Thyroid Symptoms

Is It My Thyroid?

Thyroid disorders occurs when the thyroid produces too much (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism) hormone.

Unfortunately, thyroid disease symptoms can be mistaken for another disease or even aging. According to the American Thyroid Association, more than 20 million Americans have thyroid disease, and many do not realize it.

The University of Maryland Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology (UM CDE) specializes in diagnosing and treating all thyroid diseases, including hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer.

A Small Gland With Huge Significance

Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower part of the neck. It produces the necessary hormones that help your body control heart rate, blood pressure, metabolism and temperature. Just as there are different types of thyroid conditions, there are a variety of symptoms associated with thyroid disease.

Hyperthyroidism symptoms can include:

• Increased appetite
• Irritability or anxiety
• Racing heartbeat
• Reduce menstrual blood flow in women
• Sweating
• Tremors (shakiness)
• Unintentional weight loss
• Increase heat intolerance

Hypothyroidism symptoms can include:

• Constipation
• Excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding in women
• Fluid retention, feeling bloated, puffiness in the face
• Mental fogginess
• Thinning hair or hair loss
• Weight gain
• Fatigue

When in Doubt, Get Tested and Treated

If you experience any of these symptoms, check with your doctor about being tested for thyroid disorder. A simple blood test can help to determine if you have hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

"UM CDE provides hormone tests to help diagnose and manage all thyroid disorders. Our team considers your particular diagnosis as well as your age, general health and past medical issues," Kashif Munir, MD, the director of the Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology explains.

Thyroid diseases are life-long conditions. With careful management, people with thyroid disease can live healthy lives.

For more information or to get tested for thyroid disease, contact UM Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology at 443-682-6800.

Location

UM Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology at UMMC Midtown Campus
827 Linden Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21210