
Thyroid Disease is Common and Underdiagnosed: Learn About Common Warning Signs

About 20 million Americans have a thyroid disorder. It’s one of the most common endocrine conditions — but it’s also underdiagnosed. As many as 60% of people with a thyroid disorder don’t know they have it, and an untreated thyroid condition can impact your health in several ways.
Your thyroid gland sits at the base of your neck, producing hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and other essential bodily functions. Thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism interfere with this hormone production, and they each present distinct symptoms.
Our team at Endocrine Associates of West Village specializes in diagnosing and treating thyroid disorders, and we’re here to help you understand them and recognize their warning signs so you can maintain optimal health.
Hypothyroidism: recognizing the signs of an underactive thyroid
Hypothyroidism develops when your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to a slowdown in bodily processes. It’s the most common type of thyroid disease, and common symptoms include:
- Persistent fatigue despite adequate rest
- Unexplained weight gain
- Increased sensitivity to cold temperatures
- Dry or brittle skin and hair
- Depression
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Constipation
The symptoms of hypothyroidism often develop gradually, making them easy to overlook or attribute to other causes.
Hyperthyroidism: recognizing the signs of an overactive thyroid
Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of thyroid hormones, accelerating bodily functions. Symptoms can include:
- Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
- Unexplained weight loss
- Increased sensitivity to warm temperatures, sometimes with excessive sweating
- Rapid heartbeat, palpitations, or irregular heartbeats
- Nervousness or anxiety
- Tremors in your hands or fingers
- Muscle weakness, particularly in your upper arms or thighs
Like the symptoms of hypothyroidism, these signs can come on slowly and make it difficult to recognize that what you’re experiencing might be hyperthyroidism.
How to manage thyroid disease
If any of the above symptoms sound familiar, it’s important to see a doctor for a thyroid evaluation. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can lead to potentially serious health complications if left untreated, but proactive management helps protect your health and keep you feeling your best.
At Endocrine Associates of West Village, we offer comprehensive endocrine assessments to evaluate your thyroid function and diagnose thyroid disease. If we identify a condition like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, we work with you to treat it.
We typically treat hypothyroidism with daily thyroid hormone replacement therapy to restore normal hormone levels. Hyperthyroidism may require medications to reduce hormone production, radioactive iodine therapy, or, in some cases, surgery to remove part or all of your thyroid gland.
Along the way, we provide ongoing support, regularly check your thyroid function, and adjust your treatment plan to help you effectively manage your thyroid health.
Are you experiencing warning signs of a thyroid disorder? Don't hesitate to contact us — we’re here to help you find answers so you can start feeling better. Book online now or call one of our office locations in Brooklyn, Long Island City, and New York, New York.
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