Could your thyroid be to blame for your chronic fatigue or sudden weight gain?

You may have some kind of thyroid problem, and may not even realize it. Even though there are different kinds of thyroid disorders the most common type is called hypothyroidism, in which the thyroid gland is underactive. Could you be dealing with an underactive thyroid? Our Long Beach, CA, otolaryngologists Dr. Jesse Tan and Dr. Jesus Tan are here to tell you the warning signs of a thyroid issue.

You might have an underactive thyroid issue if:

• You feel tired throughout the day even with a full night’s rest
• You gain weight unexpectedly or have trouble losing the weight
• You experience mood swings (e.g. depression)
• You have muscle aches and pain
• You have cold hands and feet
• You have poor concentration (feeling foggy-headed)
• You have a hoarse throat
• You have swelling in the neck

You might have an overactive thyroid (known as hyperthyroidism) if:

• You are feeling jittery or anxious
• You feel tired
• You lose weight unexpectedly
• You are sensitive to heat
• You have trouble sleeping
• You find yourself shaking

As you get older these symptoms may be milder, making it more difficult to diagnose.

How is hypothyroidism treated?

Since your thyroid gland isn’t producing the proper amount of hormones necessary, the medication that your Long Beach, CA, ENT doctor will recommend will balance out these hormones. One of the most common medications used to treat hypothyroidism is called levothyroxine, which is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. Once we find the right balance of hormones this medication can help you for the rest of your life.

Those with hyperthyroidism may benefit from taking medications to reduce the amount of hormones produced by the thyroid, as well as taking radioactive iodine or beta-blockers.

When should I consider thyroid surgery?

A thyroidectomy, the removal of the thyroid gland, isn’t commonly performed. While thyroid surgery isn’t usually used for hypothyroidism it is more commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism. And here at Tan Head & Neck Clinic in Long Beach, CA, we offer advanced robotic technology to provide more precise and less invasive thyroid surgery.

If you aren’t able to tolerate the thyroid medication you are taking or if you are pregnant and have hyperthyroidism then thyroid surgery may be a good option for you. Once the thyroid is removed you’ll be given medication that will provide you with the proper dosage of thyroid hormones.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a potential thyroid problem then it’s time to seek proper care. Tan Head & Neck Clinic in Long Beach, CA, is here to help give you the answers and relief you need to feel like yourself again.