When an individual experiences unexpected weight gain, low energy, or mood changes, one of their first impulses might be to question their thyroid function. A gland located in the base of the neck, the thyroid produces hormones necessary for many essential bodily functions.
It is not uncommon to experience some issue with the thyroid during one’s lifetime, says Kevin McKinney, MD, FACE, Chief of the Division of Endocrinology in the Department of Internal Medicine. Thyroid issues will affect one in eight people in the United States at some point in their lives, with women affected at a slightly higher rate.
“Its function can be overactive or underactive. It can become inflamed. Nodules in the thyroid gland are very common, and some of these may even develop cancer,” Dr. McKinney says.
Hormones produced in the thyroid gland support growth, nerve development and maintenance, menstrual cycles, reproduction, and regulation of energy metabolism. Because of these important functions, it’s important that any problems that develop receive timely attention.
If left untreated, thyroid conditions may lead to heart disease, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, infertility, changes in the menstrual cycle, and problems with swallowing, breathing and hoarseness. And although thyroid cancer is more treatable than many other cancers, the risk is still a matter to be taken seriously.
Primary care providers typically screen for thyroid conditions if a patient has experienced changes in mood, energy, bowel habits, temperature sensitivity, and heart function. Treatment can usually begin in primary care. Specialists like Dr. McKinney may be consulted to provide expert advice, helping ensure the best possible treatment.
Members of UTMB’s Endocrinology team, who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of hormonal and metabolic disorders, see patients at the two Stark Diabetes Center locations in Galveston and League City, and the Endocrinology clinic in Angleton. They are equipped to evaluate and manage thyroid conditions, and to coordinate care with other specialists to provide the best solution for each patient’s needs.
Patients with overactive thyroid glands may benefit from medications for long-term control, or from nuclear medicine therapy. For underactive thyroid glands, FDA approved synthetic medications may be prescribed to replace hormones.
Thyroid evaluation with a state-of-the-art ultrasound machine is available on an as-needed basis at the Victory Lakes Town Center location. If the condition requires it, the team will coordinate with Interventional Radiology to conduct ultrasound-guided biopsy of the thyroid gland and associated nodules, and coordinate care with ear, nose, and throat (ENT) physicians if surgery is needed.
“Appropriate correction of abnormal thyroid conditions will lead to the enjoyment of a healthy life. Our physicians can recommend the best approach for patients experiencing these conditions,” Dr. McKinney says.
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