The Ins and Outs of Thyroid Health
Your thyroid — a small butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck — has an outsized influence on your health. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy, mood, and many other critical body functions. Understanding thyroid health can help you recognize potential problems early and explore the right treatment options.
What Does Your Thyroid Affect?
Thyroid hormones influence nearly every cell in your body. The four key areas most directly affected are:
How to Tell If You Have Thyroid Problems
Because thyroid disorders develop gradually, they can be easy to overlook. Watch for these warning signs:
- Enlarged neck
- Hormone test indicating increased levels
- Increased blood flow to the thyroid
- Lumps or goiters in the neck
- Sore throat
- Tenderness in the neck
- Trouble swallowing
If you notice any of these signs, speak with your healthcare provider. A simple blood test can measure thyroid hormone levels and help diagnose a problem.
Common Thyroid Conditions
Risk Factors for Thyroid Disease & Conditions
Certain factors can increase your likelihood of developing a thyroid disorder. These include:
- Currently pregnant or up to a year after childbirth
- Family history of thyroid disease
- Having an autoimmune disease
- Having part or all of the thyroid removed
- Abnormal iodine levels
- Neck trauma or prior neck surgery
- Being over age 50
- Radiation exposure to the head or neck
- Smoking
- Being female (women are significantly more likely to develop thyroid disease)
Health Conditions Affected by Thyroid Disorders
Left untreated, thyroid disorders can contribute to serious health complications:
Medical Solutions for Thyroid Conditions
Thyroid conditions are highly treatable. Depending on your diagnosis, your provider may recommend one or more of the following approaches:
CareFirst Specialty Pharmacy specializes in compounded thyroid medications, including precise T3/T4 combinations and dosage forms not available commercially. Our pharmacists work closely with your prescriber to customize formulations to your specific needs.