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Expert Care for Thyroid Disease
Thyroid Treatment & Diagnosis
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck, but despite its size, it plays a major role in your overall health. Sometimes, you might notice a swelling or a nodule in your neck. Other times, thyroid symptoms like unexplained weight changes, insomnia, or difficulty concentrating can be subtle indicators of thyroid problems.
At AllCare, we recognize how these symptoms can disrupt your daily life. Our experienced primary care physicians are dedicated to diagnosing and treating thyroid issues with personalized care. We’ll work closely with you to develop an individualized thyroid treatment plan that supports your recovery and well-being.
Why It’s Important to Treat Thyroid Disease
Our Approach to Thyroid Diseases
The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate many important bodily functions, including your metabolism—how your body converts food into energy. Thyroid disease is a common condition, affecting millions of people across the United States. Despite its prevalence, thyroid disease often goes undiagnosed, making it essential to seek care if you experience symptoms.
At AllCare, we provide a compassionate approach to thyroid disease. We offer a variety of diagnostic tests and treatment options to address your needs, including thyroid blood tests to check TSH levels. Our goal is to simplify your healthcare journey by providing comprehensive thyroid disease services in one convenient location.
What Are the Types of Thyroid Diseases?
Thyroid diseases fall into two main categories: hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). Each has different underlying causes.
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
Hyperthyroidism occurs when your thyroid produces too much hormone. Common causes include:
- Graves’ Disease: A chronic autoimmune disorder and the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.
- Thyroid Nodules: Abnormal lumps on the thyroid that can lead to excessive hormone production.
- Excess Iodine: Consuming too much iodine, whether from diet or certain medications, can cause your thyroid to overproduce hormones.
Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
Hypothyroidism happens when your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones. Common causes include:
- Hashimoto’s Disease: A chronic autoimmune condition and the leading cause of hypothyroidism.
- Iodine Deficiency: Often results in an enlarged thyroid (goiter). It’s the most common cause of hypothyroidism in regions where iodized salt is not readily available.
- Congenital Hypothyroidism: Affects newborns, occurring when a baby is born with a missing or underactive thyroid.
What are the Symptoms of Thyroid Disease?
Symptoms of thyroid disease can mimic other diseases, making it difficult to diagnose a thyroid condition. Depending on what type of thyroid disease you have, symptoms fall into two categories:
Hyperthyroidism Symptoms (Overactive Thyroid)
- Fast heart rate (tachycardia)
- Increased sweating
- Difficulty sleeping, or insomnia
- Unexpected weight loss
- Eye problems, including redness, dry eye, or vision problems
- Anxiousness or nervousness
- Irregular or lack of menstrual cycles
- Hair loss or thinning
- Diarrhea or excess fats in your stool
- Mood swings, including anxiety, irritability, and nervousness
Hypothyroidism Symptoms (Underactive Thyroid)
- Slow heart rate
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Unexplained weight gain
- Brittle hair and nails
- Constipation
- Muscle cramps
- Dry skin and dry, coarse hair
- Heavy menstrual periods
- Fertility problems
Thyroid Test and Treatments at AllCare
Thyroid Physical Exam
Your physician will review your symptoms and perform a physical exam, including feeling your thyroid to determine if it’s enlarged or if you have nodules.
Blood Tests
Blood tests can help detect an underactive or overactive thyroid by measuring the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). They can also help diagnose autoimmune thyroid disorders by measuring thyroid antibodies.
Medications
We offer several treatments for thyroid disease. These include antithyroid drugs that stop your thyroid from producing hormones, radioactive iodine therapy that damages thyroid cells to lower hormone levels, and synthetic thyroid medication that replaces missing hormones. Levothyroxine side effects should be monitored as part of your treatment.
Thyroid Ultrasound
Thyroid scans and ultrasounds are used to detect nodules and other thyroid diseases.
Fine Needle Aspiration
If a nodule is detected, your physician may perform a small needle aspiration to remove a small sample of tissue, which is then sent to a lab to determine if the nodule is cancerous.
Endocrinologist Referral
In some cases, we may refer you to an endocrinologist, including if your symptoms are severe, if you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant, or if your case is complex.
Online Doctor Visits and Telehealth Services
Experience the convenience of telehealth appointments at AllCare. Our telemedicine services are designed to provide you with seamless access to healthcare without the need to leave your home. Whether you need an online doctor’s appointment for immediate or primary care, AllCare’s got you covered. With our online telehealth services currently available to individuals located in Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Georgia, you can connect with our experienced urgent and primary care physicians via secure video calls.
At AllCare, we are expanding our virtual healthcare access to all services previously offered in person. This includes:
- Online Primary Care
- Online Urgent Care
- Online Women’s Healthcare
- Online Men’s Healthcare
- Online COIVD-19 Treatment
- Online Behavioral Health
- And more!
Who Can Benefit from Thyroid Disease Treatment at AllCare?
Many people who notice symptoms of either hyperthyroid or hypothyroid disease can benefit from a thyroid diagnosis and treatment, including:
- Anyone who has a noticeable nodule in their thyroid
- Women who are pregnant or trying to conceive
- People with a family history of thyroid disease and notice any symptoms
- Those experiencing unintended weight loss or weight gain
- Anyone with extreme fatigue or insomnia
- Women who are having menstrual changes, including shorter, lighter periods or heavy, painful periods
- Anyone experiencing hair loss
- Those who are unusually hot or cold
Because thyroid disease shares the same symptoms as many other medical conditions, it’s important to be properly diagnosed so you can receive the correct treatment.
How Do I Get Thyroid Disease Treatment at AllCare?
Getting a thyroid diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan for your thyroid disease is as easy as scheduling an appointment at AllCare. Here are a few simple steps for getting treated for a thyroid condition:
- Schedule an Appointment: Book online or contact AllCare to schedule a visit. Share key details about your symptoms and medical history to help guide your treatment.
- Consult with a Provider: Meet with one of our healthcare providers, who will evaluate your symptoms and conduct any necessary tests, including checking for low TSH or high TSH levels.
- Receive a Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on your diagnosis, you’ll receive a customized plan, which may include hypothyroidism treatment, hypothyroidism medication, medications, imaging tests, or referrals to specialists like surgeons if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thyroid Disease
01 Is thyroid disease preventable?
No, most thyroid diseases are caused by genetics or autoimmune disorders, which are not preventable. The only condition you may be able to prevent is an iodine deficiency or excess. Talk with your physician about ways to ensure you manage your iodine intake.
02 What are some complications of untreated thyroid disease?
Because your thyroid affects many of your other body functions, complications can arise if your thyroid disease is left untreated or if you’re not following your treatment plan. Depending on your thyroid condition, complications may include:
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
- Congestive heart failure
- Stroke
- Osteoporosis
- Depression
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Fertility issues
03 Can a thyroid nodule be cancer?
Thyroid nodules are very common, with about one in ten people having one. The good news is that nine out of ten nodules are benign. If you notice a goiter or feel a nodule, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out thyroid disease or other potential issues.
04 How Do I Keep My Thyroid Healthy?
While regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress are great for your overall health, they don’t directly affect your thyroid. The key factor for thyroid health is ensuring you consume the right amount of iodine. Foods like fish, healthy fats, dairy, and eggs can help you meet the daily recommended 150 mcg of iodine.
05 Do Thyroid Medications Cause Weight Gain?
It’s a common misconception that thyroid pills make you gain weight. The goal of thyroid medications is to regulate your metabolism to prevent weight gain. You should continue your medications and speak with your physician if you have concerns about gaining weight while on thyroid medicine.
STATES WHERE WE SERVE PRIMARY AND URGENT CARE
Thyroid Disease Exam in Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.
At AllCare, we’re proud to deliver exceptional primary and urgent care to residents across Virginia, Maryland, Washington D.C., and Georgia. From bustling city centers to serene suburban neighborhoods, our clinics are strategically placed for your convenience and care. Experience top-tier thyroid treatment in your community with AllCare, where your health is our priority.
Prioritize your health today: schedule your thyroid treatment appointment
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