Is There Something Wrong with My Thyroid?

The thyroid is a large endocrine gland shaped like a butterfly located in your neck in front of your throat. The thyroid has two lobes that are situated on either side of your windpipe and connected by thyroid tissue called the isthmus. The thyroid manufactures the thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which interact with the cells in your body and help to regulate everything from breathing and heart rat to metabolism and menstrual cycles to body temperature and blood pressure. When your thyroid hormones become unbalanced, you can develop hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is the medical term for an overproduction of the T3 and T4 hormones. When too much of these hormones is released into the bloodstream and interacts with your cells, it speeds up their processes. You may experience symptoms such as a high body temperature, rapid heart rate, irritability, anxiety, and unintended rapid weight loss.

Hypothyroidism

The other condition you can have with your thyroid is hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism happens when not enough T3 and T4 is produced. This slows cell processes and can cause fatigue, dry skin and hair, hair loss, and diarrhea.

Thyroid Nodules

Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can lead to the development of thyroid nodules. Thyroid nodules are solid or fluid-filled lumps that form within the thyroid. Most thyroid nodules don’t cause signs or symptoms. Sometimes the nodules can become enlarged and press on your throat or breathing tube, which can cause shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing.

Treating Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid nodules treatment depends upon the severity of the condition and whether it’s non-cancerous or cancerous. Our thyroid nodule doctors provide treatments both with and without surgery. We work closely with our patients to monitor their conditions.

Lakeside Allergy ENT is home to three board-certified otolaryngologists who specialize in diagnosis and treatment of all ear, nose, and throat related disorders, including thyroid nodules and thyroid disorders. Thyroid nodule treatment requires expert care. If you have any of the symptoms of a thyroid nodule, call our office at 972-771-5443 or get started by requesting an appointment using the form on this page.