Thyroid Specialist

What is the thyroid? 

The thyroid is a small, bow-tie shaped gland located at the base of your neck. The thyroid is part of the endocrine system which produces and secretes hormones throughout the body.

Hormones serve as chemical messengers that relay information to your various body systems and stimulate them to function normally. Thyroid hormones play a vital role in many body functions, including: 

• Metabolism
• Digestion
• Muscle control
• Bone health
• Body temperature
• Heart rate
• Mood 

Thyroid hormone imbalance is a common problem as you age and is more common in women than men. When your thyroid is underactive or overactive, you may have a wide range of symptoms that significantly impact your overall health.  

What is hypothyroidism?

The most common type of thyroid disease is hypothyroidism, which is an underactive thyroid. With hypothyroidism, the thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Difficulty losing weight
• Dry skin
• Joint pain
• Thinning hair
• Muscle pain and weakness
• Depression
• Sensitivity to cold temperatures

Causes of hypothyroid include Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, other autoimmune disorders, medications, thyroid cancer, or side effects of thyroid radiation.

What is hyperthyroidism?

With hyperthyroidism, your body overproduces thyroid hormones. The most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

• Unexpected weight loss
• Sleep disturbances
• Thinning hair
• Increased heart rate
• Increased appetite
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Sensitivity to heat 

Causes of hyperthyroidism may include autoimmune disease, Grave’s Disease, goiter, or excessive iodine levels. Your primary care provider at Seven Corners Medical Center can diagnosis your thyroid hormone imbalance with a simple blood test and can create a personalized treatment for you.

What is the treatment for thyroid disease? 

Seven Corners Medical Center offers support for your thyroid health with services that include:

• Thyroid hormone testing
• Thyroid hormone medication
• Nutrition counseling 
• Exercise counseling
• Nutritional supplementation
• Weight-loss support
• Annual physical to monitor your health

Dr. George and Dr. Sopko strive to treat your thyroid disorder in a holistic and integrated way, to improve your thyroid hormone levels and your overall sense of wellness and protect your health. 

For a consultation regarding your thyroid health, call the office or schedule an appointment online with Seven Corners Medical Center today.