Who should you see for thyroid problems. How are thyroid disorders diagnosed. What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Why do thyroid conditions often go undiagnosed. What treatment options are available for thyroid disorders.

Understanding the Thyroid Gland and Its Function

The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in our body’s endocrine system. Located at the base of the neck, just below the larynx, this butterfly-shaped gland produces two essential hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones are responsible for regulating the body’s metabolism, affecting various processes such as breathing and muscle contraction.

Why is the thyroid gland so important? It acts as the body’s metabolic control center, influencing energy conversion and utilization. When the thyroid functions properly, it maintains a delicate balance of hormones that keep our bodily processes running smoothly. However, when this balance is disrupted, it can lead to a range of thyroid disorders.

Common Thyroid Disorders and Their Prevalence

Thyroid disorders are more common than many people realize. The main types of thyroid conditions include:

• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Thyroid nodules

Did you know that thyroid problems disproportionately affect women? Women are 5-8 times more likely to develop a thyroid disorder compared to men. In fact, approximately 20 million Americans currently have some form of thyroid disease. This high prevalence underscores the importance of awareness and early detection.

Why should we be concerned about undiagnosed thyroid disease? Untreated thyroid disorders can lead to serious health complications, including:

• Increased risk of osteoporosis
• Fertility issues
• Cardiovascular disease
• Complications during pregnancy (for hypothyroidism), such as preterm delivery, developmental problems in the baby, and miscarriage

Is there a genetic component to thyroid disorders? Yes, if you have a family member with thyroid disease, your risk of developing a thyroid condition at some point in your life increases. This genetic predisposition makes regular screening even more crucial for those with a family history of thyroid problems.

Diagnosing Thyroid Disorders: Challenges and Methods

Diagnosing thyroid disorders can be challenging due to the overlap of symptoms with other health conditions. How do doctors determine if you have a thyroid problem? The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Physical examination
2. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test
3. Radioactive iodine uptake or thyroid scan
4. Additional blood tests to check T3 and T4 hormone levels, if necessary

The TSH test is considered the most accurate for diagnosing both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism in most situations. Why is the TSH test so crucial? TSH, produced by the pituitary gland, helps regulate thyroid hormone production. When thyroid hormone levels fluctuate, the pituitary gland responds by adjusting TSH levels accordingly.

Hyperthyroidism: When the Thyroid Goes into Overdrive

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormones. But what causes this overproduction? The leading cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system triggers the thyroid to overproduce hormones.

Who is most at risk for hyperthyroidism? While it can affect anyone, Graves’ disease is most common in women over the age of 20. However, men can also develop this condition.

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

How can you recognize the signs of an overactive thyroid? Common symptoms include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Unexplained weight loss
• Increased appetite
• Nervousness and anxiety
• Tremors in hands and fingers
• Sweating
• Changes in menstrual patterns
• Increased sensitivity to heat

Hypothyroidism: When the Thyroid Underperforms

Hypothyroidism is the opposite of hyperthyroidism – it occurs when the thyroid gland is underactive and doesn’t produce enough hormones to meet the body’s needs. This deficiency can slow down many bodily functions.

Who is most likely to develop hypothyroidism? While it can affect anyone at any age, hypothyroidism is most common in women over 50. Additionally, individuals with a family history of autoimmune diseases have an increased risk of developing this condition.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

How does hypothyroidism manifest? Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Dry skin
• Constipation
• Depression
• Muscle weakness
• Joint or muscle pain
• Thinning hair

Seeking Medical Care: Primary Care Physicians vs. Endocrinologists

When should you see a doctor for thyroid issues? If you’re experiencing symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, it’s essential to seek medical attention. But who should you see – a primary care physician or an endocrinologist?

Many primary care physicians are capable of diagnosing and treating mild cases of hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and thyroiditis. However, if symptoms are severe or do not improve within a few months, it’s advisable to consult an endocrinologist.

Why might you need to see an endocrinologist? Endocrinologists are specialists in hormone-related disorders, including thyroid conditions. They have extensive experience in diagnosing complex cases and managing treatment for more severe or persistent thyroid disorders.

Treatment Options for Thyroid Disorders

How are thyroid disorders treated? The treatment approach depends on the specific condition and its severity. Here are some common treatment options:

Hyperthyroidism Treatment

• Anti-thyroid medications: These drugs help reduce the production of thyroid hormones
• Radioactive iodine: This treatment destroys overactive thyroid cells
• Beta-blockers: These medications can help manage symptoms like rapid heartbeat and tremors
• Surgery (thyroidectomy): In some cases, removal of part or all of the thyroid gland may be necessary

Hypothyroidism Treatment

• Thyroid hormone replacement therapy: Synthetic thyroid hormones, such as levothyroxine, are prescribed to replace the missing hormones
• Regular monitoring and dose adjustments: Treatment often requires ongoing management to ensure optimal hormone levels

Are there alternative treatments for thyroid disorders? While conventional medical treatments are the most widely accepted and proven methods, some patients explore complementary approaches such as dietary changes, stress reduction techniques, and certain supplements. However, it’s crucial to discuss any alternative treatments with your healthcare provider before implementing them.

The Importance of Thyroid Disease Awareness

Why is thyroid disease awareness so crucial? Despite affecting millions of Americans, thyroid disorders often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. January is recognized as Thyroid Disease Awareness Month to highlight the prevalence and impact of these conditions.

How many people might be affected by undiagnosed thyroid issues? Current estimates suggest that if the upper limit of the normal range for the TSH test were lowered from 5.0 mIU/L to 3.0 mIU/L, as recommended by some professional societies, an additional 22 million to 28 million people in the U.S. could be classified as hypothyroid.

Why do thyroid disorders often go undetected? According to Dr. Victor Bernet, Director of the National Capitol Consortium Endocrinology Fellowship at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, thyroid conditions can be tricky to discern. The symptoms often overlap with other health issues, making diagnosis challenging without proper testing.

Collaboration Between Primary Care Physicians and Specialists

How can primary care physicians and endocrinologists work together to manage thyroid disease effectively? A collaborative approach is often the most beneficial for patients. Primary care physicians play a crucial role in initial screening and management of mild cases, while endocrinologists can provide specialized care for more complex or severe cases.

What should patients expect in terms of ongoing care? Managing thyroid disorders often requires long-term monitoring and treatment adjustments. Regular check-ups and blood tests are typically necessary to ensure that hormone levels remain balanced and symptoms are well-controlled.

The Role of Patient Education

Why is patient education important in managing thyroid disorders? Understanding your condition and treatment plan is crucial for successful management. Patients should feel empowered to ask questions and discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers. This open communication can lead to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life.

How can patients stay informed about their thyroid health? Reliable sources of information include:

• Medical websites from reputable organizations
• Patient education materials provided by healthcare providers
• Support groups for individuals with thyroid disorders
• Regular consultations with your healthcare team

By staying informed and engaged in their care, patients can play an active role in managing their thyroid health effectively.

Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid disorder specialists at UC San Diego Health are experts in diagnosing and treating the symptoms and complications of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

The Thyroid Gland

The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck (just below the voice box, or larynx).

The thyroid gland is a vital part of the endocrine system. It’s responsible for producing two important hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4).

These hormones regulate the rate at which processes in the body (e.g., breathing, contracting muscles) convert and use energy (metabolism).

Thyroid conditions include:

• Hyperthyroidism
• Hypothyroidism
• Thyroid nodules

Did You Know?

• Women are 5-8 times more likely to have a thyroid problem.
• Approximately 20 million Americans currently have some form of thyroid disease.
• Undiagnosed thyroid disease can increase risk for osteoporosis, infertility and cardiovascular disease.
• Pregnant women with undiagnosed hypothyroidism have an increased risk for preterm delivery, developmental problems (in baby), and miscarriage.

• If a family member has thyroid disease, you have a higher chance of developing the disease at some point in your life. If you believe that you are having symptoms, it’s recommended that you come in for a screening.

Diagnosing Thyroid Disease

Diagnosing thyroid disease can be tricky, as the symptoms associated with thyroid disease can overlap and be confused with many different health problems.

To determine if you have a thyroid condition, your doctor may perform a physical exam, a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test and a radioactive iodine uptake or thyroid scan.

Depending on results of TSH test, additional blood tests may be needed to check the levels of one or both of your T3 and T4 hormones.

TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and helps regulate thyroid hormone production. When thyroid hormone levels drop or rise, the pituitary gland responds by dropping or raising TSH.

In most situations, the TSH test is the most accurate test for diagnosing both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.  

Overactive Thyroid Gland (Hyperthyroidism)

When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, this is known as hyperthyroidism.

Graves’ disease is the leading cause of hyperthyroidism. Graves’ disease is an autoimmune condition where your own immune system triggers your thyroid to overproduce thyroid hormone. It is most common in women over the age of 20, but can occur in men too.

Learn more about hyperthyroidism in our health library

Underactive Thyroid Gland (Hypothyroidism)

Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland is underactive or doesn’t produce enough hormones to meet the body’s needs. Many body functions require the hormones produced by your thyroid gland. Without them, functions slow down.

While hypothyroidism is most common in women 50 or older, it can occur in anyone – man or woman – at any age. People who have a parent or grandparent with an autoimmune disease also have an increased risk.Learn more about hypothyroidism in our health library

What Kind of Doctor Should You See?

Many primary care physicians can diagnose and treat mild hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism and thyroiditis. However, when symptoms are severe and do not improve on their own within a few months, you should be assessed by an endocrinologist.

Expert explains thyroid diagnosis, treatment and common red flags

January is thyroid disease awareness month, and awareness is warranted. There are currently
an estimated 25 million people in the U.S. with all kinds of thyroid problems, hyper-
and hypothyroid. But if the upper limit of the normal range of the thyroid-stimulating
hormone (TSH) test were reduced from 5. 0 mIU/L to 3.0 mIU/L, as recommended by some
professional societies, an additional 22 million to 28 million people would be considered
hypothyroid. And others with thyroid problems may not yet be diagnosed because these
conditions are tricky to discern.

Victor Bernet, FACP, is Director of the National Capitol Consortium Endocrinology
Fellowship at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., and the author
of MKSAP 15’s chapter on disorders of the thyroid gland. He recently offered his insights
on why thyroid disorders go undiagnosed, what alternative treatments are available,
and how primary care physicians and specialists can work together to manage thyroid
disease.

Q: It is estimated that more than 25 million Americans have thyroid disease, and as many
as half the people with thyroid problems don’t even know it. In your view, what are
the main reasons why so many thyroid disorders go undiagnosed?

A: I think the number is large because it includes mild cases of hypo- and hyperthyroidism
as well as nodules that don’t necessarily have symptoms, and when they do, they come
on so slowly that people misattribute them to other things. Take for example an elderly
person with hypothyroidism. They may attribute their fatigue to normal aging.

A. Colloid nodule with a cluster of normal follicular cells. (Papanicolaou, x60) B.
Specimen showing lymphocytes and Hürthle cells (Hashimoto thyroiditis). (Papanicolaou,
x60) C. Subacute (granulomatous) thyroiditis illustrated by inflammatory cells, giant
cells, and lack of colloid. (Papanicolaou, x64) Images from PIER.

Clinically significant cases of thyroid disease are often missed because we don’t
screen for thyroid disease in the U.S. That’s because the U.S. Preventive Services
Task Force (USPSTF) concluded that screening asymptomatic people with blood tests
like TSH does not ultimately improve outcomes. However, some professional groups like
the ATA (American Thyroid Association) and the ACP (American College of Physicians)
think it’s prudent to screen at-risk subgroups such as the elderly, pregnant women,
children with genetic syndromes like Down’s or Klinefelter’s, or people with a family
history of autoimmune thyroid disease (e.g. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves Disease).

Q: Should thyroid self-exams be recommended to the general population? What are the chances
that a self-exam will turn up something clinically relevant?

A: Studies have shown that in patients between the ages of 50 and 60, a physician’s clinical
neck exam had only an 8% chance of detecting a nodule. With ultrasound, detection
dramatically increases. It’s estimated that thyroid nodules are naturally occurring
in about 40% of 65-year-olds. But most of those nodules aren’t clinically relevant,
so ultrasound screening is not recommended for the general population.

The AACE (American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists) does recommend thyroid
self-exams and offers pamphlets to patients who want to check their own necks. However,
research hasn’t shown that self-exams help to find clinically significant disease
early nor improve outcomes. Still, thyroid self-exams don’t have much of a downside,
although patients and even primary care doctors sometimes feel things incorrectly,
and unnecessary evaluations to include biopsies can result. For example, neck cartilage
can be mistaken for a nodule.

Q: There seems to be some controversy regarding how to diagnose hypothyroidism. Some
say TSH is sufficient. Others also check free T3 and T4, while others may have different
ideas about TSH levels required for a diagnosis of hypothyroidism. What does the current
evidence suggest about how doctors should perform and interpret thyroid tests?

A: TSH is a great screening test for patients who have no symptoms. However, once a patient
is complaining of symptoms of hypothyroidism, then you need to get a free T4 level
along with the TSH. That will assure that you don’t miss a rare “central hypothyroidism”
where the TSH may not be reliable.

Dr. Bernet

As far as free T3 levels are concerned, they usually aren’t affected until hypothyroidism
is extremely severe, so free T3 doesn’t really have a role in the hypothyroid patient.
It’s a more relevant test for hyperthyroid patients.

As far as TSH goals are concerned, historically the normal range has been about 0.45
mIU/L or 0.5 mIU/L to 4.5 mIU/L or 5.0 mIU/L. However, the very large NHANES study
showed that actually most Americans, especially those confirmed not to have any underlying
thyroid disease, have TSH levels between 0.5 mIU/L to 2.5 mIU/L, so we began to think
of normal TSH as being in that narrower window. New research also suggests that TSH
levels rise naturally as we age, and we’ve also found that normal TSH levels may vary
slightly by race, with African-Americans having slightly lower TSH levels than Caucasians.
This can get pretty confusing. Even if we opt for the narrower window as our normal
baseline (so that asymptomatic people with TSHs above 3 are diagnosed with hypothyroidism),
an improvement in outcomes should be shown before applying this universally. .

Once a person is diagnosed with hypothyroidism, however, there is general agreement
that keeping their TSH in a narrow therapeutic window (about 0.5 mIU/L to 2.5 mIU/L
or 3.0 mIU/L) is clinically valuable.

Q: Many patients wonder if being overweight has something to do with their thyroid function.
At what point is it appropriate to test their thyroid function?

A: The vast majority of obese patients do not have a definable endocrine abnormality.
I usually check to see if the patient has any other symptoms of hypothyroidism (other
than weight gain) before I order a TSH screening test. Things like constipation or
dry skin would raise my concern for hypothyroidism, though it’s not unreasonable for
primary care physicians to order screening TSH tests on patients who are gaining weight
and specifically want their thyroid function tested.

Q: Tell me about the most popular alternative medicines for thyroid disease and the evidence,
if there is any, for their use.

A: First of all, the thyroid gland primarily makes T4, and just a little bit of T3. T3
is the active thyroid hormone that controls metabolism, etc. and is created through
peripheral conversion of T4 to T3. Levothyroxine is primarily T4, so people have been
theoretically interested in giving T3 directly as an alternative. There was a study
in 1999 that showed some potential benefits of giving a combination of T4 (Synthroid)
and T3 (Cytomel) agents. However, a 2006 meta-analysis of 11 research studies showed
that there was no evidence of benefit of combination T4 and T3 regimens.

Armour Thyroid (Forest Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ) is desiccated animal thyroid gland and
some people prefer it to synthetic thyroid hormone. However, the problem with Armour
Thyroid is that the ratio of T4 to T3 thyroid hormone it contains can vary from batch
to batch. I’ve had patients complain of palpitations and nervousness at times and
studies reveal that blood levels of T3 can fluctuate substantially with T3-containing
regimens in comparison with levels seen in patients with normal thyroid function or
taking T4 preparations.

As far as a thyroid diet is concerned, we have no evidence that any particular diet
specifically helps thyroid function. Of course, people need to consume sufficient
quantities of iodine or else goiters can result.

Q: Do you see a lot of patients who self-diagnose hypothyroidism through a Google search?

A: Yes. The symptoms of hypothyroidism are often non-specific. Weight gain and fatigue
are very prevalent in general. I often find that people are trying to get by on six
hours of sleep, eating poorly, and not exercising, and then they complain of fatigue
and weight gain and want to ascribe it to a thyroid problem. That being said, the
occasional patient does correctly self- diagnose themselves with hypothyroidism based
on information obtained on-line or in books.

Q: What is the best advice to give a patient with hypothyroidism when they complain that
their T4 agent is not making them feel fully well?

A: Again, I’d want to find out more about their sleep, diet and exercise habits. I’d
also make sure their TSH was in an optimal therapeutic range and that they were taking
their medicine at regular intervals. Calcium and iron can bind thyroid hormone in
the gut so it’s important not to take levothyroxine with vitamin supplements, and
proton-pump inhibitors can also reduce their absorption. I also like to remind patients
that it can take four to six weeks before thyroid hormone levels normalize after starting
therapy or changing a thyroid hormone dose.

Patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis need to be aware that they’re at higher risk
for other autoimmune disorders like type 1 diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or
adrenal insufficiency.

Q: When should a primary care physician refer a thyroid patient to an endocrinologist?

A: Most patients with thyroid disease can be handled very well by a primary care physician.
If the PCP notices that the blood tests are atypical and don’t fit a regular pattern,
or if a patient is refractory to treatment with thyroid function tests all over the
board, or if the PCP finds an anatomic abnormality (like an enlarged or lumpy thyroid
gland), they should refer the patient to an endocrinologist.

Q: Is there anything that you wish PCPs would do before referring patients to you?

A: It’s best to have a specific question for the endocrinologist. Also, if thyroid function
tests are mildly abnormal, you may wish to repeat them after a short interval to make
sure it’s not a lab error (or a variation due to illness) before referring the patient
to an endocrinologist.

If the patient has a couple of abnormal TSH levels and a family history of autoimmune
thyroid disease, it’d be appropriate to order an anti-thyroid antibody panel (TPOAb)
before referring the patient to the endocrinologist. We also like to see a CBC, Chem
20, and lipid panel because they all can be impacted by hypothyroidism depending on
how severe it is.

Q: How do you find the right balance between allowing the PCP to manage the patient versus
providing specialty help and input?

A: I think there should be one cook in the kitchen when you’re trying to negotiate changes
in thyroid function tests and adjust medication dosing. The endocrinologist should
communicate to the PCP what the TSH goal is and why they’re taking the therapeutic
approach they’ve chosen, and manage the patient during the period of time in which
the medication is being adjusted. Once the TSH is in a good therapeutic window, the
endocrinologist may well transfer management back to the PCP until there’s a new problem
or concern.

The information included herein should never be used as a substitute for clinical
judgment and does not represent an official position of ACP.

How to treat the thyroid gland: types of diseases and symptoms

How to treat the thyroid gland

By: Administrator | Tags: | Comments:
0 | November 23, 2020

In terms of prevalence, endocrine pathologies are in second place after diabetes. These are serious diseases that can threaten life, lead to damage to the heart. Therefore, it is important to be examined at least once a year and know how to treat the thyroid gland. Usually, with timely treatment, diseases can be cured.

Without proper functioning of the thyroid gland, the body will not properly develop and maintain itself in the future. Diseases can develop even at the time of intrauterine development and proceed up to the last stages with vague symptoms.

Diagnosis should be made from childhood. This is especially true for regions where there is an iodine deficiency. In many countries, screening of newborns for hormonal balance has become mandatory. An endocrinologist is responsible for diagnosing the thyroid gland.

In pathologies, a reduced or, conversely, increased function is observed. In the first case, hormones are produced insufficiently, in the second – in excess. Both conditions are dangerous and can lead to the development of a number of other serious diseases.

In some cases, the cause may not be in the thyroid gland itself. A secondary factor is a dysfunction of the pituitary gland due to the presence of a benign tumor in the body.

What is the thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is a small organ consisting of two lobes connected by an isthmus. It is located in the lower part of the neck in front of the trachea under the larynx.

Refers to the number of endocrine glands of internal secretion. Their main function is to produce hormones and other biological compounds necessary for normal life. Basically, these are iodine-containing substances. Without them the following processes are not possible:

• metabolism;
• cell growth and renewal;
• development of the organism as a whole;
• prevention of bone wear;
• breakdown of fats;
• protein synthesis;
• cell energy exchange.

Information on how to treat the thyroid gland at home is very important. It may become necessary if heat transfer is disturbed, there are problems with the nervous, cardiovascular or digestive system. Each of the hormones manages certain functions in the chain of biochemical processes in our body.

What Hormones Does the Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland in our body is responsible for the production of three key hormones. Namely:

1. Thyroxin is necessary for metabolic processes in the cells of all tissues and organs.
2. Calcitonin – hormonal compounds of the peptide class, without which there will be no normal calcium metabolism, bone tissue renewal and impulse conduction in muscle and nerve tissues.
3. Triiodothyronine – takes part in metabolic processes, affects the functioning of the heart and regulates body heat transfer.

Specific steps to treat the thyroid at home depend on the results of tests and ultrasound. Therapy differs depending on which of the hormones is produced in greater or lesser quantities.

Thyroid diseases and their causes

There are three main thyroid diseases of the thyroid gland. These include:

1. Thyrotoxicosis, hyperthyroidism – increased production of excess hormones, which is a pathology.
2. Hypothyroidism – insufficient functionality of the thyroid gland, when hormones are produced in insufficient quantities by the body.
3. Goiter (sometimes diffuse and endemic) – various growths in the form of nodules, an increase in the size of the organ, often leading to an excess of hormones and serious intoxication.

How to treat goiter of the thyroid gland, a person often has to learn quite unexpectedly. Often the problem is discovered quite by accident already in adulthood. And the negative impact on the body has been for many years.

Psychological and emotional overloads can lead to these diseases. Improper nutrition, poor ecology and lack of iodine also significantly affect the situation. There is also a hereditary factor.

Thyroid symptoms

Hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism and goiter have different symptoms. In the latter case, with an increase in the thyroid gland and the appearance of nodules, there may be no external manifestations at all. In later stages, sometimes there is a sensation of a lump in the throat.

It is worth paying attention and going for tests if one or more common symptoms for various pathologies are observed. It is worth contacting an endocrinologist with high blood cholesterol, muscle pain and cramps, dry skin and brittle nails, and a feeling of loss of strength. Hyperfunction symptoms are as follows:

• sudden weight loss;
• muscle fatigue;
• constant sensation of heat;
• increased blood pressure;
• irritability;
• feeling of dry mouth;
• sleep disorders;
• stool problems;
• nausea.

Lack of hormones or hypothyroidism can bring no less discomfort. This condition greatly impairs the quality of life, as it is accompanied by:

• low blood pressure;
• chills;
• allergies;
• irregular cycles in women;
• insomnia;
• general weakness;
• loss of appetite;
• decreased performance;
• skin problems;
• memory impairments.

Although the goiter does not bring such discomfort, it is still impossible to leave the problem unattended. Information on how to treat thyroid nodules can help avoid serious problems.

Diagnosis of thyroid diseases

Most often, the patient comes to a therapist or other specialist, who, after studying the clinical picture, gives appointments for further examinations. At the first stages, you need to take a blood test from a vein to determine the hormonal status. There are three of them:

• T4 – analysis for thyroxine;
• T3 – analysis for triiodothyronine;
• TSH – analysis for thyroid-stimulating hormone.

If abnormal results are found, a referral is made to an endocrinologist. He decides which diagnostic methods should be resorted to next. This can be a manual probing of the thyroid gland for the presence of nodes and an enlarged condition, as well as ultrasound.

All patients with glandular nodules undergo a needle biopsy to determine the composition of the nodule. After that, a technique is determined on how to treat thyroid goiter or hormonal imbalance.

How to treat the thyroid gland

Self-treatment for problems with the thyroid gland is strictly not recommended, as it can seriously harm your health. Many people, without preliminary tests, start taking iodized salt for years, and then it turns out that they have hyperfunction. Treatment of the thyroid gland is prescribed only on an individual basis. In this case, observation of the patient is necessary throughout the course. Four main directions for treatment are used:

• medicinal;
• radioiodine therapy;
• surgical.

Each approach has its own advantages for treating certain pathologies. Surgical – an extreme method, is used when medical treatment does not give the desired results. Necessary in the presence of tumors or excessive enlargement of the organ.

Medications help relieve symptoms in the early stages by normalizing hormones. Radioiodine therapy is considered one of the most effective methods of therapy.

How to treat goiter and thyroid nodules

If the nodules are small, there is no special treatment. The patient is registered, and the endocrinologist observes whether they increase or not.

If malignancy is suspected, radioiodine therapy or surgery may be recommended. When the nodes are larger than 3 cm, surgery will be necessary. In the presence of any formations in the thyroid gland, it is necessary to regularly observe an endocrinologist.

Even if a person is diagnosed with thyroid cancer, this is not a sentence. This oncology is considered curable and in most cases responds well to therapy. Thus, an annual visit to the endocrinologist and the immediate appeal to him in the presence of the symptoms described are important steps to maintain health.

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Photo: Sergey Fedoseev / 59.RU

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Most have heard of the thyroid gland, but many do not know or understand its functions. The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland that produces iodine-containing hormones. The hormones produced are involved in the regulation of metabolism. The gland is butterfly shaped and is located on the front of the neck. Problems with this organ can cause the development of a number of diseases, including hypertension, arrhythmias, neuroses and depression. Lack or excess of hormones provoke dermatitis, obesity and hair loss. Our colleagues from Wday.ru figured out how to check the thyroid gland at home, and the editors of the City Portals collected harmful foods and habits that disrupt the work of this small but important organ.

Going to an endocrinologist is not a routine examination, it is not necessary for everyone to visit a doctor of this specialization once a year.

— With overweight, a person can turn to an endocrinologist himself, bypassing a therapist. If everything is clear with excess weight, it can be seen, then with the thyroid gland, complaints are not very specific. If the functions of the thyroid gland are impaired, there may be weakness, drowsiness, impaired memory, attention, dry skin, swelling, sleep disturbance, palpitations, sweating, ”endocrinologist Natalya Mikhailova told 76. RU.

The doctor notes that such complaints can also occur with other problems in the body, so you should contact the therapist, he already sends to the endocrinologist, if he considers it necessary. If the standard annual examination includes an analysis for sugar, cholesterol, a general blood test, then a study for thyroid hormones is done according to indications. Although after 40 years, it is necessary to check the thyroid hormones, namely: thyroid-stimulating hormone.

It is important to check the blood for thyroid hormone when planning a pregnancy, to know that everything is in order and to properly prepare by taking a sufficient dose of iodine. It is necessary to check the hormones in case of violation of the menstrual cycle, if it is impossible to become pregnant. Such patients are usually referred to an endocrinologist by a gynecologist.

In case of dysfunction, the organ enlarges and the shape of the neck changes. Symptoms are visible to the naked eye.

In thyroid pathologies, the shape of the neck is asymmetric, transverse skin folds appear, and the skin is swollen. The contours of the thyroid gland are visible.

Only a doctor can properly feel the thyroid gland. At home, place your fingers on the surface of the neck in the region of the Adam’s apple and swallow. Normally, the palpation is painless, without hard formations or hardened areas.

When an organ is diseased, external signs often appear, but it is difficult to identify problems from them. At home, there are other ways to recognize organ diseases.

Test for iodine deficiency . With a lack of this substance, the thyroid gland increases. On the wrist, draw a 5 x 5 cm grid with iodine. If after two hours the inscription disappears, then there is a deficiency in the body.

Other methods:

• Determine the enlargement of the organ with a pencil. With hypothyroidism, hair falls out and stops growing. Place the pencil parallel to the nose and vertically to the outer corner of the eye. Normally, the edge of the eyebrow should protrude beyond the pencil.

• Take a mouthful of water. Swallow the liquid in small sips and look at this moment in the mirror. With hyperthyroidism, you will see swelling in the neck.

We remind you that no matter what the outcome of self-monitoring is, you should not self-medicate, you will receive an accurate diagnosis after examination by an endocrinologist.

The thyroid gland is called the “conductor of the body”. For its full functioning, iodine, selenium and the amino acid tyrosine are necessary – without these substances, the synthesis of hormones produced in the gland is disrupted: T3 (triiodothyronine), T4 (thyroxine), TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone).

According to nutritionist Nata Gonchar , in order to correct thyroid disorders, it is necessary to improve nutrition and exclude foods that can provoke hormonal disorders in the body. We are talking about fatty, rich broths, fatty meats and poultry (pork, lamb, duck meat). Also under the ban were sausages, sausages and sausages. Dairy products and gluten-containing products, offal and animal fats, as well as smoked meats loved by many, can provoke problems with the thyroid gland.

Those who have a problem with this organ should be careful about pasta, semolina and rice cereal, limit sauces, fast food and semi-finished products.

Vegetables and greens with a high content of oxalic acid can adversely affect the functioning of the thyroid gland: beets, celery, sorrel, spinach, rhubarb, parsley. And also – soy in any form, including products with soy protein, since soy contains phytoestrogens that disrupt the functioning of the gland.

You can’t drink tea or coffee with cakes with such problems either – these items are also on the anti-list. Do not forget about alcohol and store-bought juices: of course, they are not useful to anyone, but especially for people with thyroid problems.

— Replace purchased drinks, tea and coffee with a healthy alternative: homemade compotes, fruit drinks, freshly squeezed vegetable and fruit juices. It is also necessary to limit the use of sunflower, soybean and corn oil, replacing them with olive or flaxseed. Starchy vegetables – potatoes, corn, beets, squash and zucchini, legumes and mushrooms – are also better to eat less often, the nutritionist believes.

In hyperthyroidism , when the thyroid gland produces too many hormones, iodine is contraindicated. Therefore, foods rich in iodine should be avoided (for example, sea fish and seafood, seaweed and iodized salt). Include high-fiber foods and enough water in your diet, this will allow you to remove metabolic products from the body and muffle your appetite. It is better to eat with hyperthyroidism often and fractionally. And it is preferable to cook for a couple or in the oven.

In case of hypothyroidism (low function of the thyroid gland), it is important to eat foods rich in iodine: for example, seafood (seaweed, shrimp, mussels, crabs), sea fish (salmon, salmon, pink salmon, tuna). Increase the amount of sour-milk and whole grain cereals, fruits and berries, vegetables, herbs and walnuts in your menu.

— The thyroid gland is an important organ in the human endocrine system, which is responsible for the metabolism and synthesis of hormones in the body. Adequate nutrition, physical activity and healthy sleep will help maintain the health of the gland. A proper diet without harmful products will improve the functional state of the body, help to establish the synthesis of hormones and protect against the development of diseases of the endocrine system, says Nata Gonchar.

Our thyroid gland really doesn’t like some things, says toxicologist, Professor Mikhail Kutushov . Many of them may seem quite harmless to you. But this is only at first glance. We understand what habits can destroy the thyroid gland.

When you close, endure inconvenience, accept everything that you would like to reject, then this is the suppression of emotions. Unfulfilled plans, loss of interest in life, discrepancy between desires and opportunities – everything that you blame yourself for harms. The negative affects the nervous system, the work of organs, including the thyroid gland.

A calorie deficit and prolonged fasting destroy our body.

– Hunger lasting up to 36 hours does not have a harmful effect on this organ, if more – the thyroid gland can begin to live its own separate life, – explains Mikhail Kutushov.

It would seem that if you completely refuse food for a couple of days, you can easily and simply lose weight. But experts are categorically against such a radical approach, which, by the way, is a bad helper in losing weight. What dangerous consequences will overtake you after a while, you can read here.

More habits for which this small but important organ will not thank you, you will find in this review.

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