A thyroid disorder affects the function of your thyroid gland, a gland in the front of your neck that helps regulate your metabolic rate and how your body converts food into energy. It creates hormones that help your heart, brain, liver, muscles and other parts of your body function — including reproductive functions in both men and women.
Thyroid disorders can affect your energy level, weight, mood, concentration, fertility, and sleep patterns. Types of thyroid disorders include:
- Goiter: an enlargement of the thyroid gland
- Graves’ disease: an overproduction of thyroid hormones caused by an immune system disorder
- Hyperthyroidism: the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, which causes an extremely high metabolism
- Hypothyroidism: the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, which causes a very slow metabolism
- Thyroid cancer
- Thyroiditis: swelling of the thyroid gland
- Thyroid nodules: abnormal lumps or masses in the thyroid
Our experienced endocrinologists design a treatment plan that gives you the best possible results. We use the least-invasive approaches available to help you feel better faster. You work with a team that makes sure you’re well-informed about your condition and how it’s treated.
Tests
Blood Tests
Blood tests measure the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine, another thyroid hormone, to diagnose thyroid disorders.
Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test
This test is used to find out the cause of an overactive thyroid. Your thyroid uses iodine to create hormones. You receive a tiny amount of radioactive iodine, either as a pill or intravenously (through an IV), which allows your doctor to measure how much iodine your thyroid absorbs.
Thyroid Scan
This imaging exam is also used to find the cause of an overactive thyroid. You receive an injection of a radioactive substance and specialized imaging equipment creates a picture of your thyroid. This test is sometimes performed as part of the radioactive iodine test.
Treatments
Medicines
Your doctor may prescribe a medicine to help regulate thyroid hormone levels, such as beta blockers for hyperthyroidism or thyroid hormone replacement therapy for hypothyroidism. The type of medicine depends on your condition and symptoms.
Radioactive Iodine
Radioactive iodine, taken as a pill, can treat hyperthyroidism by shrinking your thyroid gland and relieving symptoms. The treatment usually takes between three and six months. This treatment slows down your thyroid function and may cause hypothyroidism, so you may need to take medicine to restore normal thyroid function.
Surgery
If your condition requires surgery, our surgeons use advanced, minimally invasive techniques that require only a tiny incision, including robotic-assisted surgery. A smaller incision means there's minimal scarring, less pain, and a faster recovery. Our surgeons have the expertise to perform all types of thyroid surgeries, including the most complex procedures.
Why Choose UHealth?
The latest, research-backed treatments. As an academic medical center, we leverage the latest research completed by the nationally recognized University of Miami Miller School of Medicine to offer the latest treatments — including promising new approaches through clinical trials. You benefit from medical advancements before they’re widely available, provided by leading endocrinology experts who are known worldwide for their expertise. Our doctors and researchers are on the leading edge of technology and treatments for endocrine disorders.
A comprehensive, team approach to thyroid disorders. Our endocrinologists work closely with surgeons, fertility specialists, oncologists, nuclear medicine specialists, ophthalmologists, dietitians, and other health care professionals to provide complete care. We address all aspects of your condition to improve your health and well-being.
Customized care that helps you take control of your health. Thyroid disorders often require ongoing management, so we consider your lifestyle and needs to develop a treatment plan that’s right for you. We make sure you have the information and resources to manage your health. And, with locations throughout South Florida, you can find expert care close to home.