Thyroid Disorders
Have you noticed a drastic change in your energy levels or metabolism? These symptoms can point to an issue with the thyroid gland. The thyroid is a gland found at the base of the neck which is shaped like a small butterfly and plays a key role in managing several bodily functions. Thyroid problems can lead to a variety of health conditions which interfere with daily life. If you or a member of your family are experiencing unusual symptoms, turn to Mountain West ENT in Bountiful or Layton for thyroid disease and tumor treatment throughout Davis County.
Understanding Thyroid Disease and Tumors
Thyroid disease and tumors can be broken down into several different categories depending on the patient’s symptoms. Under and overactive thyroid glands are often responsible for thyroid conditions. Five types of thyroid disease and tumors we see often at our Bountiful and Layton locations include:
- Hypothyroidism: When a thyroid gland is underactive it does not produce enough of the thyroid hormone to manage the body’s normal functions. Hypothyroidism is characterized by disruptions in metabolism, energy levels, body temperature, and heart rate. Patients with hypothyroidism benefit most from thyroid replacement therapy.
- Thyroiditis: When the thyroid gland is inflamed, patients have a condition known as thyroiditis. Symptoms of thyroiditis can present like hyper or hypothyroidism depending on the severity of the inflammation. Some patients with thyroiditis exhibit little to no symptoms. To treat your condition, your doctor will first attempt to regulate thyroid function, while discovering the underlying causes.
- Thyroid cancer: Abnormal growths or tumors found on the thyroid gland can be cancerous. The exact cause of thyroid cancer is not known, but it is often related to genetic and environmental factors. Patients with thyroid cancer have several treatment options including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.
- Thyroid nodules: Lumps found in the thyroid gland that are solid or filled with fluid are known as thyroid nodules. These lumps rarely require treatment as they do not cause symptoms. In some cases though, large and/or cancerous nodules must be removed to prevent further complications.
Call us at Mountain West ENT to schedule an appointment in Bountiful or Layton for thyroid disease and tumor treatment.