The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck. Despite its size, it regulates your body's metabolism, energy production, and overall growth. This gland produces hormones that influence almost every organ in your body, affecting processes like heart rate, body temperature, and weight.
When you don't feel right, it could be due to issues with your thyroid in Fredericksburg and Stafford, VA. Symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, hair loss, mood swings, and changes in bowel habits may indicate thyroid dysfunction. Call our office if you experience these symptoms.
Visiting the Ear, Nose & Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center of Fredericksburg can be beneficial when dealing with thyroid concerns. Specialists at this center can perform comprehensive evaluations, including blood tests and imaging studies, to assess thyroid function accurately. They can also provide personalized treatment plans, medication, lifestyle changes, or surgical interventions.
Common Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid disorders affect the small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that regulates metabolism. Two common disorders are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and cold sensitivity.
Hyperthyroidism is the opposite, where the thyroid produces too many hormones, causing symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and heat intolerance. You may be experiencing hypothyroidism if you gain weight or feel cold frequently. Hyperthyroidism symptoms include unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and sweating.
Treatment for hypothyroidism typically involves daily hormone replacement medication, such as levothyroxine, to restore hormone levels. Hyperthyroidism treatments include medications to reduce hormone production (like methimazole), radioactive iodine therapy, or thyroid surgery in severe cases.
Regular check-ups and blood tests are crucial for managing disorders for thyroid in Fredericksburg and Stafford, VA. Lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet, managing stress, and getting regular exercise can also support thyroid health. If you suspect thyroid issues, seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Know When to Visit Ear, Nose & Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center of Fredericksburg
The Ear, Nose & Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center of Fredericksburg is ideal for thyroid concerns like nodules, goiters, or thyroiditis. Visit if you experience neck swelling, difficulty swallowing, or voice changes. During an exam, expect a thorough assessment of your medical history and physical examination of your thyroid and neck, possibly including ultrasound imaging.
Blood tests for thyroid function and, if needed, fine-needle aspiration for biopsy may follow. Specialists here provide comprehensive care, offering treatment options ranging from medication management to surgical intervention for thyroid conditions, ensuring personalized care for optimal thyroid health.
Please explore our website to learn about the conditions we treat and the services provided. If you have questions regarding complications with your thyroid in Fredericksburg and Stafford, VA, and want to schedule an appointment with one of our physicians at Ear, Nose & Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center of Fredericksburg, call (540) 371-1226.