With millions of Americans affected by some form of thyroid disease, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms, causes and treatments available. Thyroid disease is a common endocrine disorder, and can cause a wide range of symptoms, from fatigue and weight gain to depression and anxiety. 

Fortunately, there are a variety of tests and treatments available to help with early diagnosis and management of the symptoms of thyroid disease. In light of Thyroid Awareness Month AFC Urgent Care Vernon is here to help you stay informed about the dangers of thyroid disease and how to take control of your health.

Determining If You Have Thyroid Disease 

Understanding Thyroid Disease is very important. Before digging into Thyroid Disease, one should understand where the Thyroid Gland is and what it does. Knowing the foundation of your body will give you knowledge on how your body works and what truly is going on. 

What’s the Thyroid Gland? 

The thyroid gland, located in the front of the neck just below the Adam's apple, takes iodine from the diet and makes thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone affects a person’s physical energy, temperature, weight and mood.

What does it do? 

It produces the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which help regulate metabolism, heart rate, brain function, body temperature and more. 

What causes a thyroid condition?

Thyroid disease is caused by an imbalance in your body’s production of thyroid hormones. Hormones such as the Thyroxine (T4) and the triiodothyronine(T3).

There are Two Ways a Thyroid Can Be Functioning Poorly: People with Thyroid disease are either Hyperthyroid, or Hypothyroid. 

Hypothyroidism:

With hypothyroidism your thyroid gland doesn’t make enough TSH- “Thyroid Stimulating Hormones” to function well. With 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.

What signs should I look for?

There are many symptoms for thyroid disease. Many of the symptoms can be minor and can be easily mistaken for something that will “go away soon.” If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s highly recommended to get in contact with a medical professional.

• Feeling fatigue 
• Unusual short of breath 
• Abnormal heartbeat 
• Insomnia 
• Menstruation change 
• Skin discoloration 

I think I have a Thyroid condition. Is There A Test?

If you think you may have a Thyroid condition, the best thing you can do is get a diagnosis. At AFC Urgent Care Vernon, you will be asked about your medical history, will undergo a physical, and blood will be drawn to get a more accurate diagnosis. 

The blood work will test your hormone levels. Concluding if there is an abnormality of production. All these tests and questions will not only help the medical professional understand what is going on, but it will give you a better understanding of why you may think you have a Thyroid condition. 

I have a Thyroid condition 

If the diagnosis confirms a Thyroid condition, it is very important to manage it and to understand some things may change. Keep these changes in mind.

• Lifestyle changes
• Dietary changes 
• Medication and/or treatment will be part of your routine

AFC Urgent Care Vernon Can Screen And Test Your For Thyroid Disease

AFC Urgent Care Vernon professionals are here for you.  Our doors are open 7 days a week and we take in walk-ins as well as appointments. Do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. 

You can count on us to help point you in the right direction in case you do have a thyroid condition.