Thyroid Treatment & Disorder

What are thyroid disorders?

Thyroid disorders are conditions that occur when the thyroid doesn’t function like it should. Two main types of thyroid disorders exist: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid is overactive, while hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid is underactive. Other conditions may also affect thyroid function, but they’re less common.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?

In most cases, we diagnose thyroid disorders based on a simple blood test. This blood test measures the level of thyroid stimulating hormone, or TSH, in the blood. If this level is abnormal, it may indicate that a patient has an underactive or overactive thyroid gland.

What treatments are available?

For patients with hypothyroidism, treatment usually involves taking a synthetic version of TSH to improve thyroid activity. For patients with hyperthyroidism, treatment options vary. Some of the treatments Diabetes Texas may recommend to patients with thyroid disorders include, but are not limited to:

  • Anti-thyroid medications

  • Beta blockers

  • Radioactive iodine to shrink the thyroid gland

  • Surgery to remove most of the thyroid gland

When should patients make an appointment for thyroid testing?

If left untreated, thyroid disorders can lead to serious complications. Patients should make an appointment with Diabetes Texas if they are experiencing any of the symptoms of an overactive or underactive thyroid gland.