Thyroid Disorders in Nashville, IN

The thyroid gland is an important part of the endocrine system and is located in the neck. It helps regulate our bodies, including how we process and use nutrients from food, our heart rates, and other functions. When the thyroid gland produces an oversupply or insufficient amount of hormones, it can disrupt the chemical balance within your body. Left untreated, thyroid disorders can have a significant impact on your health. Blue Elk Family Clinic treats thyroid disorders hypothyroidism (low hormone production), hyperthyroidism (high hormone production), thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions for patients in and around Nashville, IN. If you have symptoms of an overactive or underactive thyroid or other thyroid problems, we encourage you to schedule an in-office visit with our expert physician, Dr. Larry Sanchez.

At Blue Elk Family Clinic, thyroid disorders are something we take very seriously. Thyroid conditions can impact many aspects of your health and can be difficult to treat and diagnose. For this reason, we utilize top-of-the-line lab testing and expert evaluation to recommend the best medications, lifestyle modifications, and dietary changes for your personal condition. The first step is a personal consultation during which Dr. Sanchez will test your blood for abnormal chemical levels and review your medical history to determine the most likely cause for your thyroid condition. Then, he will communicate the optimum treatments for you and may schedule follow-up visits.

What are the symptoms of a thyroid disorder?
Some of the most common symptoms of thyroid issues include:

• Unexplained weight gain
• Brain fog and/or recall problems
• Digestive issues
• Changes in vision
• Hair loss
• Muscle or joint pain
• A swollen neck or lymph nodes
• Bowel troubles
• Menstrual changes or abnormalities
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Weakness and/or tingling in the arms, wrists, or hands

What is the difference between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism? How are they treated differently?
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not make enough of the thyroid hormones to your normal metabolism, while hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid is overactive, makes too many hormones, and causes your metabolism to speed up too much. Hypothyroidism is typically treated with medication that includes thyroid hormones, while hyperthyroidism is usually managed with medicine to slow down the thyroid gland.

What happens if thyroid issues go untreated?
Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to severe issues, including heart disease and nerve damage. In some circumstances, it can be fatal. Hyperthyroidism can also lead to heart issues, stroke, and vision issues.

Maintaining proper thyroid function can make a tremendous difference in your health. If you are suffering fatigue, mood swings, changes in appetite, or anxiety, it's important to get checked out to see if you might be experiencing a thyroid disorder. Call Dr. Larry Sanchez at our Nashville, IN location, and let Blue Elk Family Clinic serve you today.