A special, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, your thyroid helps regulate lots of bodily processes – like your heartbeat and temperature. Unfortunately, an imbalance of hormones can cause problems, affecting sleep, energy, temperature sensitivity, mood swings, swelling in the thyroid area and weight concerns. Here are some warning signs that something may be wrong with your thyroid, and advice about when to seek help from a thyroid specialist.
1) You’re on medication, which isn’t improving symptoms
If your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, it’s called hypothyroidism. Too much, and it’s hyperthyroidism. You might be prescribed medication to try and correct this, but it doesn’t always ‘work’. That’s because it’s a difficult balance to get right, and your body might not be responding to the drugs. If you’re not seeing an improvement from your medication, get in touch with a thyroid specialist
2) You have a lump or nodule
Any growth should be investigated by an expert, especially if you’re concerned. While lots of lumps can be benign and harmless, others could be a sign of cancer – or could cause hypothyroidism in the future. It might be recommended for the lump to be removed (thyroid surgery). If this is the case, you’ll be taken through every step of the treatment needed.
3) Your thyroid seems swollen
Again, this could be a sign of thyroid problems and is worth getting checked out. It might be that the thyroid gland is removed (thyroid surgery) to prevent symptoms from reoccurring. Swelling in the area shouldn’t be confused with lumps or nodules, but in either case, see a thyroid expert for advice.
4) You’re pregnant or trying for a baby
Thyroid hormones can affect your ability to conceive, so if your thyroid over or under-produces them, it’s recommended to see an expert. If it’s found you have hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism and need medication, it might also affect whether or not you can try for a baby.
Get advice from an expert
Still unsure about what to do about your thyroid? Concerned you might have hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism? Then we can help. Get in touch with our Harley Street thyroid specialist to arrange an appointment, where you’ll get to meet Jon and learn how he can help. If you decide on treatment with us, like thyroid surgery, we’ll share everything you need to know about treatment so you can make an informed and confident decision. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Have any queries or concerns about our Thyroid treatment? Contact us today via our booking page or call us on 020 3897 0667 and one of our team in Maidstone will be delighted to help you.