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Our bodies are complex machines that require a variety of hormones to function properly. These tiny molecules regulate everything from blood pressure and hunger to sexual desire and reproduction.
Your thyroid gland plays a crucial role in your endocrine system. This small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck makes and releases hormones that control how your body uses energy. Part of this important job involves regulating your metabolism by releasing the right amount of hormones.
When you have a thyroid disorder like hyperthyroidism, this gland makes too much of these hormones, leading to several uncomfortable symptoms and health complications. Unfortunately, many signs of hyperthyroidism resemble other health conditions, which causes many doctors to overlook or misdiagnose the problem.
As a seasoned endocrinologist, Dr. Rohit Dwivedi brings his expertise in hormone disorders to his patients at Sonoran Endocrinology. If you notice any of the symptoms described below, it could be time to schedule an appointment.
Because of the role your thyroid plays in your metabolism, having high levels of thyroid hormones in your body can cause an elevated metabolic rate.
This hypermetabolic state causes a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including:
You can also have life-threatening symptoms, like atrial fibrillation and arrhythmias that can cause strokes or congestive heart failure. If you experience shortness of breath, dizziness, loss of consciousness, or changes in your heart rate, seek medical attention immediately.
Several conditions can trigger hyperthyroidism. However, an autoimmune disorder known as Graves’ disease is most often to blame.
When you have Graves’ disease, antibodies in your body cause your thyroid gland to release too many hormones. This condition is more common in women and often runs in families.
Other causes of hyperthyroidism include:
Without treatment, hyperthyroidism can lead to numerous complications, ranging from brittle bones to eye problems and vision loss. It also puts you at risk of heart problems and a thyrotoxicosis crisis, where your symptoms intensify suddenly and can lead to fever, delirium, and rapid pulse.
Fortunately, Dr. Dwivedi can help. With his experience in managing thyroid disorders based on the latest treatments and medical research, you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands.
The most common therapies for stopping excess thyroid hormone production include:
In addition to these medical treatments, Dr. Dwivedi could recommend dietary changes, exercise, and nutritional supplements focused on improving your symptoms and protecting your bones, which hyperthyroidism can weaken.
No matter which treatment option you undergo for hyperthyroidism, you should expect to have ongoing periodic bloodwork to monitor your hormone production.
Don’t ignore the signs of a thyroid disorder. Contact one of our offices in Surprise, Gilbert, Lake Havasu City, or Prescott, Arizona, by calling or booking an appointment online today.
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