Thyroid disease is an often overlooked yet very common condition that can have a huge impact on your overall health and wellbeing. It can cause a range of symptoms, and potential health issues. Afterall, this small butterfly shaped gland controls more bodily processes than you think!

It's important to be aware of the causes, symptoms, and treatments of thyroid disease, so you can catch it early and get the treatment you need to stay healthy. 

AFC Urgent Care New Bedford is here to help you recognize the warning signs to ensure you stay in the know and keep your health in check.

What causes Thyroid disease?

Thyroid disease occurs when there is an imbalance of the two main hormones the Thyroid produces : triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). If the gland produces too much, then, we’re looking at hyperthyroidism. If the gland under produces, then, we’re looking at Hypothyroidism. Other Thyroid Diseases, include: 

• Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
• Thyroid cancer
• Thyroid tumors

Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism are the two common categories when dealing with Thyroid disease.

Hypothyroidism:

With hypothyroidism your thyroid gland can’t make enough hormones to function well.. In hypothyroidism, the gland’s hormone production slows. This, in turn, slows your metabolism, which can lead to weight gain and other symptoms. 

Hyperthyroidism:

As its name suggests, hyperthyroidism occurs when your body makes too much of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), and becomes overactive. If you have hyperthyroidism, you may experience a fast heartbeat, increased appetite, anxiety, sensitivity to heat, or sudden weight loss.

Thyroid Disease Symptoms 

Thyroid Disease symptoms can be different and very common. Symptoms can  vary depending if the Thyroid gland is overproducing or underproducing its hormones. 

Underproducing symptoms (Hypothyroidism)

• Having muscle weakness and tremors.
• Feeling sensitive to heat.

Overproducing symptoms (Hyperthyroidism)

• Having dry and coarse hair.
• Having a hoarse voice.

If you experience any of the symptoms above, it’s advisable to seek help from a medical professional. 

Medical Diagnosis of Thyroid disease 

Some exams may include : 

• Blood testing
• Medical history review
• Physical examination

Our medical providers at AFC Urgent Care New Bedford will perform the tests listed above to further understand what is occurring in your thyroid gland. It’s not only important for the doctor to  understand what’s going on, but for you as well. 

Managing Thyroid disease

Don’t panic! It's important to manage it effectively. Managing your thyroid disease may include dietary changes, lifestyle changes, medications and/or other treatments.Most of the time, no drastic change or disruption will occur in a person’s daily life.

AFC Urgent Care Bedford Can Test Your Thyroid 

The only way to know for sure if you have a thyroid condition or disease is to get tested. Luckily for you, AFC Urgent Care Bedford  can help test you. Our doors are open 7 days a week and we take in walk-ins as well as appointments. 

Our medical providers will give you a full checkup and administer blood work to get you the results you need. If you have a thyroid condition, we can help point you in the right direction!