What’s Your Thyroid IQ?

For being such a small gland, the thyroid packs a big punch. Located at the base of the neck, the thyroid function affects the kidneys, liver, skin, brain, and heart. Needless to say, if the thyroid isn’t functioning at 100%, it can wreak major havoc in the body. Unfortunately, thyroid conditions are all-too prevalent, with 20-30 million Americans experiencing a thyroid-related issue. And according to the American Thyroid Association, 12% of Americans will develop a thyroid issue in their lifetime.

When most people think of thyroid disease, the most commonly considered form is hypothyroidism and/or Hashimoto’s disease, which is an under-performing thyroid. However, there are other thyroid issues to consider, and they include hyperthyroidism and/or Grave’s disease, goiter, and thyroid nodules.

While medical testing and a diagnosis issued by a doctor is the only surefire way to know for certain whether you have a thyroid disorder, here are a few symptoms and warning signs for the various kinds of thyroid disease.

Hypothyroidism/Hashimoto’s disease

This medical condition can persist for years and not be detected, as the body works to compensate for a failing thyroid. However, people with an under-performing thyroid may notice a painless swelling in the lower front of the neck, dry and brittle hair and nails, swollen or puffy face, unexplained weight gain, heavy/irregular menstrual flow, cognitive difficulties, and sore muscles.
Hyperthyroidism/Grave’s disease

Symptoms of having an over-active thyroid can include rapid heartrate, increased sensitivity to heat, trembling hands, unexplained weight loss, increased likelihood of miscarriage, vision problems or protrusion of the eyes, hair loss, and being argumentative or irritable.
Thyroid nodules

These nodules can often go unnoticed, but cause symptoms nonetheless. Those with thyroid nodules may notice an unexplained hoarseness, neck pressure or discomfort, difficulty swelling, a lump or goiter in the neck, or an unexplained cough.
Goiter

This is the thyroid disorder with perhaps the most poignantly noticeable symptoms. Those with a goiter will notice a swelling or lump at the base of the front of the neck, a change in the sound of the voice, a feeling of pressure in the neck or trouble breathing or swallowing.

If you believe you may have an issue with your thyroid, even if you’re uncertain, be sure to come in to Fountain Hills Medical Center for a consultation. Under the care of our medical team you’ll be given an exam and most likely a blood test. If it is determined that you do indeed have thyroid disease, our team will discuss with you your treatment options. Treatment can include medication and monitoring, and in some cases, surgery. There are other lifestyle changes as well such as with diet, exercise, and supplements, that can also greatly improve your quality of life with this lifelong medical condition.

Our medical team here in your Fountain Hills community is ready to help you through your thyroid disease symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. We know that getting any kind of medical diagnosis can be stressful and upsetting, and we’re here with support and care as well as medical advice. For thyroid care in Fountain Hills, our expert medical team can help with every stage of your journey.

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