Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of your neck. Although it’s small, it produces essential hormones that regulate bodily functions from your heart rate to your metabolism.
A healthy thyroid keeps your thyroid hormones balanced. However, an estimated 20 million Americans have thyroid disease, which is a group of conditions that occur when your thyroid makes too much or too little of certain hormones.
The two most common types of thyroid disease are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, and both can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, and more. The good news is that you don’t have to accept the symptoms as part of your life.
At Endocrine Associates of West Village, our team specializes in treating thyroid disorders. Whether you have hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, we’re here to help you learn more about your care options.
Hypothyroidism is the most common type of thyroid disorder. It’s also called underactive thyroid because it happens when your thyroid doesn’t make enough hormones. If you have hypothyroidism, you may develop a hormone deficiency, with symptoms that worsen over time.
Common symptoms of hypothyroidism are:
The symptoms of hypothyroidism can vary, depending on the severity of your hormone deficiency.
Anyone can develop hypothyroidism, but certain factors may increase your risk. It’s most common in women over the age of 60. Sometimes, it develops during or after pregnancy. A family history of hypothyroidism may also increase your risk of developing it.
Hyperthyroidism is the opposite of hypothyroidism in many ways. Also called overactive thyroid, it occurs when your thyroid makes too much of certain hormones.
The symptoms of hyperthyroidism can include:
Like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism is more common in women than men. A family history of hyperthyroidism also increases your risk of the condition.
Up to 60% of people with a thyroid disorder may not even know they have it, so it’s important to learn the warning signs. If any of the above symptoms sound familiar, schedule an appointment at Endocrine Associates of West Village.
Our team diagnoses your condition with a comprehensive exam and blood work to identify any hormonal imbalances. We review your symptoms and your medical history to determine a treatment plan that fits your needs.
If you have hypothyroidism, we typically treat it with medication to increase thyroid hormone levels. You may need to take the medication for the rest of your life, but it’s very effective in improving symptoms.
If you have hyperthyroidism, you may need to take antithyroid medication or radioactive iodine to reduce the amount of hormones your thyroid creates.
Don’t let your thyroid disorder go undiagnosed and untreated. Uncover the cause of your symptoms and get started on a treatment plan at Endocrine Associates of West Village. Call our team or request your first appointment online now.
