Understanding your thyroid health can be a complex task. The thyroid, a small gland in your neck, plays a significant role in your overall health by controlling the rate of many activities in your body. But what happens when it starts to malfunction? Dr. Richard Fox, a board-certified general surgeon at Alpine Surgical, sheds light on the symptoms of two common thyroid disorders: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism: When Your Thyroid Works Overtime

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where your thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. According to Dr. Fox, this can accelerate your body’s metabolism, causing unintentional weight loss and a rapid or irregular heartbeat.

Common symptoms of Hyperthyroidism include:

  • Sweating and sensitivity to heat
  • Anxiety and irritability
  • Tremor in your hands and fingers
  • Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
  • Changes in menstrual patterns

Hypothyroidism: When Your Thyroid Slows Down

On the other end of the spectrum is hypothyroidism, a condition where your thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. Dr. Fox notes that this condition can cause your body’s processes to slow down, leading to symptoms like fatigue and weight gain.

Common symptoms of Hypothyroidism include:

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Increased sensitivity to cold
  • Constipation
  • Dry skin
  • Unexplained weight gain

Diagnosis and Treatment at Alpine Surgical

At Alpine Surgical, Dr. Fox uses a comprehensive patient-centered approach to diagnose and treat thyroid disorders. Diagnosing thyroid disorders often involves a physical exam, blood tests, imaging tests, and sometimes a biopsy. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your condition, and may include medication, radioiodine therapy, or thyroid surgery.

Dr. Fox is a strong advocate for minimally invasive approaches to surgery, making procedures safer and recovery times faster for patients. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of thyroid disorders, don’t hesitate to contact Alpine Surgical at 303-449-3642 to schedule your visit today.

Please note that this is a general overview and is not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate information.