What is the thyroid?
Your thyroid is an endocrine gland located in your neck. It produces and secretes thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are the hormones that control many functions, including:
- Heart rate
- Body temperature
- Metabolism (calorie-burning rate)
- Mood
A thyroid disease may cause your thyroid to increase or decrease production of these hormones, which may affect normal body function and cause various symptoms that interfere with your quality of life.
What is thyroid disease?
Thyroid disease is a general term that includes a number of conditions that affect the health and function of the thyroid.
Common types of thyroid disease include:
Goiter
A goiter refers to an enlarged thyroid gland. A low intake of iodine may lead to the development of a goiter. However, underproduction or overproduction of thyroid hormones may also result in a goiter.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism means your thyroid isn’t producing enough thyroid hormones. There are many thyroid diseases and conditions that cause hypothyroidism, including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, exposure to too much iodine, or removal of the thyroid gland.
Weight gain, fatigue, and depression are common symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism includes thyroid diseases that cause your thyroid gland to produce an overabundance of thyroid hormones. Types of hyperthyroidism include Grave’s disease and pituitary diseases that affect normal thyroid function.
Unexpected weight loss, anxiety, and rapid heartbeat are some common symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
What happens during a thyroid disease consultation?
When you come to Abington Endocrinology for management of your thyroid disease, you can expect a comprehensive and patient-centered exam.
Dr. Weiss understands how thyroid disease affects your health and takes the time needed to gather as much information as possible so he can develop a plan to help you manage your condition.
During your consultation, he asks detailed questions about your symptoms, medical and family history, and the types of medications and supplements you take. He then performs a physical exam and may conduct an in-office ultrasound to evaluate your thyroid.
Blood work to assess thyroid hormone levels may also be requested.
How is thyroid disease treated?
Dr. Weiss has extensive experience with all types of thyroid problems and develops a personalized treatment plan that gets you the best results. The specifics of your treatment depend on the type of thyroid disease you have and your symptoms.
Treatment may include:
- Hormone replacement therapy for hypothyroidism
- Medication to reduce hormone production for hyperthyroidism
- Surgery to address the underlying issue causing the hormone changes
He schedules regular follow-up visits to monitor your thyroid problem and adjust your treatment as needed.
For expert care for your thyroid disease, call Abington Endocrinology or book an appointment online today.
