Thyroid Imbalances
-
- Tweet
Pompeyo C Chavez, MD
Family Practice Personalized Care MDVIP at Premier Family Physicians serving Bastrop, Austin, TX, and the surrounding areas
According to the American Thyroid Association, more than 12% of Americans will develop a thyroid problem at some point in their lives. Serving Bastrop, Austin, TX, and the surrounding areas, Pompeyo Chavez, MD, offers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services. If you’re concerned about thyroid imbalances, schedule a visit with Dr. Chavez today, by setting up an appointment online or calling the office directly.
Thyroid Imbalances Q & A
What is the thyroid?
Your thyroid is a gland that manufactures hormones that regulate your metabolism, which is the rate at which your body converts food and oxygen into energy. Your thyroid gland sits at the front of your throat, just below your Adam’s apple. It’s shaped like a butterfly and has two distinct lobes connected by a central isthmus.
Your thyroid uses iodine to manufacture hormones and is controlled by a feedback connection with your brain. The primary hormone your thyroid produces is known as T4 or thyroid hormone.
What are some common thyroid imbalances and disorders?
Anything that negatively impacts your pituitary gland, hypothalamus, or thyroid can lead to a serious thyroid disorder. Some of the potential problems include:
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
- Thyroid nodules
- Goiter
- Thyroid cancer
Understanding the symptoms of thyroid issues can help you know when to seek treatment.
What’s the difference between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism occurs when your body creates too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Tremor
- Nervousness
- Heat intolerance
- Fast heart rate
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sweating
Because these symptoms can indicate so many health issues, seeking a diagnosis is critical to your health.
Hypothyroidism occurs when your body doesn’t create enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Muscle and joint ache
- Depression
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Cognitive difficulties
- Feeling cold all the time
Here again, these symptoms are also linked to various other health problems, making it essential to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
How are thyroid imbalances treated?
Dr. Chavez begins with a full assessment of your thyroid function. All related hormones are measured to gain deeper insight into your thyroid health.
If there are signs of a thyroid imbalance, Dr. Chavez creates a customized treatment plan for your specific set of needs. While the conventional medicine approach is to treat thyroid imbalances with drug therapy, Dr. Chavez also focuses on enhancing overall health to restore optimal thyroid function.
Your treatment path might consist of a blend of medication, stress management, nutritional support, supplements, and dietary improvements. Taking steps to reduce widespread inflammation can also lead to a marked improvement in thyroid function.
To receive a thorough evaluation of thyroid imbalances and a customized treatment plan, schedule a visit with Dr. Chavez at Pompeyo C Chavez, MD today, by phone or online.
