Thyroid Specialist in Seattle WA

Functional Problems of the Thyroid Gland

The butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck, wrapped around the windpipe, produces, stores, and releases hormones that regulate a wide range of crucial bodily functions. Known as the thyroid gland, it plays a very crucial role in a human body, hence, it is very essential to ensure its proper and efficient functioning.

The pituitary gland located at the base of the brain produces thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which causes the thyroid gland to produce the two vital hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which influence every cell in the body. Our thyroid specialists in Seattle help patients understand the importance of managing their thyroid hormone and suggest effective measures to do so.

Problems related to the thyroid gland can occur at any stage in life, and is mainly classified into the function of the thyroid gland and the structure of the thyroid gland. The functional problem of the thyroid gland involves it being either overactive or underactive and the structural problem involves changes in size or the development of nodules.

Hypothyroidism

Thyroid specialists encounter hypothyroidism as one of the more common conditions among the patients. This condition occurs as a result of iodine deficiency, an autoimmune disorder, where the body attacks the thyroid gland as if it were a foreign tissue. Typical symptoms related to too little thyroid hormone are abnormal weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, intolerance to cold, constipation, and a slow heart rate. Though this condition can be developed by a person of any age, it most commonly affects women, especially older females.

Hyperthyroidism

When the thyroid gland is overactive, it leads to a condition known as hyperthyroidism, which increases the person’s metabolic rate. This condition occurs as a result of overproduction of T3 and T4, which causes the body to produce antibodies that stimulate the thyroid to secrete excessive quantities of thyroid hormones. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include heart palpitations, excessive sweating, weight loss, muscle weakness, and a heightened sensitivity to heat.

Our thyroid specialists consider various factors like the age, health, weight, and hormone levels of the patients before administering any kind of medications or treatments. Different thyroid hormone medicines contain different doses, hence, it is important that patients stick to their particular dosage and brand. You need to follow a regular schedule of taking your medications and ensure you do not skip any doses.

If you are on medication for any other conditions, our thyroid specialists will help you understand what effect the different drugs can have on your thyroid treatment. While the irregularity with your thyroid hormone can cause many unpleasant side effects, keeping up with your treatment and following your doctor’s instructions will ensure that you successfully control your hormone levels.