Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the body lacks sufficient thyroid hormone. Since the main purpose of thyroid hormone is to “run the body’s metabolism,” it is understandable that people with this condition will have symptoms associated with a slow metabolism. The estimates vary, but approximately 10 million Americans have this common medical condition. In fact, as many as 10% of women may have some degree of thyroid hormone deficiency. Hypothyroidism is more common than you would believe, and millions of people are currently hypothyroid and don’t know it.
Thyroid/Parathyroid Disorders
Thyroid gland is located in the front center of neck around the notch/Adams apple and makes hormones that help set your metabolism. If your thyroid becomes imbalanced due to one of several possible reasons, health issues can arise. The parathyroid glands are small (pea-size) glands that are located on the thyroid gland. The parathyroid gland makes a hormone which helps your body keep the right balance of calcium and phosphorous. Issues arise if the balance is disrupted. We specialize in disorders of the thyroid gland including:
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- Goiter (enlarged thyroid)
- Thyroid nodules (lumps within the thyroid)
- Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid)
- Thyroid cancers
Symptoms
Patients with thyroid disorders frequently experience problems with
- Energy levels, feeling fatigue
- Weight control
- Heat or cold intolerance
- Muscle strength
- Emotions
Treatment
We use multiple tools including in the office thyroid ultrasound, fine needle aspiration biopsy of Nodules (if needed) and extensive patient education in addition to medication.
Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy of the Thyroid
The thyroid is a gland located in the neck. Thyroid Nodule/Growth on the thyroid or Lumps are not uncommon, Most of the nodules are benign, in order to make the determination if nodule is benign, a sample of cells from the thyroid Nodule is needed. If a sample is needed, a fine needle biopsy can be performed.
During this procedure, a fine needle is inserted into the thyroid gland Nodule, and a sample of thyroid cells is drawn into the needle. The needle is then withdrawn and the cells are sent for examination. This test is usually performed in the office under ultrasound guidance by our physician. This will allow us to diagnose thyroid disease or thyroid cancer; the results usually take about 3 business days to return. We will call you personally with the results.