Internal Medicine Questions – Common Signs of Thyroid Disease

There are many reasons why you should visit with an internal medicine physician. These professionals can diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions, including thyroid disease. You may not think to ask your doctor whether you have this disease. However, there are clues that it may be attacking your body.

Types of thyroid diseases

The thyroid is a critical part of the human body, as it regulates much of the body’s metabolic process. Thyroid diseases and issues are not uncommon. These can be minor and require little attention but may also hinder daily activities and cause death. Most thyroid problems stem from either too much or too little hormone production. Hyperthyroidism diseases include Graves’ disease, subacute thyroiditis and toxic adenomas. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a common example of hypothyroidism.

Internal medicine treatments

The internal medicine doctor will recommend a treatment for the patient’s thyroid disease based on the severity and type. For thyroid cancer, a surgeon will remove the tumor, and a dose of radioactive iodine may be used to kill any remaining cancer cells. Medication and hormone replacements may also treat certain conditions.

Fatigue and weakness

Because the thyroid controls metabolism, it is connected to a person’s energy level. It is not necessarily abnormal to feel lethargic. However, when a person feels constantly tired and out of energy, it may be a sign that the individual’s thyroid is acting up. The individual may feel particularly exhausted after light to moderate exercise. The internal medicine physician may conduct a blood test to determine whether the person’s thyroid hormone levels are out of balance.

Problems with diet, appetite

Adults of all ages can struggle to lose and keep off weight. Diet and exercise can usually help a person shed the pounds and find the figure they are looking for. However, when these efforts are unsuccessful, there could be thyroid issues. The person may also have no desire to eat foods they used to enjoy. If these problems persist for several months or longer, the patient should seek medical attention and request to be tested for thyroid disease.

Cognitive, mental challenges

Thyroid disease will not just affect a person’s physical health, but there can also be mental or emotional consequences. A person with thyroid disease may have bouts with depression and lack of motivation and desire. When a person’s thyroid hormones are not in the normal range, it may be difficult to remember names, dates, places and events. Thyroid disease patients may have clouded thinking and slowed mental activity.

Get the help you need

Living with a poorly functioning thyroid can have negative consequences. From feeling worn-out to having struggles with weight gain or memory, thyroid disease can manifest itself in many ways. Pay attention to these signs. If you believe you may be at risk for a thyroid condition, speak to your internal medicine doctor and share your concerns. Make an appointment today so you can find the relief you need. Your doctor can effectively treat the disease and restore your quality of life.

Get more information about Millennium Medical Care in Fairfax at https://millenniummedicalcare.com.

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