Through the hormone it produces, the thyroid influences almost all of the important processes in your body, including breathing, heart rate, digestion and temperature. These systems fluctuate depending on the amount of thyroid hormone being secreted. Problems occur if the thyroid makes too much or too little hormone. When functioning improperly, the thyroid can cause a range of problems, including drastic changes to your weight, energy, digestion or mood.
Temple Simpson, MPAS, PA-C, an endocrinology PA at Magnolia Endocrinology, recommends seeing an endocrinology provider when you’re first diagnosed with a thyroid disorder to review and understand your condition, your test results, and your treatment plan. “Patients benefit from an endocrinology visit to ensure their diagnosis is accurate, and the treatment plan will achieve maximum resolution of symptoms,” says Temple Simpson. “We opened Magnolia Endocrinology to provide rapid access to an endocrinology provider as well as the benefits provided by our advanced treatment technologies. We believe that listening to the patient is an important component of our highly experienced team’s successful outcomes.”
It may also be prudent to see an endocrinologist when your symptoms do not resolve despite treatment. If you've been taking medication to replace your thyroid hormone for over a year, but your symptoms continue unabated, it is time to make an appointment with an endocrinologist. “Patients should advocate for themselves and seek a second opinion with a specialist when a treatment plan is not providing relief,” sharing Kimberly Pugh, M.D., F.A.C.E., Magnolia Endocrinology. “Some patients have a more difficult time finding the combination or concentration of thyroid hormone medication that works best. In these situations, an endocrinology specialist can help."
We recommend seeing an endocrinologist for these additional concerns if:
1. You have a new lump, nodule, or other growth on your thyroid. Patients should have an endocrinologist examine the area.
2. Your thyroid gland is enlarged and becomes a goiter.
3. Your pituitary gland is affected. This gland controls your body’s production of thyroid hormone. “Your pituitary gland sits at the base of the brain - located essentially between your ears. Sometimes, it fails to stimulate hormone-producing organs to release their assigned hormone. This can create a complicated picture. You should see an endocrinologist immediately for next steps,” says John Schenck, M.D., F.A.C.E, Magnolia Endocrinology.
4. You have a thyroid disorder and are trying to conceive. An endocrinologist should monitor your thyroid hormone medication treatment closely. “Many women need up to 50 percent more thyroid hormone while pregnant. The risk of miscarriage increases with untreated hypothyroidism. Working with an endocrinologist during pregnancy can ensure the health of both mom and baby,” says Amy Turner, MPAS, PA-C, Magnolia Endocrinology.
Some common symptoms that can perpetuate if you have untreated or improperly treated hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism include:
- Feelings of anxiousness
- Mood swings/Depression
- Exhaustion/Fatigue
- Difficulty regulating body temperature (i.e., feeling cold when everyone else feels comfortable or feeling hot and sweaty all of the time)
- An enlarged thyroid causing difficulty swallowing
- Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
- Constipation or Diarrhea
- Difficulty Sleeping
- Shaking in hands and fingers
- Changes in your menstrual cycle
- Dry skin and hair loss
- Rapid or slower heart rate
Most symptoms related to thyroid problems can be managed if properly diagnosed and treated. For further information or to schedule a rapid endocrinology appointment, call (854) 201-3636 or submit your request for an appointment on https://magnoliaendocrinology.com/contact/. We look forward to serving you!