What Does Your Thyroid Do?

The thyroid is a gland that helps regulate the metabolism by releasing certain hormones into the bloodstream. If the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, various thyroid disorders can develop. Dr. Robert Youkilis, Dr. Jeffrey Beach, and Dr. Seth Bruggers, the board certified ear, nose and throat doctors at Northside ENT in Carmel, IN, treat thyroid disorders. 

Thyroid Function 

The thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system, which produces many of the hormones the body needs to function properly. The function of the thyroid is to convert iodine from the foods you eat into two hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These two hormones help the body function properly by regulating cellular metabolism and increasing cellular activity. Thyroid disorders can develop when the thyroid produces too much or too little of either the T3 or T4 hormones. 

Thyroid Disorders 

Several different thyroid problems can develop when the thyroid gland is not functioning properly. Types of thyroid disorders include:

  • Hyperthyroidism — Overproduction of the T4 hormone 
  • Hypothyroidism — Underproduction of the T3 and T4 hormones
  • Thyroid Nodules — Small abnormal tissue growths on the thyroid 
  • Goiter — An enlarged or swollen thyroid
  • Thyroid Cancer

Signs of a Thyroid Disorder 

A variety of symptoms can develop when the thyroid is either overactive and producing too much T4 or under active and not producing enough thyroid hormones. Common signs and symptoms of a thyroid disorder include:

  • Heart Palpitations 
  • Exhaustion or fatigue
  • Mood swings or irritability
  • Muscle trembling or weakness
  • Numbness or tingling in the hands
  • Unexpected weight loss or gain
  • Increased sensitivity to cold
  • Nervousness 
  • Dry skin
  • Hair loss

Thyroid Treatments 

Several options are available for treating disorders of the thyroid at our Carmel, IN, ENT practice. The most effective course of treatment will depend on the specific thyroid disorder, patient symptoms, and other factors. Thyroid treatment could include medications to help regulate hormone production, dietary changes and other lifestyle modifications, or surgery if nodules, cancer, or a goiter is present. Our experienced ENT providers will create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. 

If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of a thyroid disorder, we can help. Our doctors will diagnose the problem and develop a treatment plan for you. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Youkilis, Dr. Beach, or Dr. Bruggers for a thyroid exam by calling Northside ENT in Carmel, IN, at (317) 844-5656.

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Northside ENT

Monday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed