The thyroid gland is located in the anterior part of the neck. It moves up or down with swallowing, but we don’t feel it. In fact it is located in front of our voice box and the soft tissue around it is our thyroid.
Thyroid disorders are divided into different categories:
- Over secretion of thyroid hormone is called “Hyperthyroidism.” This is mainly due to Graves’ disease in which all of the thyroid gland becomes overactive. It can be associated with other features; the main one affects the eyes and is called Graves’ ophthalmopathy (eye disease) in which the eyes can become dry and itchy, the eye lids can swell up, the white section of the eyes can become red due to the inflammation. In severe cases, the eyes can bulge out of the eye sockets and rarely it can lead to blindness. Hyperthyroidism can lead to serious health effects if not treated properly.
- Under secretion of thyroid hormone “Hypothyroidism.” This occurs usually due to Hashimoto thyroiditis. It is more common in women and on occasions can affect several members of the same family.
- Anatomical: In which the thyroid gland shape can change due to a benign growth (adenoma or cyst) or a malignant growth.
Endocrinologists utilize different radiological methods and lab evaluation and if needed biopsies to differentiate between the above disorders. We work with your primary care provider and if needed would refer you to the proper surgery expert.