Endocrine web is written by doctors for
patients and anyone who wants anunderstanding of the function of the
thyroid gland and what
causes dysfunctions of the thyroid and how the dysfunction will effect the patient. Located in the front of the neck, the thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland whose sole function is to regulate the body’s metobism. The most common diseases of the thyroid are those causing a malfunction in the production of hormones(either too little or too much), overgrowth of the thyroid into other nearby structures, the presence of nodules, and cancer.
Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of thyroid
hormone. There are many causes of this condition, but Graves Disease is the most common. Graves Disease effects more women then men. Common treatments for hyperthyroidism are antithyroid medication, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery. Hypothyroidism is underproduction of thyroid hormone. This can be caused by
treatment of hyperthyroidism, cancer, or autoimmune disease. Hormone
replacement therapy is an effective treatment for patients with hypothyroidism once the correct dosage of replacement hormone is reached. Finding the correct levels of replacement hormone can be difficult for some patients, and this can cause them to flip flop between being hypo and hyperthyroid. This site is well arranged and easy to find information. It’s written by doctors for patients, so the language is easy for lay persons to grasp and not get overwhelmed by medical speak. Along with the goals of providing education, the site is equipped to help patients to find a suitable endocrinologist The more uncommon causes of both thyroid conditions are outlined as well as the common ones. An overview of the function of the parathyroid glands is also provided to compliment what is written on the thyroid. All through the site, it’s stressed that the goal of treatment of either condition is the overall well being and health of the patient, and not the presence of normal lab values.
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