How to Treat a Thyroid Disorder
Your thyroid makes the chemicals that run your metabolism, the complex system of tissue and organ functions that control growth and development. Too little of these thyroid hormones produce a condition called hypothyroidism and too much, hyperthyroidism. These disorders in tum produce a number of symptoms that can affect how we feel and function. Left untreated, these conditions can affect basic health and behavior and, in some cases, become life-threatening. A number of treatments have been developed for each condition and have been used successfully in many cases.
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Instructions
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See your doctor if you are experiencing a swelling in the neck, called "goiter". This is the most obvious case of hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid. Other symptoms include loss of weight, nervousness, rapid heart rate and palpitations and heat intolerance and excessive sweating. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, loss of physical and intellectual vitality, slow pulse, intolerance to cold and loss of hair. Do not self-diagnose if you notice these symptoms. See your doctor and have her run an endocrine panel, a simple blood test that will measure how well your thyroid is functioning and your metabolism is working.
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If you are a middle-aged woman, you are part of the group most likely to be affected by hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism has been linked to Graves Disease, an immune system disorder and adenoma (lumps that form goiter). Other cases have unknown causes. An overactive thyroid can be treated with anti-thyroid drugs that control the production of thyroid hormones, radioiodine, which destroys part of the overactive gland or surgery, to remove part of it. All are effective. You and your doctor should decide which treatment is right for you.
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Hypothyroidism affects all age groups and both sexes. People with underactive thyroids generally receive a synthetic hormone that replaces the hormone that the thyroid should be producing. Your doctor will decide how long you should take this hormone to "get you back on track", based on blood tests and his evaluation. You will probably need to be tested on a regular basis to make sure that your metabolism is functioning properly.
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Both types of thyroid disorder can be easily treated, but you must follow your doctor's instructions absolutely in order to regain your metabolic balance. Take medications as directed at the same time each day and call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose. Keep your medication with you and do not take certain medications, including antacids and some cholesterol medications, within several hours of your thyroid medication.
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Monitoring a thyroid condition is simple. Follow directions for periodic blood tests and discuss any questions or concerns promptly with your doctor. In these days of clinic-based care and large practices, be sure that all of your health care providers are aware of your history with a thyroid disorder.
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Tips & Warnings
Ignoring thyroid disorder can lead to very serious consequences for your body. Get diagnosed and follow your doctor's directions exactly.
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- Photo Credit DRW & Associates, Inc
