Thyroid Disorders Treatment Specialist in Little Rock, AR

Although thyroid problems are quite common, they can be difficult to diagnose, since many of the symptoms overlap with other common health issues. Also, the symptoms can range in severity, meaning it could take a long time for them to cause enough of a disturbance to cause you to see a physician. Thyroid problems can be serious and should be addressed as soon as possible.

There are two main types of thyroid issues: hypothyroidism, which is an underactive thyroid (or lower than average levels of thyroid function), and hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid (or above average levels of thyroid function). Symptoms of hypothyroidism can include:

– Tiredness and fatigue
– Weight gain
– Increased sensitivity to cold
– Muscle aches, weakness, or cramping
– Dry skin and brittle nails
– Depression
– Low libido (sex drive)
– Irregular or heavy periods (in women)

The other main type, hyperthyroidism can include:

– Nervousness or irritability, more so than usual
– Mood swings
– Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
– Increased sensitivity to heat
– Persistent twitching or trembling
– Unexplained weight loss

In some people, thyroid issues may be caused by an autoimmune disorder known as Hashimoto’s Disease, and that may require additional attention and treatment. Often, the symptoms listed above may start out mild, but they generally tend to worsen if left untreated. Many people may be unaware they are having thyroid issues until they have routine blood work or a physical done by their physician. Fortunately, thyroid issues are highly treatable and can be managed well over time.

The two main types of thyroid disease are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, as listed above. An autoimmune disorder known as Hashimoto’s Disease can be a caused by an underactive (hypo) thyroid, and it may require different attention and treatment than the main types of thyroid issues.

There can be other issues that occur in your thyroid gland such as thyroid cancer, which anyone can suffer from, not just those with pre-existing thyroid issues. Symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, a lump on your neck (in the area of the thyroid gland), persistent pain in the neck and throat, or swollen lymph nodes (around the sides of your neck).

Thyroid problems can be caused by a variety of factors. They can be genetic, so if there is a history of thyroid conditions in your family, you could be at elevated risk of developing a thyroid problem. Certain medications or other chronic health conditions may also contribute to thyroid problems. As mentioned above, if you have Hashimoto’s Disease, that can be the cause of an underactive thyroid.

Yes. However, in most cases, thyroid problems are highly treatable and can be managed very well throughout your lifetime. Medications taken daily can help balance out your thyroid levels, and many people respond very well to this course of treatment. You may need to have your blood tested more regularly than others, to ensure the medication is working and that your thyroid levels remain adequate.

Sometimes, management can be tricky in that you may need to adjust your dose over time, as you age or go through certain life changes. It’s also important to remember that thyroid issues can range from mild to moderate, to severe, with most patients falling into the mild to moderate category. Even if your symptoms are mild, they’re not something you should just have to live with. At Arkansas Diabetes and Endocrinology Center, we have qualified physicians that can diagnose, treat, and help you manage thyroid problems. We are here to give you the information and support you need. With thyroid problems, it’s important to build a rapport with a physician that knows you and your history, and this is something we’re proud to provide. We serve patients from Little Rock AR, Conway AR, North Little Rock AR, Pine Bluff AR, Hot Springs AR, Benton AR, Sherwood AR, Russellville AR, Jacksonville AR, Cabot AR, Searcy AR, Bryant AR, Jonesboro AR, Forrest City AR, Magnolia AR, Camden AR, Malvern AR, Batesville AR, Arkadelphia AR, Clarksville AR, Monticello AR, Heber Springs AR, Morrilton AR, Stuttgart AR, Greenbrier AR, Sheridan AR and Vilonia AR.