THYROID DISORDERS

The thyroid gland, a butterfly- shaped gland located at the front base of the neck, helps to regulate multiple bodily functions including metabolism. The hormones secreted by the thyroid affect many systems and functions, including:

Thyroid Disorders generally involve over-activity or under-activity of the thyroid gland:

• Metabolism
• Brain development
• Breathing, heart & nervous system function
• Blood cell production
• Muscle and bone strength

• Body temperature
• Menstrual cycles
• Weight gain and loss
• Cholesterol levels
• Skin hydration

Thyroid Disorders generally involve over-activity or under-activity of the thyroid gland:

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Hypothyroidism:

Occurs when the thyroid gland is underactive, causing insufficient production of thyroid hormones. Symptoms can include:

 

  • weight gain
  • hair loss
  • constipation
  • low body temperature
  • fatigue
  • nonrestorative sleep
  • depression
  • dry skin and hair
  • brittle nails
  • muscle aches/joint pain
  • brain fog
  • poor memory,
  • irregular periods
  • puffy face and extremities
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Hyperthyroidism:

Occurs when there is over activity of the thyroid gland, causing excess production of thyroid hormones. Symptoms can include:

 

  • increased heart rate
  • heart palpitations
  • excessive sweating
  • diarrhea
  • weight loss
  • intolerance to heat
  • fatigue
  • nervousness
  • menstrual irregularity
  • poor concentration/focus
  • tremors
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Hashimoto's Thyroiditis:

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, also known as autoimmune thyroiditis, or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disease. With Hashimoto’s, antibodies react against proteins in the thyroid gland, causing gradual destruction of the gland itself, making the gland unable to produce the thyroid hormones the body needs. Symptoms of Hashimoto’s vary per patient. Patients may present with symptoms of either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, or fluctuate between both extremes. This cycling back and forth between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism is characteristic of Hashimoto’s disease. A patient may experience periods of anxiety, insomnia, diarrhea, or weight loss followed by periods of depression, fatigue, constipation, or weight gain.

At Rocky Mountain Comprehensive Health, we consider the patient’s history and symptoms as well as thyroid lab results in determining the best treatment approaches for thyroid disorders. Concerned about your thyroid? Call 303-731-0525 today.