The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower front of the neck. Unfortunately, millions of Americans are diagnosed with a Thyroid condition. Thyroid disease is a common endocrine disorder, and can cause a wide range of symptoms, from fatigue and weight gain to depression and anxiety. Being educated on Thyroid Disease will help you better understand the cause, symptoms, and treatments available. 

  You may be at a higher risk of developing a thyroid condition if you:

• Take a medication that’s high in iodine (amiodarone).
• Are older than 60, especially in women.
• Have had treatment for a past thyroid condition or cancer (thyroidectomy or radiation).

AFC Urgent Care West Springfield has come up with a guide to help you understand the causes of thyroid disease, how to test for it and what to do if you are living with a thyroid disorder. 

The Causes Of 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. Let’s also keep in mind that there are other Thyroid Diseases, as well. Some of these 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 101

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.
• Experiencing irregular menstrual periods or having your menstrual cycle stop.
• Feeling sensitive to heat.
• Having vision problems or eye irritation.
• Having trouble sleeping

Overproducing symptoms (Hyperthyroidism)

• Having dry and coarse hair.
• Having a hoarse voice.
• Experiencing an intolerance to cold temperatures.
• Feeling fatigue 
• Gaining weight 

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

How To Test For Thyroid disease

Our medical providers at AFC Urgent Care West Springfield   can pinpoint any problems your thyroid gland may be suffering. As broad as the Thyroid symptoms can be, our medical staff has specific tests to make sure your Thyroid Gland is doing what it’s supposed to be doing. 

 Some exams may include: 

• Blood testing
• Physical examination
• Medical History Review 

Living with a Thyroid condition

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. For the most part, Thyroid disease will not interrupt a normal lifestyle. Exercising is advisable and a Thyroid condition will not impact any exercise routine.

AFC Urgent Care West Springfield has your back 

Unsure if you have a thyroid condition? Visit AFC Urgent Care West Springfield any day of the week to test for thyroid disease and management tips. Our doors are open 7 days a week with no appointment needed. We can give you a full checkup including blood work to determine whether or not you have a thyroid condition. If you do, we’ll point you in the right direction for necessary steps, treatment and suggested  lifestyle changes to get you to manage this condition.

Always here for our families and friends in the West Springfield communities!