Thyroid

What does the thyroid do?

Positioned at the base of your neck, the thyroid constitutes a vital component of your endocrine system, producing hormones crucial for regulating your body's metabolism.

When the thyroid overproduces or underproduces hormones, it can lead to thyroid dysfunction or disease. Dr. Neophytou possesses extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating various thyroid-related conditions.

What are some common thyroid-related health issues? 

• Thyroid nodules, benign growths on the thyroid gland that may enlarge over time, typically attributed to Hashimoto's thyroiditis or iodine deficiency. While blood tests offer initial indications, additional assessments like thyroid ultrasound or biopsy may be recommended for comprehensive diagnosis. Dr. Neophytou specializes in conducting ultrasound examinations of the Thyroid, utilizing advanced methodologies including quantitative Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) for assessing Thyroid Nodules.

• Thyroid cancer, characterized by uncontrolled cell division and potential spread to surrounding tissues. While symptoms may not initially manifest, later stages often entail neck pain or swelling.

• Hyperthyroidism, marked by excessive hormone production, with symptoms such as nervousness and irritability.

• Hypothyroidism, a chronic condition resulting in decreased hormone output, presenting symptoms like fatigue and weight gain.

• Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder prompting the body to attack the thyroid, leading most of the times to Hypothyroidism.

• Grave's disease, another autoimmune condition targeting the thyroid, prevalent among women and influenced by factors like pregnancy and stress.

• Goiters, enlargements of the thyroid gland, more prevalent in women over 40, sometimes causing breathing or swallowing difficulties.

  
  

How is thyroid disorder diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves physical examination, health history review, symptom inquiry. Additionally, blood tests measuring hormone levels, including TSH, T4, FT4, T3, and FT3, TRAb, TPOAb, TgAb provide valuable insights for further evaluation.

While blood tests offer initial indications, additional assessments like thyroid ultrasound or biopsy may be recommended for comprehensive diagnosis.