Feeling unusually tired and struggling with unexplained weight gain? These could be symptoms of an underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism. Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that produces hormones to regulate your metabolism. When it doesn’t produce enough hormones, your body’s processes slow down, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and even depression.
1. What Causes Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism can be caused by several factors, such as:
- Autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, where the immune system attacks the thyroid.
- Thyroid surgery or radiation therapy, which can damage the thyroid gland.
- Iodine deficiency, although this is rare in places like Singapore, where iodine is commonly found in foods.
- Medications, particularly those used to treat other medical conditions like heart disease or mental health disorders.
If you suspect you may have a thyroid problem, it’s important to seek help from a specialist who can accurately diagnose and treat the condition.
2. When to See a Thyroid Doctor in Singapore
If you’re dealing with persistent fatigue, weight changes, or other symptoms like cold intolerance, dry skin, or hair loss, consulting a thyroid doctor Singapore is essential. These professionals are experienced in diagnosing thyroid conditions through blood tests that measure hormone levels and imaging tests to examine the gland itself.
Thyroid doctors may recommend medications such as levothyroxine to replace missing thyroid hormones. With proper treatment, most patients see significant improvements in energy levels, weight, and overall well-being.
3. Thyroid and ENT Specialists: Working Together
In some cases, thyroid issues may also affect other areas, such as the throat. Since the thyroid is located near your windpipe, enlargement or nodules on the gland could interfere with swallowing or cause a visible lump in the neck. This is where an ear nose throat specialist in Singapore can come in. An ENT specialist may collaborate with your thyroid doctor to assess any complications related to the throat, such as difficulty swallowing, a hoarse voice, or breathing issues.
Thyroid nodules are often discovered during an ENT examination, as these specialists are skilled in evaluating any changes around the thyroid and windpipe. If necessary, an ENT specialist may perform a biopsy to check for thyroid cancer or other abnormalities.
4. Why Treatment is Important
Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to several complications, including:
- Heart problems like high cholesterol and heart disease
- Mental health issues such as depression or memory problems
- Infertility and menstrual irregularities
- Goiter, an enlarged thyroid that can cause difficulty swallowing or breathing
Thankfully, with the right care from a thyroid doctor and possibly an ENT specialist, hypothyroidism is easily manageable. Your doctor will monitor your thyroid function and adjust your treatment as needed to ensure you’re feeling your best.
Conclusion
If you’re tired, gaining weight, or experiencing other unusual symptoms, don’t overlook the possibility of a thyroid issue. Consulting a thyroid doctor in Singapore and, when necessary, working with an ear nose throat specialist Singapore can help you get the right diagnosis and treatment, ensuring you regain your energy and health.
Global ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) Devices Market was valued US$ 18.2 Bn in 2017 and is estimated to reach US$ 26.5 Bn by 2026 at a CAGR of about 5.5% during a forecast period.
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