Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism means your thyroid is underproducing thyroid hormones, affecting normal body functions. The highly skilled providers at Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. in Tyler and Lindale, Texas, specialize in diagnosing and treating hypothyroidism. The internal medicine practice offers in-house diagnostic services to find and treat the root cause of your health concern. Call the office nearest you or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about treatments for hypothyroidism.

What are thyroid hormones?

Thyroid hormones are a group of hormones made by your thyroid, a small gland in your neck. The thyroid hormones manage your body’s metabolism, which is the system that determines how much energy your body needs to function.

Your thyroid hormones control your body temperature, body weight, and heart rate. These hormones also influence energy levels and mood. 

If your thyroid gland isn’t producing an adequate supply of thyroid hormones, you have hypothyroidism, also called underactive thyroid.

Hypothyroidism is a common condition. Though there are many causes of hypothyroidism, it most often develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the thyroid gland. This condition is called Hashimoto’s disease.  

Hypothyroidism may also occur after treatment for thyroid cancer, which may include surgery to remove some or all of the thyroid gland or radiation therapy.

I’m gaining weight. Could I have hypothyroidism?

Unexpected weight gain, or difficulty losing weight, is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. Other symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Low mood
• Constipation
• Poor tolerance to cold
• Low libido
• Body soreness
• Muscle weakness
• Slow heart rate

Symptoms of hypothyroidism usually develop slowly over time, and you may not notice these symptoms for months or years. Many people also dismiss their symptoms as something else.

When should I get professional help for hypothyroidism?

You should schedule an appointment with the experts at Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. if you have concerns about hypothyroidism and want an evaluation. You should also get professional help if you have hypothyroidism but your current treatments aren’t helping.

Your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms and medical history. They perform a physical exam and run laboratory tests to check hormone levels to confirm or rule out hypothyroidism.

What are the treatments for hypothyroidism?

Synthetic thyroid hormones are the primary treatment for hypothyroidism. Your provider at Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. uses your lab work to determine and adjust the dose of your prescription so you get the best results.

They also recommend getting regular exercise and eating a balanced diet. 

Your provider schedules routine follow-up visits to monitor your hormone levels and symptoms. Hypothyroidism is a chronic condition and requires ongoing treatment.

Call Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. or schedule an appointment using the online booking feature today.