About 12% of Americans are living with thyroid issues. These ailments present various symptoms that can affect your energy levels, mood, and quality of life. At his practice in Glen Burnie, Maryland, Mahesh S. Ochaney, MD, specializes in treating thyroid issues. Using safe, effective methods of care, he can help you feel better. To schedule an appointment, call the office, or book online today. You can also schedule telehealth services with Dr. Ochaney during normal business hours, after business hours, or on weekends.

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What are thyroid issues?

Thyroid issues are conditions affecting thyroid function, a small gland at the base of your neck. If your thyroid produces too many or too few hormones, it can lead to various uncomfortable symptoms and potentially serious health problems.

The thyroid plays a critical role in various bodily functions, including your metabolism, heart, and respiratory rate. If you regularly experience fatigue, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping, make an appointment with Dr. Ochaney right away.

What are some common thyroid issues?

Dr. Ochaney treats a variety of common thyroid issues, including:

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease that causes your body’s immune system to attack and destroy your thyroid gland. Over time, this destruction affects your thyroid’s ability to produce hormones (hypothyroidism), resulting in various symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and depression.

Grave’s disease

Grave’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes your thyroid gland to produce too many hormones. The condition can affect anyone, but it tends to run in families. Common symptoms of Grave’s disease include anxiety, irritability, and excessive sweating.

Goiter

A goiter is a medical condition that causes your thyroid to swell, usually due to iodine deficiency. Other times, it occurs due to hyperthyroidism (the overproduction of thyroid hormone). Goiters vary in size and severity. Some present few symptoms; others make it difficult to speak and breathe.

Thyroid nodules

Thyroid nodules are small, usually benign growths that develop on your thyroid. In most cases, they present few obvious symptoms. Treatment for thyroid nodules depends on their location, size, and whether or not they’re cancerous.

How are thyroid issues diagnosed?

To diagnose thyroid issues, Dr. Ochaney reviews your medical history, asks about your symptoms and lifestyle, and conducts a physical exam. He then orders several tests to evaluate your thyroid’s function, including:

  • Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
  • T4: Thyroxine
  • FT4: Free T4 or free thyroxine
  • T3: Triiodothyronine
  • FT3: Free T3 or free triiodothyronine

These tests can’t diagnose a specific thyroid issue, but they can help Dr. Ochaney pinpoint certain thyroid-related abnormalities.

How are thyroid issues treated?

Treatment for thyroid issues depends on your age, the severity of your symptoms, and their effect on your quality of life. Following a comprehensive exam, Dr. Ochaney might recommend:

  • Antithyroid drugs
  • Radioactive iodine
  • Beta-blockers
  • Surgery

If your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, Dr. Ochaney might prescribe thyroid replacement medication. These drugs add thyroid hormones back into your body, allowing you to live a normal, active life.

To learn more about treatment for thyroid issues, request a consultation at the practice of Mahesh S. Ochaney, MD Call the office, or book an appointment online today.