying informed about these developments can help you make more informed decisions about your thyroid care.

Innovative Trends in Thyroid Management

• Personalized medicine based on genetic profiles
• Advanced imaging techniques for more precise diagnosis
• Novel drug therapies for treatment-resistant thyroid conditions
• Telemedicine options for remote thyroid care
• Artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis and treatment planning

While many of these innovations are still in development or early adoption stages, they highlight the ongoing efforts to improve thyroid care. Discussing these advancements with your healthcare provider can help you stay at the forefront of thyroid treatment options.

Making the Most of Your Thyroid Doctor Visits

Whether you’re seeing a primary care physician or an endocrinologist for your thyroid care, maximizing the effectiveness of your appointments is crucial. Preparation and active participation can lead to more productive discussions and better outcomes.

Tips for Effective Thyroid Doctor Appointments

1. Keep a symptom diary to track changes between visits
2. Bring a list of all medications and supplements you’re taking
3. Prepare specific questions about your condition and treatment
4. Be honest about any lifestyle changes or challenges you’re facing
5. Ask for clarification if you don’t understand something
6. Discuss any concerns about medication side effects or treatment effectiveness
7. Request copies of your test results for your personal records

By approaching your thyroid care as a partnership with your healthcare provider, you can ensure that you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for your individual needs.

In conclusion, managing thyroid health often requires a multifaceted approach involving various healthcare professionals. Whether you’re primarily under the care of a primary care physician or an endocrinologist, the key is to find a provider or team that addresses your specific needs and concerns. By staying informed, proactive, and engaged in your care, you can navigate the complexities of thyroid disease and work towards optimal health and well-being.

Do You Need to See an Endocrinologist for Your Thyroid Disease?

In most cases, the diagnosis of a thyroid condition is made by a person’s primary care doctor, who may then refer you to an endocrinologist, a physician who treats hormone problems like thyroid disease and others. But that’s not always the case—or necessary. Sometimes, your general practitioner is comfortable managing your thyroid condition on his own, and this is perfectly sensible for certain thyroid diagnoses.

There are other healthcare practitioners, such as naturopaths and chiropractors, who also treat thyroid patients. While their expertise may be helpful as a complement to your thyroid care, it should not be a substitute for that of a primary care doctor or endocrinologist.

How to Work With Your Thyroid Medical Team

As managing thyroid disease can be challenging and is, in most cases, a lifelong commitment, it’s important to have the right team of professionals helping you along the way.

Thyroid Disease Doctor Discussion Guide

Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.

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Primary Care Doctors

Your primary care doctor may be able to manage your thyroid disease, especially if you are diagnosed with hypothyroidism. This is because most primary care doctors are comfortable and trained to monitor thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and adjust thyroid hormone replacement medication accordingly

That said, there are some specific situations that warrant a referral to an endocrinologist.

• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• A newborn or child with a thyroid condition
• Presence of thyroid nodules or an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
• Any type of hyperthyroidism, including Graves’ disease
• Secondary hypothyroidism (if a pituitary problem is causing hypothyroidism)
• Thyroid eye disease
• Suspected thyroid cancer

Endocrinologists

An endocrinologist is a doctor who completes training in internal medicine (like a primary care physician) and then undergoes more training (usually two to three years) in the field of endocrinology.

Endocrinologists diagnose and treat hormonal imbalances, usually due to various gland conditions, such as:

• Thyroid disorders
• Diabetes
• Osteoporosis and bone health
• Adrenal disorders
• Pituitary disorders
• Menopause issues in women
• Testosterone problems in men2

While primary care doctors can manage some endocrine conditions, like “textbook” hypothyroidism and diabetes, other conditions warrant the care of an endocrinologist, like pituitary or adrenal gland problems or hyperthyroidism.

Even if you have “textbook” hypothyroidism, do not be surprised if your primary care doctor refers you to an endocrinologist. This can be for a number of reasons—perhaps you have multiple other medical problems (making your case a complex one), or perhaps your doctor does not have a lot of experience treating patients with such a disorder.

Sometimes, primary care doctors simply want an “extra set of eyes” from an endocrinologist, whether that’s taking a second look at your diagnostic test results and/or modifying your treatment plan—all of this is OK, if not, a sign of good care.

Depending on your diagnosis and treatment plan, your endocrinologist may opt to manage your condition on his own, as in the case of Graves’ disease or monitoring thyroid nodules.

Alternatively, your endocrinologist may work alongside your primary care doctor to manage your condition. For example, your primary care doctor may refer you to an endocrinologist for an initial diagnosis of Hashimoto’s disease. Once your endocrinologist stabilizes your thyroid hormone replacement dose, your primary care doctor may then follow your TSH levels. You may then only see your endocrinologist if a problem arises, or once a year for a check-in.

Other Practitioners

Many thyroid patients look to seek out 360-treatment plan—that is, one that includes the expertise of practitioners of different disciplines and takes a “whole body” approach. Naturopaths and chiropractors are two professionals who are sometimes consulted.

If you consult with these or other practitioners, be sure that you only do so as an adjunct to your care by a primary care doctor or endocrinologist. He or she should also be aware of any treatments recommended by other clinicians.

Naturopathic Doctors

A licensed naturopathic doctor (ND) graduates from a four-year graduate level holistic medical school. Their approach to healthcare tends to be more integrative perhaps than traditional doctors in that NDs believe no part of your body operates in complete isolation from the rest of the system.3

So, for example, an ND may discuss the aspects of how nutrition affects thyroid disorders and make sure that you have a diet plan that works to support your thyroid health. In addition, by ordering labs and imaging tests, an ND may evaluate other hormones such as the sex hormone estrogen and cortisol (the “stress hormone” produced by your adrenals glands).

Complement to Your Thyroid Care

While an integrative approach to your thyroid health is appealing, NDs do not necessarily follow the guidelines recommended by professional societies like the American Thyroid Association (ATA) or the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE).

For instance, for the treatment of hypothyroidism, many NDs prescribe desiccated thyroid hormone, which is derived from the dried thyroid glands of pigs or cows and provides both T4 (thyroxine) and triiodothyronine (T3). Alternative names include natural thyroid, thyroid extract, porcine thyroid, pig thyroid; brand names include Nature-throid and Armour Thyroid.

This type of thyroid hormone replacement medication provides a ratio of T4:T3 that is not natural to humans (4:1 instead of 16:1), which tends to produce some degree of hyperthyroidism. That is why most expert bodies (the AACE and ATA, for instance) do not recommend its usage, except for perhaps select patients. Instead, for the vast majority of patients, experts recommend sticking with levothyroxine alone (brand names: Synthroid, Levoxyl, and Tirosint).4

Lastly, some NDs practice botanical medicine, recommending herbs for the care of various medical problems. Taking herbs and supplements can be especially harmful to a person with thyroid disease as they may interfere with your medication and/or the functioning of your thyroid gland.

Chiropractors

According to the American Chiropractic Association, chiropractors are designated as “physician-level providers,” in the vast majority of states. While the doctor of chiropractic (DC) program is similar to the doctor of medicine (MD) program in the first two years, the programs diverge in the second half. During this time, the DC program focuses on diet, nutrition, and spinal manipulation, while the MD program emphasizes the study of pharmacology.5

Complement to Your Thyroid Care

While your chiropractor may have been the one to diagnose your thyroid disease (they can order laboratory tests and imaging studies, like a naturopath), once diagnosed, your chiropractor must refer you to a medical doctor for proper treatment—for instance, thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism and either an anti-thyroid drug, surgery, or radioactive iodine ablation for hyperthyroidism.

Chiropractors can, however, provide supportive thyroid care, such as nutritional guidance or ways to ease musculoskeletal pain associated with the underlying thyroid disease (like carpal tunnel syndrome or joint aches).

Chiropractors are legally prohibited from prescribing thyroid medication, which means that they cannot treat or cure thyroid conditions.

A Word From Verywell

The decision to find a doctor for your thyroid care can be a challenging one, as the relationship is an intensely personal one, and it’s not easy to find the right match, particularly when you may be limited by geography and insurance.

Remain proactive in seeking out the right doctor-patient relationship. And keep a positive mindset, too. When you find that trusting, compassionate partnership, you will just know it.

When Should You See An Endocrinologist For Thyroid Problems?

Content

• Overview
• Who treats thyroid disease?
• Do you need an endocrinologist for hypothyroidism?
• Why should you see an endocrinologist?
• How is it diagnosed?
• What is the treatment?
• The lowdown
• Frequently asked questions

What is thyroid disease?

Thyroid disease is an umbrella term that covers several different diseases, all of which affect the function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid is a small gland in your throat. It produces hormones that can travel around the body and help to regulate regular bodily functions. 

Because the thyroid’s main function is to produce hormones, it is part of the endocrine system. This is a series of organs throughout the body that are responsible for producing hormones to regulate other bodily systems. 

Thyroid dysfunction is usually a result of autoimmunity, where the body begins to produce antibodies to attack itself, effectively telling the immune system to target and destroy working cells in the body. This causes the thyroid to stop working, as the cells are being destroyed by the immune system when they aren’t supposed to be. 

This autoimmunity can be genetic and inherited, or it can be triggered by environmental causes or a mix of both. Thyroid disorders are actually quite common, so it’s a good idea to be familiar with the symptoms. 

What are the main signs and symptoms?

The main signs of the most common thyroid disease (hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid) are:

• Overly tired

• Cold sensitive

• Unexplained weight gain

• Constipation

• Depression

• Slow movement or slow thoughts

• Muscle aches, cramps, or weakness

• Dry or scaly skin

• Brittle hair and nails

• Loss of sex drive

• Tingling, numbness, or pain in the hand

• Irregular or heavy periods

Severe symptoms are uncommon, as most cases get caught before progressing to this stage. These symptoms include:

How does the disease progress?

Thyroid diseases have different progressions depending on the cause of the disease. If it is genetic, it will have a different rate of progression to a thyroid issue caused by cancer or an environmental cause. 

However, the diseases all follow the same general trends. To begin with, the disease is subclinical, and if not treated, it runs the risk of progressing to overt. These stage names are just terms clinicians use to classify the severity of the disease, which is usually related to how long you have had dysfunctional thyroid activity. 

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As thyroid disease can be diagnosed by a simple blood test, you will often be diagnosed by your GP. However, because your thyroid is so important in regulating the other organs around the body, they may refer you to a specialist for treatment. These specialists are known as endocrinologists. 

Who are endocrinologists?

Endocrinologists are doctors who specialize in endocrinology. This field of study is related to the endocrine system, the series of organs that produce the regulating hormones we mentioned earlier. 

Endocrinologists are usually seen at least once, usually shortly after diagnosis. They will review the diagnosis and treatment plan to ensure that your primary healthcare provider is capable of managing your condition. However, it is unusual to continue seeing them regularly. 

What is the role of primary care doctors?

A primary care doctor is your GP or the first doctor you consult when you start seeing symptoms. This doctor will be responsible for ordering tests to investigate symptoms you present with and may make a referral to an endocrinologist to confirm their suspicions of the disease.  

Often, your primary care physician will work with the endocrinologists to help you create a management strategy to minimize the effect of your disease on your way of life and overall health. 

Once your management strategy has been reviewed by the endocrinologist, you will likely maintain treatment with your primary care physician. This is to save you money, as your primary care physician will probably be less expensive than the specialist endocrinologist. 

Do you need a multidisciplinary care team?

A multidisciplinary care team can provide more perspectives and experience than a single person. Most people won’t need a large team of healthcare professionals because they won’t experience symptoms that are unmanageable by a general practitioner. 

You won’t always need to see an endocrinologist. In some cases, your physician might feel comfortable diagnosing and managing your treatment on their own. This is often the case if you have clinically typical symptoms or don’t have other complicating conditions.

However, some doctors will always use an endocrinologist as a consultant, and this is also completely fine. This might occur if your doctor wants to ensure they follow the best treatment plan for your specific condition or if you have a more complicated medical history.

They may also consult an endocrinologist if they haven’t had much experience in managing thyroid conditions. 

An endocrinologist should be consulted when you are pregnant or trying to conceive, have a thyroid nodule or an enlarged gland, or when the pituitary gland is involved in your hypothyroidism. You should also see an endocrinologist whenever suggested by your primary care physician. 

When to seek a second opinion

If you are unsatisfied with the next steps, you can either change physician, move practice, or consult your local patient advocacy group. You can also seek a second opinion if your symptoms don’t get better with your treatment plan.

You can look for endocrinologists yourself with this search engine. Please note that specialists will often require a referral before accepting patients.¹

Some patients also like to take a more holistic approach to their healthcare and will sometimes consult naturopaths. If you choose this approach, include your primary care physician and endocrinologist in your healthcare plan, and ensure everyone involved is aware of each treatment step. 

What are the different kinds of endocrinologists?

There are many different kinds of endocrinologists, depending on the special service they offer. Some of these specialties include:

For patients with a thyroid condition, a thyroid endocrinologist will be consulted. 

Thyroid diseases are diagnosed through a blood test. This test will measure the level of serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which is a hormone that activates the thyroid gland. If it is too low, you will have hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). If it is too high, you will have hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).  

Treatment for thyroid disorders will depend on the cause of your disorder. Since so many different causes and treatments are available, it is difficult to make an exhaustive list of treatments. Most commonly, thyroid issues can be managed through medication, although, in some cases, surgery or radiation may be needed. 

Thyroid conditions include hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. These occur when the thyroid gland in the neck isn’t functioning properly and can be caused by a wide range of conditions. 

Most often, this disorder can be managed by your primary care physician. However, you may occasionally need to see a specialist called an endocrinologist to get the best possible treatment. 

Should I see an endocrinologist for my thyroid?

Endocrinologists can be consulted for thyroid issues, but the first port of call for a healthcare issue should be your primary care physician. They will be able to refer you to an endocrinologist if needed. 

Should I see an ENT or endocrinologist for thyroid?

If you have thyroid issues, your doctor can tell you whether to see an endocrinologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Most often, a thyroid issue will be best suited to an endocrinologist. 

What doctor should you see if you think you have a thyroid problem?

If you suspect you have a thyroid problem, you should consult your primary care physician for a blood test. 

What can happen if hypothyroidism goes untreated?

If hypothyroidism goes untreated, you can get severe symptoms, such as a slow heart rate or anemia. However, the condition is often caught before it progresses to this stage.

which doctor treats the thyroid gland — PrimaDerm

Thyroid diseases are a fairly common problem. Violations of the normal functioning of this organ can lead to failures in the proper metabolism and other important body systems. Read more about how to treat thyroid gland in women and men in the article.

Location and function of the thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck. It belongs to the largest organ of internal secretion. It can affect the body even during its development in the womb. The organ includes two lobes, which are connected by an isthmus. Its appearance is similar to a butterfly.

This organ mainly produces hormones. They, in turn, contribute to the speed of metabolism and the overall development of the body. Among them are:

• thyroxine;
• triiodothyronine;
• calcitonin.

The first affects the cells of organs and tissues. The second is responsible for the development of the body, metabolic processes. The third affects the bones, muscle tissue.

Main diseases of the thyroid gland and their causes

This organ can change its size. This can happen due to lifestyle, stress, nutrition, ecology. The standard weight of an organ is 20-30 grams.
The appearance of various disorders in the body is not uncommon, and very often people have to look for the name of a doctor who treats the thyroid gland and can help them. Most of the patients are women. Often the cause of this is hormonal fluctuations, which can occur due to pregnancy, menopause, stress.
There are several signs that may indicate that a person needs thyroid treatment:

• the appearance of chronic fatigue;
• occurrence of depression;
• menstrual irregularity;
• changes in thermoregulation;
• throat discomfort and problems;
• sudden changes in body weight.

In the event of such symptoms, you should immediately determine which doctor treats the thyroid gland and make an appointment for a consultation. Among the most common diseases are hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter. Hypothyroidism of the thyroid gland is a common pathology of the endocrine system. It manifests itself on the basis of a decrease in functions and a lack of hormones. Among the main causes of this disease are anemia, heredity, exposure to serious drugs.
Hypoplasia of the thyroid gland is an abnormal condition. Such underdevelopment can occur due to a lack of iodine, the influence of radiation, alcoholism, poor heredity, changes in the autoimmune plan, and uncontrolled use of drugs.
If the process of division of new cells is disturbed, such a pathology as a tumor of the thyroid gland may occur. In many cases, this process is asymptomatic. It is most often possible to identify this case by diagnosing with a doctor or on your own. Possible symptoms that will indicate the disease include changes in the voice, shortness of breath, pain in the lower neck or chest.
Another common question for patients is how to treat multinodular thyroid goiter. At present, the exact cause of this deficiency has not been identified. The main factor in its appearance is considered a chronic lack of iodine. Genetic predisposition, problems with the autonomic nervous system, and poor ecology can also affect. Risk factors can be head injuries, immune disorders, hormonal disruptions. You can make an appointment with an endocrinologist on the website.

How to treat diseases of the thyroid gland?

A large number of thyroid diseases at various stages are treatable. In many cases, many consequences can be prevented. Features of treatment depend on the symptoms, tumor size, aggressiveness, prevalence. In any case, this is all determined individually.
Many patients may wonder where thyroid cancer is treated. The process takes place in professional clinics, after a thorough study of the problem by an endocrinologist.
One of the radical methods of treatment is surgery. Patients may be prescribed synthetic drugs, or drugs of animal origin. Another common therapy is radioactive iodine. Antibiotics and various hormones are also used for treatment.

How are women treated?

Women go to the doctor for treatment of thyroid disease much more often than men. This can happen due to genetic causes, autoimmune attacks, pregnancy, stress, malnutrition, the presence of a toxin. Signs that you need to treat an inflamed thyroid gland can be:

• exhaustion;
• depression;
• presence of nervousness and anxiety;
• change in appetite;
• decreased libido;
• dry skin;
• bowel dysfunction;
• high blood pressure;
• hair loss;
• pregnancy problems.

Treatment is based on the type and stage of the disease. For some, hormone therapy is suitable, and for some, surgery is required.

Treatment of the thyroid gland in men

In men, pathologies such as endemic goiter, tumors, hypothyroidism, thyrotoxicosis may occur. You should learn from a specialist how to treat thyroid gland in men. It is better not to self-medicate, but immediately do all the necessary examinations and diagnostics. An endocrinologist will help identify all the factors and conditions that adversely affect health. The type of procedure and the frequency of its implementation depends on individual indicators.

Research methods before thyroid treatment

To identify problems with the thyroid gland, you should make an appointment with an endocrinologist. The specialist will make a tactile and visual inspection. The doctor can also give a referral for:

• blood test;
• ultrasound;
• control of changes in sugar;
• thyroid puncture.

A popular method is a blood test that detects hormone levels. Such tests allow you to identify various diseases in the initial stages and begin immediate treatment. It is also recommended to consult with experts regarding the diet.
Doctors recommend an annual preventive examination of the thyroid gland. You can sign up for an ultrasound of the thyroid gland in Dnipro right now on the website. PrimaDerm Clinic guarantees quality and professional service. If necessary, even small children can be diagnosed. For testing, professional equipment is used, which allows you to get the most accurate conclusion and make a diagnosis.

What if the thyroid gland is not treated?

Thyroid nodules and other diseases should be treated on the basis of a thorough diagnosis. Some patients may be given additional medications to help relieve heart palpitations, anxiety, and other causes.
If timely treatment is not taken up, this can lead to negative consequences and significant complications. For example, patients in whom the gland has been completely or partially removed should undergo replacement therapy in a timely manner, otherwise it threatens with systemic disorders.

Another common problem can be a lump in the throat with thyroid. This problem can occur quite often and should not be ignored and left to chance. The appearance of an unpleasant coma can be a signal of the presence of inflammation and swelling of the thyroid gland. In this case, the gland may not increase, but discomfort will be present in the throat. Therefore, it is extremely important, when this symptom is detected, to seek help from a specialist and diagnose using technology.
It is also important to carry out timely treatment of thyroid cysts. This disease may be asymptomatic. There may also be pain, hoarseness in the voice, suffocation. If this disease is not treated, it can develop into dangerous inflammation and suppuration of the nodes, malignant degeneration.
It is also necessary to treat thyroid nodules in time. The reason for the appearance of this disease can be a lack of iodine in the body, the negative effects of radiation, hereditary factors. The disease can be exacerbated by the accompanying stresses and heavy loads.

Disease prevention

The most proven way to prevent thyroid disease is a healthy lifestyle. This is about prevention, not cure.
First of all, you should watch your food. The diet should not contain fatty foods, fried foods, high sugar content. It is recommended to include the required amount of iodine in the daily menu. Fish, seafood, seaweed will be an excellent addition to the diet.

Also, do not forget about the benefits of fruits and vegetables. They need to be used all year round. Adding iodized salt to food will be another effective prevention method.
If you notice sudden changes in body weight, without any apparent reason, you should contact a specialist. Also, do not forget about morning exercises, walks in the fresh air, small workouts. It is best to give up bad habits such as alcohol and smoking. To do an ultrasound, you should make an appointment on the website.

who is this specialist and what does he treat?

An endocrinologist is a medical expert who specializes in diagnosing and treating the human endocrine system. The doctor deals with the normalization of hormonal regulation, which often suffers from overloads of the body, the action of external factors and the influence of bad habits. Let’s take a closer look at the question – who is an endocrinologist and what does he treat?

When should I see a doctor?

Endocrine diseases are extensive and complex in their manifestations. “Thanks” to what it is quite difficult to determine whether it is necessary to go for a consultation with a doctor. However, there are generalized symptoms that indicate endocrine problems.

These include:

1. feeling very tired for no reason;
2. excessive sweating, aggravated by slight rises or falls in temperature;
3. decreased appetite;
4. trembling in limbs;
5. deterioration in the appearance of hair and nails;
6. sleep disorders;
7. palpitations;
8. weight jumps for no apparent reason;
9. depressed mood, decreased alertness;
10. itching on mucous membranes;
11. dry mouth;
12. muscle weakness.

Advice: it is necessary to consult a doctor when planning a pregnancy. This is a necessity, because a lack of iodine in the body of a future mother can lead to serious negative consequences. It is recommended to visit an expert when choosing contraceptives. It is also necessary to seek advice after reaching the age of 50 to control age-related changes.

What ailments can an endocrinologist help to overcome?

The doctor works with human organs that are involved in the regulation of internal systems. These can be the adrenal glands, thyroid gland, gonads, pituitary gland, pancreas, thymus gland, hypothalamus.

List of ailments treated by the expert:

• diabetes insipidus is a disease that occurs as a result of a malfunction of the pituitary gland. The symptom is a constant feeling of thirst, which leads to frequent urination;
• autoimmune disorders – lack of iodine in the body leads to an increase in the size of the thyroid gland and a malfunction in its functioning;
• diabetes mellitus – diseases caused by deficiency of insulin in the body;
• malfunctions in metabolism and absorption of calcium – low or high concentration of calcium in the blood;
• acromegaly – excessive production of growth hormone;
• Cushing’s disease – a disease that leads to disorders of the adrenal glands;
• neuropsychiatric disorders;
• obesity;
• sexual dysfunction.

How is the doctor’s examination?

Diagnosis of the disease begins with the collection of data and the identification of symptoms that disturb the patient. Further, the expert, depending on the need, can feel the glands and genitals for their normal state, in order to confirm or refute the inflammatory processes in the body.

An additional test may be listening to the heart rhythm and measuring blood pressure. To establish an accurate diagnosis, MRI, puncture, ultrasound can be prescribed.

An endocrinologist also deals with the issue of the patient’s metabolism and normal weight, so there may be electronic scales and a centimeter tape in his office. The doctor also has a neurological kit for diabetic neuropathy.

Examination of children by an endocrinologist

An endocrinologist is not only an adult doctor, even the smallest patients may need his help. Hormonal imbalance is observed in children as well. Thyroid problems are the most common.