Your thyroid is a gland that sits in your throat and is part of the endocrine system. It secrets thyroid hormones that are essential to your body’s functioning. For instance, your digestion, energy, and mood are affected by your thyroid gland.
Any issues with your thyroid gland are bound to cause symptoms that are hard to ignore. It can affect your overall health, and you will most likely feel something is off. Although very common, most people with thyroid conditions cannot attribute their symptoms to their thyroid, as they are easily confused with other conditions. This is particularly true for young adults who may feel a variety of symptoms due to lifestyle choices, eating habits, stress, and more. The best way to get an accurate diagnosis for a thyroid issue is through testing done through a doctor.
Here are the most common thyroid conditions found in young adults:
Hyperthyroidism
This thyroid disorder is characterized by an overactive thyroid gland, which means the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormones. This disorder is more common in women than in men. Some reasons that cause hyperthyroidism are nodules on the thyroid gland that can cause the overproduction of hormones and an autoimmune condition called Graves’ disease. Hyperthyroidism has a strong genetic component and runs in families.
Hyperthyroidism causes symptoms such as:
- Excessive energy
- Restlessness
- Nervousness
- Anxiety
- Racing heart
- Irritability
- Excessive sweating
- Shaking and jitters
- Increased fidgeting
- Sleep issues
- Thin skin
- Brittle hair and nails
- Muscle weakness
- Weight loss
- Bulging eyes
- Light menstrual flow or missed periods
Hypothyroidism
Another common thyroid condition is hypothyroidism, which means the thyroid produces too little thyroid hormones. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- Fatigue
- Dry skin
- Cold sensitivity
- Forgetfulness
- Constipation
- Depression
- Weight gain especially in the face
- Weakness
- Slow heart rate
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland
Hashimoto’s Disease
Also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, Hashimoto’s disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. This condition causes your immune system to attack your thyroid. The thyroid gland will become inflamed and irritated. Eventually, the thyroid gland will be unable to function well and produce the thyroid hormones necessary for bodily functions. Symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease include dry skin, constipation, a goiter, and a hoarse voice. Hormone replacement therapy is usually the treatment recommended for patients with Hashimoto’s disease.
Treatment for Thyroid Conditions in Denton and Frisco, Texas
If you suspect you have a thyroid issue, seek treatment as soon as possible.
At Star Medical Associates, we provide health and wellness services to our patients in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our medical services include disease management and prevention and wellness. Our compassionate team, led by Dr. Rani Anbarasu, MD, PA., believes in establishing long-term relationships built on trust and respect to better help you achieve optimal health.
To learn more about our services, call the Star Medical Associates in Denton at (940) 382-6900 or in Frisco at (469) 301-2300. You may also request an appointment now. We welcome you to both facilities!
