The Importance of Looking After Your Thyroid
13 December 2022 by Omniya ClinicThe thyroid gland is located in the neck and is responsible for many of the body’s functions, including heart rate and temperature. Thyroid complications are a common issue with many people suffering from both over and underactive thyroids.
During infancy and childhood, thyroid secretion is crucial for healthy brain development. However, it is equally important to look after your thyroid as you grow older to prevent an imbalance of hormones within your body.
What Does the Thyroid Do?
The thyroid hormone helps regulate the body’s metabolism (the process of transforming the food we eat into energy).
There are two main hormones that the thyroid releases: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). While T4 is largely inactive, the hormone can develop into T3 and impact the cell’s metabolism.
The production and release of these hormones are controlled by a feedback loop system. This also controls functions such as high blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature and digestion.
What Are the Symptoms of an Underactive Thyroid?
A thyroid becomes underactive when the gland is not able to produce enough hormones. Commonly, side effects include fatigue, weight gain, and depressive moods. An underactive thyroid can often go unnoticed as these symptoms are similar to other conditions.
Who Can Be Affected by an Underactive Thyroid?
Everyone can be affected by underactive thyroids, although it is more common in women. If left untreated in children, it may lead to long-term effects such as stunted physical growth. Some babies are born with the condition; this is called congenital hypothyroidism.
No matter the age or gender, catching an underactive thyroid early is essential. The condition can lead to serious health implications over time if not dealt with.
What Is Thyroid Therapy?
Thyroid therapy is a procedure that works to correct the imbalance of hormones and can be very beneficial for those who struggle with an underactive thyroid. By controlling the growth of the enlarged thyroid gland and the nodules which grow on them, the thyroid treatment helps to correct hormone irregularities.
How Can Omniya Help?
At your appointment, one of Omniya’s experienced doctors will take a thorough and detailed medical history and discuss any concerns you may have. A full thyroid test will be carried out including a blood sample being taken to measure your hormone levels. This will indicate how the thyroid is working.
Depending on your results, you may be recommended thyroid therapy to help your current conditions. The tests will determine the appropriate levels of thyroid hormone which you will require and regular check in appointments will be needed to survey your hormone levels.
Our experienced doctors work alongside you to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs, monitoring your progress to ensure your thyroid function is back under control. If you are looking for advice or further information about how thyroid therapy can help, contact Omniya today!