When Things Get Off Balance
When your thyroid doesn’t work quite right, it can lead to a variety of issues that can seriously impact your well-being. At Well Endocrinology, we’re here to help you understand and manage any thyroid concerns with our personalized concierge care services.
Let’s Talk Thyroid
There are several types of thyroid problems, each with its own set of symptoms and causes. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Hypothyroidism: Your thyroid isn’t making enough hormones, leading to fatigue, weight gain, difficulty concentrating, and feeling cold all the time.
- Hyperthyroidism: Your thyroid is making too much of a good thing, causing anxiety, weight loss, heart palpitations, and trouble sleeping.
- Thyroid Nodules: These are lumps that form in the thyroid, and while most are harmless, some require further evaluation.
- Thyroid Cancer: Though less common, thyroid cancer is highly treatable when diagnosed early.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The symptoms of thyroid disorders can vary depending on the specific condition, but here’s a general idea:
- Hypothyroidism: Feeling tired all the time, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, feeling cold, irregular periods, and even depression.
- Hyperthyroidism: Weight loss, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, tremors, diarrhea, feeling hot, difficulty sleeping, and frequent bathroom trips.
To figure out what’s going on, your doctor might use a combination of:
- Blood tests: These check the levels of thyroid hormones in your bloodstream.
- Imaging studies: Like an ultrasound, to see if your thyroid looks normal.
- Thyroid scan: This uses radioactive iodine to assess how well your thyroid is working.
Treatment and Taking Charge
The goal is to get your thyroid hormones back in balance, ease your symptoms, and prevent complications. Here’s what you might need:
- Medication: This is the main treatment for hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
- If you’ve had surgery or radioactive iodine treatment, you might need ongoing hormone replacement to keep things running smoothly.
- Ultrasound monitoring: Sometimes, you will need serial ultrasounds to monitor thyroid nodules.
- Thyroid biopsy: For nodules that meet the American Thyroid Association criteria, we will recommend a biopsy to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
- Thyroid Surgery: In some cases, removing part or all of your thyroid gland might be necessary.
Living Well with a Thyroid Condition
Lifestyle changes can also play a big role in managing your thyroid health:
- Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, veggies, and whole grains helps support your overall health and thyroid function.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can boost your energy levels, mood, and overall well-being.
- Stress Management: Chronic stress can worsen thyroid symptoms. Techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help manage stress and promote overall health.
Why Choose Well Endocrinology?
- Triple-Board Certified Expertise: Dr. Sobia Sadiq, our leader, has extensive experience in all things thyroid. You’re in the best hands.
- Comprehensive Care: We listen to your concerns and use evidence-based science to create a personalized plan that’s right for you. No gimmicks or non-FDA-approved stuff here.
- Direct Access: Get quick answers and personalized care through text, email, or phone calls.
- Convenient Telehealth Appointments: Skip the wait times and chat with Dr. Sadiq from the comfort of your home.
- Empowerment to Wellness: We stay up-to-date on the latest advancements and provide a holistic approach to optimize your health. Plus, every patient gets Dr. Sadiq’s “Journey to Wellness” guide for extra support.