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 Torrington is here to help you recognize the warning signs to ensure you stay in the know and keep your health in check.

Defining Thyroid Disease 

Thyroid disease is caused by an imbalance in your body’s production of thyroid hormones. The two main thyroid hormones are triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). The thyroid gland’s responsibility is to manage how much of these hormones are produced. 

This is done by taking in factors such as stress, diet and environment and adjusting hormone production accordingly. In some cases, you may develop an autoimmune reaction, which can cause the immune system to attack the thyroid gland. As a result, hormone production will either slow down or speed up, leading to an imbalance in thyroid hormone levels and thyroid disease.

People with Thyroid disease are either Hyperthyroid, or Hypothyroid. 

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.

How do I know I have a Thyroid condition?

Knowing whether or not you have a thyroid condition can be tricky. Thyroid Disease symptoms can include:

• Fatigue 
• Increase in heart rate  
• shortness of breath 
• Rapid or abnormal heartbeat
• Anxiety
• Hyperactiveness or restlessness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Unusual sensitivity to cold
• Weight loss or unexplained weight gain - Changes in bowel habits
• Changes in menstruation
• Changes in skin, including skin texture or color

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it’s highly advised to get tested by a medical professional.

Getting Tested For Thyroid Disorders

If you’ve been experiencing any of the symptoms above, it’s important to get tested for thyroid disease. Our providers at AFC Urgent Care Torrington can perform a physical exam, offer a blood test, and ask about your medical history to rule out other conditions. 

Blood tests are crucial in understanding hormone levels and specific signs that tend to be present in an autoimmune condition. 

Living With Thyroid Disease

If you’ve been diagnosed with a thyroid condition, it’s important to manage it effectively. Managing your thyroid disease may include dietary changes, lifestyle changes, medications and/or other treatments. It’s important to be open and honest with your doctor in order to get the right treatment.

AFC Urgent Care Torrington can help you out

If you’re in need of professional help, don’t hesitate in visiting AFC Urgent Care Torrington. The medical staff will be more than happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding a thyroid condition. Our doors are open 7 days a week and we take in walk-ins as well as appointments.