Thyroid Disease and Treatment: A Primer

The thyroid gland, located in the lower front of your neck, is essential for regulating your body’s metabolism, energy production, and temperature. When the thyroid produces too little or too much hormone, it can lead to conditions that can radically affect your overall health.

AFC Urgent Care Malden is here to help you understand thyroid disease, recognize the symptoms, access timely testing, and receive the personalized care you need to manage your condition effectively.  It’s Thyroid Awareness Month! This primer is the start of taking control of your thyroid health. 

What Is Thyroid Disease?

To understand the causes of thyroid disease, let’s look at the anatomy and physiology of the thyroid gland. This butterfly-shaped gland is located at the lower front of the neck just below your Adam’s apple. It’s an endocrine gland which produces the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3); they help regulate metabolism, heart rate, brain function, body temperature, and more. This gland is controlled via the hypothalamus and pituitary glands. When the thyroid gland is out of balance, producing more or less thyroid than needed, a thyroid condition is likely to occur.

The imbalance can lead to two primary conditions:

Hypothyroidism: Often caused by Hashimoto’s Disease, this underactive thyroid condition slows metabolic processes, causing symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and cold hands and feet.

Hyperthyroidism: Frequently linked to Graves’ Disease, this overactive thyroid condition speeds up metabolism, leading to common symptoms such as weight loss, anxiety, and rapid heartbeat.

Additional thyroid-related issues include nodules, which are lumps that can develop in the thyroid gland and may be benign or cancerous, thyroiditis, which is inflammation that can cause swelling and hormonal imbalances, and thyroid cancer, a rare condition that requires careful evaluation and treatment.

Warning Signs of Thyroid Disease

Some of the most common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, sensitivity to heat, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can be caused by many different factors, so if you experience them, you shouldn’t automatically assume you have a thyroid condition.

That said, if you do experience any of the following symptoms, you should certainly visit your doctor to clarify whether you do indeed have a thyroid condition:

Warning signs include:

• Persistent fatigue
• Weight gain or unexplained weight loss
• Dry skin and brittle or coarse hair
• Cold sensitivity or feeling hot
• Muscle weakness and tremors
• Depression or brain fog
• Nervousness or irritability
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Difficulty sleeping

In Malden, the seasonal weather changes can amplify symptoms like heat or cold sensitivity, so timely thyroid evaluations are crucial for effective management.

Diagnosing Thyroid Disease

At AFC Urgent Care Malden, we offer comprehensive diagnostic services to evaluate thyroid function. Blood tests measure levels of T3, T4, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), providing critical insights into thyroid health. Providers may also perform a physical exam to detect swelling or nodules and review your medical history to identify potential risk factors or rule out other conditions.  Testing is essential to determine your thyroid condition accurately, and early detection leads to better management and outcomes.

Life with Thyroid Disease

Treatment for thyroid disease depends on the specific condition and its severity. Generally speaking, managing thyroid disease is not overly complicated. It may involve:

Medication: Hormone replacement therapy may be indicated.

Lifestyle Changes: Stress management, regular exercise, and dietary adjustments can support good thyroid health.

Advanced Treatments: Severe cases may require radioactive iodine therapy or surgery to address underlying issues.

Together with your healthcare provider, you can develop a care plan that supports your thyroid health and empowers you to feel your best.

Why Choose AFC Urgent Care Malden for Thyroid Care?

The only way to know for sure if you have a thyroid condition or disease is to get tested. At AFC Urgent Care Malden we're ready to help you.

• Walk in 7 days a week, 8am-8pm weekdays, 8am-5pm weekends, or reserve your spot online.
• Access fast, accurate testing with on-site labs.
• Receive compassionate care from experienced providers who understand the health needs of the Malden community.

Take charge of your thyroid health with our expert diagnostic services and personalized care. Why wait to start feeling better?

FAQ: Thyroid Health

Q: What does the thyroid gland do?

A: The thyroid produces hormones (T3 and T4) that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and body temperature.

Q: What causes thyroid disease?

A: Autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s Disease and Graves’ Disease, iodine imbalances, and thyroid nodules or inflammation are common causes of thyroid disease.

Q: How is thyroid disease diagnosed?

A: Diagnosis involves blood tests to measure hormone levels, a physical exam to check for abnormalities, and a review of your medical history.

Q: Can thyroid disease be treated?

A: Yes, treatment options for thyroid disease include medications, lifestyle changes, and, in some more severe cases, surgery or radioactive iodine therapy.

Q: Why is thyroid care especially important in Malden?

A: Seasonal weather changes in Malden can intensify symptoms like heat or cold sensitivity, making timely thyroid evaluations and treatment essential for maintaining your health.