Philip Rabito, MD, is a leading endocrinologist and thyroid specialist in NYC with over 20 years of experience in treating endocrine and hormonal disorders, including thyroid diseases.
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck responsible for producing hormones that control metabolism. Abnormalities in the thyroid gland are quite common affecting up to 5% of the general population. Even subtle imbalances in thyroid hormone levels can lead to symptoms, such as weight gain, fatigue, muscle aches, constipation and depression. The cause of these symptoms may go unexplained for years unless your physician considers the thyroid as the potential cause, and orders the appropriate diagnostic tests.
HYPOTHYROIDISM: usually an autoimmune condition in which the thyroid is not producing enough thyroid hormone to support the body’s metabolism. Untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to an increase risk of heart disease. The most common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism are:
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Dry skin
- Elevated cholesterol
- Irregular menstruation
- Impaired memory and concentration
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Joint pains
- Muscle aches
- Slow heart rate
- Hair loss
- Brittle nails
- Enlarged thyroid gland
HYPERTHYROIDISM: condition in which the thyroid produces abnormally high levels of thyroid hormone, creating a hypermetabolic state. The causes of an overactive thyroid can be infection, as is the case with subacute thyroiditis, autoimmune disease from Grave’s disease, and toxic thyroid nodules. Hyperthyroidism, if left untreated, can eventually lead to osteoporosis and cardiac abnormalities, including an enlarged heart and irregular heart rhythm.
The most common signs and symptoms seen in hyperthyroidism are:
- Anxiety and/or hyperactivity
- Tremor
- Palpitations
- Weight loss
- Rapid heart rate
- Sensitivity to heat and excessive
- Sweating
- Bulging eyes
- Insomnia
- Frequent bowel movements
- Irregular menstruation
- Enlarged thyroid gland
In addition to hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland is also subject to structural abnormalities. The thyroid can become enlarged, a condition known as goiter, which may lead to difficulty swallowing, breathing and voice hoarseness.
Lumps, or nodules, can also develop on the thyroid gland. These nodules can be benign or cancerous. Thyroid cancer is the fastest growing malignancy, and it is extremely curable when detected in its early stages. Therefore, it is imperative to have a thyroid specialist inspect and monitor your thyroid nodules to assess the ongoing risk of cancer.
If you are experiencing a thyroid disorder, contact the foremost endocrinologist and thyroid specialist in NYC—Philip Rabito, MD—for evaluation and treatment. Contact our office for more information.
