Elys Perez, M.D.
Learn About Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
September 6, 2023 – The thyroid gland may be small, but it is essential to the human body. According to the American Thyroid Association, the hormones produced by the thyroid gland impact the tissues, cells and organs in our body.
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that controls many aspects of the body’s metabolism. It produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolic rate controlling heart, muscle and digestive function, brain development and bone maintenance.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. Unexpected weight loss, bouts of energy that eventually lead to fatigue and exhaustion, increased heart rate, hand tremors, and anxiety are some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Conversely, when too little thyroid hormone is produced hypothyroidism ensues, which can lead to weight gain, cold intolerance, fatigue, poor concentration, and depression.
According to Elys Perez, M.D., an endocrinologist with the Broward Health Physician Group, community surveys have shown that the prevalence of hypothyroidism varies anywhere from 0.1-2%, with higher frequency in older women. Hypothyroidism is five to eight times more common in women than men. The prevalence of hyperthyroidism is about 1.3% for the general population and it increases to 4-5% in older women.
“In the United States the most common cause of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism is autoimmune, meaning there are antibodies present that attack thyroid tissue,” Dr. Perez said. “This attack over time damages the thyroid and makes it either underactive or overactive.”
If left untreated for a long time, an out-of-balance thyroid, whether overactive or underactive, can cause multiple metabolic complications that can lead to end organ damage. “However, when these conditions are treated accordingly these complications can be prevented,” Dr. Perez said.
Hypothyroidism can usually be managed by taking an oral synthetic thyroid hormone. Overactive thyroid treatments typically include antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine and, in select cases, surgery.
When it comes to managing thyroid disease, it’s important to take prescribed medication as directed. Not doing so can adversely affect the metabolism and lead to multiple multiorgan disfunction over time.
“What patients can do to maintain normal thyroid function is take prescribed medications daily and maintain regular follow-up appointments with their physician to monitor thyroid levels and ensure they are within range,” said Dr. Perez.
When to Test for Thyroid Imbalance
A thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test measures hormone levels in the blood and determines if the thyroid gland is working properly. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain and instructs the thyroid to produce and release thyroid hormones into the blood.
Dr. Perez cautions that thyroid function should only be checked when there are convincing symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
“Testing in the absence of symptoms can lead to unnecessary treatments, as thyroid function can fluctuate during periods of stress and illness which is a normal response,” Dr. Perez said. “Furthermore, TSH can increase with age, so it is important to have any abnormal test interpreted by an experienced endocrinologist.”
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Perez, call 954-831-2760 or visit browardhealth.org.