Though the thyroid is a relatively small gland located at the base of the throat, it can cause big disruptions in a person’s health, leading to the need to consult a primary care physician. The thyroid gland produces hormones involved in governing a person's metabolism. Problems with the thyroid can cover a wide gamut of issues and the symptoms can often be mistaken for other illnesses or conditions.
Although the thyroid is part of the endocrine system, an endocrinologist is not the only type of physician who can diagnose thyroid problems. In fact, primary care doctors are often the first line of defense and in many cases, can often manage thyroid issues themselves without the added need of specialists.
The most common disorders of the thyroid are hypothyroidism (underactive production of thyroid hormones so the body becomes sluggish), and hyperthyroidism (overactive hormone production, which can cause cardiac acceleration and weight loss). A patient may also have a goiter or nodules, when part of the thyroid gland becomes inflamed leading to coughing and difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Thyroid cancer can kill normally functioning thyroid cells and form tumors. Hashimoto’s is a more difficult condition in which the body’s immune system itself attacks the thyroid.
The hormones produced by the thyroid gland influence all of the metabolic processes in the body. It is no small wonder then that the symptoms of a thyroid disorder can be confused with other issues. Here are some of the things a patient may be experiencing:
From looking at these symptoms, it is easy to see why they could be mistaken for several other issues. Luckily, there are specific tests a primary care physician can do to diagnose a thyroid disorder correctly.
Rising or falling TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) levels are normal to a point, so determining whether they are higher or lower than the normal range can help diagnose disorders. A TSH test can measure the amount of T4 (thyroxine) the thyroid is being signaled to produce. A T4 blood test can also help a primary care physician decide whether the thyroid is functioning normally. These tests are often referred to as a thyroid panel.
There are other considerations besides symptoms and blood tests. These include such things as a patient’s health in general or having a family history of thyroid disorders. Previous surgery or radiation could cause symptoms as well. The doctor can also check any other medications a patient is taking to see if they could cause similar problems.
Many thyroid disorders and diseases can be treated with medications, surgery or radiation. A primary care physician can help regulate most conditions with these treatments, and normal function may resume with proper management.
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