Hypothyroidism
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Elise M. Brett, MD, PC
Endocrinologists & Diabetes Specialists located in Upper East Side, New York, NY
If you’re always tired, cold, and can’t seem to lose weight no matter what you do, you might have hypothyroidism. At Elise M. Brett, MD, PC, in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, Dr. Brett, a board-certified and fellowship-trained endocrinologist, provides expert testing and treatment for hypothyroidism to restore your health and wellness. Call the New York City office or schedule a consultation online today.
Hypothyroidism Q & A
What is hypothyroidism?
Your thyroid is a small, delicate, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of your throat. It’s also a hormonal powerhouse producing the hormones that regulate everything from your metabolism to your sex drive.
A hypoactive thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroxine (T4) pr triiodothyronine (T3), which impacts many aspects of your well-being.
Many factors contribute to hypothyroidism. For example, autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can damage your thyroid and interfere with hormone production.
You may develop hypothyroidism as a result of overtreatment for hyperthyroidism, including radiation and surgical treatments. In addition, thyroid tumors, nodules, and problems with your pituitary gland can also cause hypothyroidism.
What are the signs of hypothyroidism?
Your thyroid affects nearly every function in your body. As a result, an underactive thyroid causes a variety of disruptive symptoms, including:
- Weight gain or trouble losing weight
- Fatigue
- Sensitivity to cold
- Dry skin
- Constipation
- Puffy face
- High cholesterol
- Muscle aches and tenderness
- Painful, stiff joints
- Heavy menstrual periods
- Thinning hair
- Depression
- Reduced memory
- Goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)
These symptoms may develop slowly and are easy to dismiss as signs of aging. However, you know your body and if you think that something is wrong, contact Dr. Brett for an appointment today.
How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?
Dr. Brett performs standard-of-care diagnosis of hypothyroidism, including comprehensive blood tests to check your hormone levels. She may also order imaging tests like an ultrasound to examine your thyroid for abnormalities such as enlarged thyroid or nodules.
How is hypothyroidism treated?
Dr. Brett provides customized treatments for hypothyroidism. The standard approach to treatment is prescribing synthetic thyroid hormones. She offers all forms of thyroid replacement to meet your preferences.
Dr. Brett can also help you adjust your lifestyle to support healthy thyroid function and reduce the weight gain and high cholesterol issues that are common with hypothyroidism.
If you’re concerned about your thyroid function, call Elise M. Brett, MD, PC or make an appointment online today for expert assessment and treatment.
