The thyroid gland has a big job in the human body. It influences almost all of the metabolic processes in your body through the hormones it produces. But like any body part, our thyroids can be affected by thyroid disorders, and the most common involve abnormal production of thyroid hormones.
Types of Thyroid Disease:
There are two types of thyroid disorders that cause abnormal hormone production. They are hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Each are more common in women, people with other thyroid problems, and people over 60 years old.
Hyperthyroidism: This branch of thyroid diseases occurs when there is an overproduction of thyroid hormones. Its causes include:
- Graves’ disease or the production of too much thyroid hormone
- Inflammation of the thyroid that causes the gland to produce extra hormones
- Problems or damage in the thyroid or pituitary glands
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism can include:
- Weight loss
- Increased appetite
- Increased sweating
- Anxiety
- Trouble sleeping
- Frequent bowel movements
Hypothyroidism: The opposite kind of thyroid diseases happens as a result of an underproduction of hormones in the thyroid. Causes of these thyroid diseases can include:
- Removal of the thyroid gland
- Exposure to excessive levels of iodide contained in some cold, sinus and heart medications
- Excessive consumption of lithium
- Malfunctions with the thyroid or pituitary gland
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Thinning hair
- Cold intolerance
- Joint and muscle pain
- Puffy face
- Slowed heart rate
Treatment for Thyroid Disease
Treatment for thyroid disease depends on the underlying cause. Thyroid disorders and diseases are nothing to ignore. If you are concerned about thyroid disease, visit a FastMed Urgent Care near you to be seen by a medical professional. Our staff is dedicating to providing patients with fast, high-quality care, all at an affordable cost. A medical professional will discuss your symptoms with you, then recommend appropriate testing and treatment options.
About FastMed
FastMed is a leading provider of high-quality, convenient, affordable, and compassionate healthcare in 34 counties across North Carolina. FastMed serves both urban and rural communities across the state with a wide range of care options, including preventive, telemedicine, occupational health, and primary and urgent care. FastMed is one of the few urgent care providers in the nation that has earned The Joint Commission’s coveted Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety, and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information, visit www.fastmed.com.