Time for Thyroid Care: NYU Doctor shares signs that tell you to get your thyroid checked
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before making any changes to your health regimen.
As we age, it’s important that we keep our health in check. More than just regular exercise and a proper diet, it’s important to regularly consult with our doctors concerning different parts of our body.
In the United States, over 12% of Americans are at risk for developing a thyroid condition, with women experiencing a higher risk than men. So, how can you protect yourself from thyroid conditions?
Dr. Kepal Patel, Co-Director of the Thyroid Program at NYU Langone Health and Chief of Endocrine Surgery, gave a rundown of important thyroid information, symptoms to watch out for, and common treatments.
What is the thyroid gland? How does it work?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped organ located in the front of our necks. It’s part of the endocrine system, which means that it produces hormones that regulate metabolism, encourage brain development, and stimulate growth.
Since the hormones work with almost every organ, they also impact heart rate, body temperature and digestion.
So, if our thyroid isn’t okay, then our body won’t feel alright either.
How do I know if I should get my thyroid checked?
Thyroid disease comes in several types, each of them with varying symptoms. Although, if you experience any of the following, it’s a good sign to get your thyroid checked:
It can also come from illnesses like Hashimoto’s disease, which is a chronic autoimmune disorder that is commonly seen in areas where iodized salt or iodine-rich foods are easily available. Not getting enough iodine can also lead to hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism affects all ages, given that congenital hypothyroidism exists. This condition is when babies are born with a missing or underactive thyroid.
Meanwhile, hyperthyroidism is the state of having an overactive thyroid. This condition may cause anxiety, weight loss, a rapid heartbeat, and feeling too hot.
Hyperthyroidism is also usually linked to Graves’ disease, which is a condition that causes too much stimulation to the thyroid. Having excess iodine or abnormal lumps in the thyroid can also lead to more hormone production, causing hyperthyroidism.
So, when should I see a doctor?
If you’re starting to feel different than usual, a simple check-up and blood test can check the hormone levels of your thyroid to see if it’s causing any problems.
Aside from this, if primary care treatment isn’t working, or there are noticeable appearances on your neck, you can also consider this as a sign to see your doctor. Doctors who specialize in treating thyroid conditions are called endocrinologists.
Remember to also take note of your family’s medical history, as thyroid conditions commonly run in the family.
Should I be worried about the lump in my neck?
According to Dr. Patel, lumps in the neck are “fairly common and usually not life-threatening.” It is usually caused by swollen lymph nodes that we get from colds or strep throat.
If you are also prone to allergies or post-nasal drip, the lymph nodes can experience swelling as well. There are also other possible causes like thyroid nodules, cysts, or non-cancerous tumors.
Usually, these benign lumps go away on their own. But if a lump isn’t going away, you should consult your doctor. The doctor might request for a neck ultrasound, and a biopsy if needed, to find out the cause.
When should I get the lumps in my neck checked?
Dr. Patel says to watch out for lumps that “seem to be growing, are firm or feel hard.” In that case, a specialist should be consulted, and the needed physical exams or thyroid ultrasound must be conducted.
If a lump doesn’t go away on its own after two weeks, and you aren’t experiencing an infection you should go and seek medical attention.
How do I get a proper diagnosis?
Thyroid disease, like any other condition, is diagnosed by conducting a thorough medical history and physical exam. The doctor usually feels your thyroid area to check for any unusual concerns, like lumps.
Then, a blood test measures the hormone levels in the thyroid. If there are any abnormal results, concerning lumps, or pain, then a neck ultrasound may be requested.
Dr. Patel’s team also uses radioactive iodine scans to differentiate between various types of nodules and abnormalities in thyroid function. Finally, a biopsy is only necessary in cases of suspicious lumps or nodules. This procedure is used to evaluate whether there are cancerous or abnormal cells.
What’s the available treatment?
Thyroid treatment would depend on the present condition and underlying cause. But the main goal of every treatment is to bring the thyroid hormones to a healthy level.
For hyperthyroidism, there is the option to take medication that decreases thyroid hormone production, radioiodine therapy to destroy thyroid cells, or surgery to remove the thyroid gland. However, the last two options require taking a thyroid hormone replacement for life.
On the other hand, hypothyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone replacement. At NYU Langone’s Thyroid Program, they offer several treatments catered to a patient’s needs.
Remember, eating the right food like fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and proper iodine sources go a long way. Exercise and managing stress can also help. Reducing exposure to harmful chemicals like smoking or alcohol can also boost your thyroid health.
Can you share your best thyroid care tips? Are you going to make a change in your routine to help with your thyroid health? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!
As we age, it’s important that we keep our health in check. More than just regular exercise and a proper diet, it’s important to regularly consult with our doctors concerning different parts of our body.
In the United States, over 12% of Americans are at risk for developing a thyroid condition, with women experiencing a higher risk than men. So, how can you protect yourself from thyroid conditions?
Dr. Kepal Patel, Co-Director of the Thyroid Program at NYU Langone Health and Chief of Endocrine Surgery, gave a rundown of important thyroid information, symptoms to watch out for, and common treatments.
The thyroid is such a vital part of our body–it affects almost everything and is needed for proper functioning. Image source: Pexels.
What is the thyroid gland? How does it work?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped organ located in the front of our necks. It’s part of the endocrine system, which means that it produces hormones that regulate metabolism, encourage brain development, and stimulate growth.
Since the hormones work with almost every organ, they also impact heart rate, body temperature and digestion.
So, if our thyroid isn’t okay, then our body won’t feel alright either.
How do I know if I should get my thyroid checked?
Thyroid disease comes in several types, each of them with varying symptoms. Although, if you experience any of the following, it’s a good sign to get your thyroid checked:
- a slow or rapid heart rate
- sudden and unexplainable weight changes
- sensitivity to cold or heat
- depression or anxiety
- constant fatigue
- abnormal lumps in the thyroid
It can also come from illnesses like Hashimoto’s disease, which is a chronic autoimmune disorder that is commonly seen in areas where iodized salt or iodine-rich foods are easily available. Not getting enough iodine can also lead to hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism affects all ages, given that congenital hypothyroidism exists. This condition is when babies are born with a missing or underactive thyroid.
Meanwhile, hyperthyroidism is the state of having an overactive thyroid. This condition may cause anxiety, weight loss, a rapid heartbeat, and feeling too hot.
Hyperthyroidism is also usually linked to Graves’ disease, which is a condition that causes too much stimulation to the thyroid. Having excess iodine or abnormal lumps in the thyroid can also lead to more hormone production, causing hyperthyroidism.
So, when should I see a doctor?
If you’re starting to feel different than usual, a simple check-up and blood test can check the hormone levels of your thyroid to see if it’s causing any problems.
Aside from this, if primary care treatment isn’t working, or there are noticeable appearances on your neck, you can also consider this as a sign to see your doctor. Doctors who specialize in treating thyroid conditions are called endocrinologists.
Remember to also take note of your family’s medical history, as thyroid conditions commonly run in the family.
Since thyroid symptoms are not easily noticeable, there are usually delays in diagnosis. Image source: Pexels.
Should I be worried about the lump in my neck?
According to Dr. Patel, lumps in the neck are “fairly common and usually not life-threatening.” It is usually caused by swollen lymph nodes that we get from colds or strep throat.
If you are also prone to allergies or post-nasal drip, the lymph nodes can experience swelling as well. There are also other possible causes like thyroid nodules, cysts, or non-cancerous tumors.
Usually, these benign lumps go away on their own. But if a lump isn’t going away, you should consult your doctor. The doctor might request for a neck ultrasound, and a biopsy if needed, to find out the cause.
When should I get the lumps in my neck checked?
Dr. Patel says to watch out for lumps that “seem to be growing, are firm or feel hard.” In that case, a specialist should be consulted, and the needed physical exams or thyroid ultrasound must be conducted.
If a lump doesn’t go away on its own after two weeks, and you aren’t experiencing an infection you should go and seek medical attention.
How do I get a proper diagnosis?
Thyroid disease, like any other condition, is diagnosed by conducting a thorough medical history and physical exam. The doctor usually feels your thyroid area to check for any unusual concerns, like lumps.
Then, a blood test measures the hormone levels in the thyroid. If there are any abnormal results, concerning lumps, or pain, then a neck ultrasound may be requested.
Dr. Patel’s team also uses radioactive iodine scans to differentiate between various types of nodules and abnormalities in thyroid function. Finally, a biopsy is only necessary in cases of suspicious lumps or nodules. This procedure is used to evaluate whether there are cancerous or abnormal cells.
What’s the available treatment?
Thyroid treatment would depend on the present condition and underlying cause. But the main goal of every treatment is to bring the thyroid hormones to a healthy level.
For hyperthyroidism, there is the option to take medication that decreases thyroid hormone production, radioiodine therapy to destroy thyroid cells, or surgery to remove the thyroid gland. However, the last two options require taking a thyroid hormone replacement for life.
On the other hand, hypothyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone replacement. At NYU Langone’s Thyroid Program, they offer several treatments catered to a patient’s needs.
Remember, eating the right food like fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and proper iodine sources go a long way. Exercise and managing stress can also help. Reducing exposure to harmful chemicals like smoking or alcohol can also boost your thyroid health.
Can you share your best thyroid care tips? Are you going to make a change in your routine to help with your thyroid health? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!
