Thyroid & Hormonal Disorders Q & A

Five Stones Healing Arts & Wellness Center

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What is the thyroid?

The thyroid is a gland in your neck that performs the following functions:

• Produces thyroid hormone

• Controls numerous bodily activities (e.g., heart rate and metabolism)
   

Thyroid disorders are more common in women than men, particularly after pregnancy and menopause, and can occur when this gland over- or under-produces hormones. The symptoms of these disorders include rapid weight loss or gain and excessive restlessness or fatigue.

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For normal body functioning, your thyroid gland must produce the appropriate amount of hormones.

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What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a disorder where your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones.

This inadequate hormone production disrupts the normal chemical balance in your body and can lead to the following symptoms:

• Fatigue

• Weight Gain

• Joint pain

• Depression

• Constipation

• Impaired memory

• Slowed heart rate

• Thinning hair and dry skin

• Muscle aching and weakness

• Heightened temperature sensitivity
   

If untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to infertility and heart disease. An advanced case of hypothyroidism is called myxedema and, while rare, is life-threatening.

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What causes hypothyroidism?

A variety of avoidable and unavoidable factors cause hypothyroidism, including:

• Autoimmune diseases

• Radiation therapy

• Thyroid surgery

• Certain medications

• Pregnancy 

• Iodine deficiency
   

What is hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid that produces too much of the hormones that rapidly accelerate your metabolism. Fortunately, there are effective diagnostic methods and several treatments available. 

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The experts at Five Stones Healing Arts & Wellness Center are highly experienced in treating thyroid disorders and helping men and women restore hormonal balance and achieve optimal health.