The thyroid is a gland that is a part of the complex endocrine system, and it is located at the base of the neck. As part of the endocrine system, the thyroid helps to coordinate many of the activities and functions within the human body.
It is not uncommon for people throughout Los Angeles County to suffer from thyroid disorders. There are various types of thyroid disorders that San Dimas patients may be afflicted with, and these are some of the most common thyroid disorders that are found in patients today.
What are Some of the Most Common Thyroid Disorders?
Hashimoto's Disease
Hashimoto’s Disease is one of the most common thyroid disorders, and it is typically responsible for the onset of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid is underactive, and its symptoms are typically mild. Some common symptoms are fatigue, constipation, mild weight gain, and depression.
The difficult part about identifying symptoms of Hashimoto’s Disease is the fact that these symptoms are fairly general and often mild. Many people mistake them for other issues going on their life, such as stress or another virus. However, if the symptoms persist, patients should make it a point to contact their physician in order to see if Hashimoto’s Disease may be the issue.
Hormone treatment is typically used to combat the symptoms, as there is no cure currently for Hashimoto’s Disease. In some cases, surgery may be necessary if the thyroid has become enlarged. This is rare though because the disease progresses slowly and is monitored for years.
Graves' Disease
Conversely, Graves’ Disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too many hormones. Symptoms include insomnia, anxiety, diarrhea, interrupted menstrual cycle, and irregular heartbeats.
Similarly to Hashimoto’s Disease, Graves’ Disease symptoms are mild and might be confused with another issue that the patient is experiencing at the same. People who are experiencing insomnia and anxiety, for example, don’t often immediately think that their thyroid is to blame. If symptoms are constant and do not let up, patients should discuss them with their doctor.
Anti-thyroid drugs and radioactive iodine can be used to help the patient combat the symptoms, but there is no cure for the disease. In some cases, surgery is necessary if the patient does not tolerate the medication well. If surgery is necessary, the whole thyroid gland will be removed.
Patients who suspect that they have a thyroid disorder should start by contacting their general physician and discussing their symptoms. After performing an examination and talking with the patient about the symptoms that he or she is experiencing, the physician will decide if a specialist is necessary.
In many cases, patients with thyroid disorders are treated by a general surgeon. In some cases, surgery may be required in order to treat the issues with the thyroid gland. In other situations, different treatment options can be pursued, depending on the patient’s individual health issues.
