Thyroid & Parathyroid Disorders
Hyperthyroidism
When the thyroid produces too much hormone. Metabolism speeds up and causes a rapid or irregular heartbeat, nervousness, irritability, sweating, sensitivity to heat and weight loss. Treated medically.
Hypothyroidism
When too little hormone is produced. Causes fatigue, constipation, muscle aches and pains, facial puffiness, dry skin, sensitivity to cold and weight gain. Treatment with synthetic hormone replacement therapy is the usual course of action.
Hyperparathyroidism
when excess hormone is produced, leading to an excess of calcium in the blood.
Symptoms include osteoporosis, lack of energy, abdominal pain, kidney stones, bone and joint pain, depression, loss of concentration, nausea and vomiting.
Surgery is main treatment
hypoparathyroidism
When the parathyroid glands produce too little hormone.
Low calcium levels in the blood cause an increase in phosphorous and a tingling or burning sensation in the fingertips, toes and lips; muscle aches and cramps; fatigue; weakness; anxiety; headaches; muscle spasms in the hands, arms, throat and around the mouth; depression; mood swings and memory loss. Calcium supplements and Vitamin D are useful in treating this condition.
Thyroid Nodule
What Are Thyroid Nodules?
Thy are extremely common in both adults and children, occurring
in nearly 50% of the population
What Are The Common Causes Of Thyroid Nodules?
- Autoimmune disorders
- Iodine deficiency
- Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid)
- Pregnancy
- Thyroid cancer
What Are Some Usual Thyroid Nodules Symptoms?
sometimes those with thyroid nodules experience one
or more of the following symptoms:
- Chronic sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Sudden, unexplained weight change
- Nervousness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Trouble sleeping
- Tremors
- Visible neck swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Hoarseness or voice changes
Who Is At Risk?
Family history of thyroid conditions (e.g. hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, nodules) have a higher likelihood of developing thyroid nodules.
Commonly experienced by women than men.
Small portion of patients who have cancerous nodules tend to be male.
How Are Thyroid Nodules Diagnosed?
- Thyroid ultrasound – provides images of the nodule
- Blood tests – checks the levels of thyroid hormones
- Thyroid scan – measures the temperature of the nodule
- Fine needle aspiration – evaluates the nodule to rule
out cancer
Treatment medication or surgery.
Depends on diagnosis