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Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid Disorders

At Utah Endocrinology Associates, we specialize in treating all thyroid conditions and disorders. Alireza Falahati, MD, FACE, and our team of experts are committed to providing the highest level of care for your thyroid health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does the Thyroid Do?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck, just above the collarbone. As part of the endocrine system, the thyroid plays a crucial role in regulating your metabolism, which affects heart function, muscle control, digestion, brain development, and bone maintenance. 

 

When the thyroid doesn’t produce the correct amount of hormone, it can disrupt many of the body’s systems and lead to thyroid disease. Both Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism  can range from mild to life-threatening and require proper diagnosis and care.

Hypothyroidism (Low Functioning Thyroid Conditions)

  • Hashimoto’s
  • Goiter and Thyroid Nodules
  • Postsurgical Hypothyroidism
  • Postablative Hypothryoidism
  • Subclinical Hypothyroidism
  • Central Hypothyroidism
  • Iodine Deficiency

Hyperthyroidism (High Functioning Thyroid Conditions)

  • Graves Disease
  • Toxic Nodules
  • Thyroiditis
  • Postpartum Thyroiditis
  • Subclinical Hyperthyroidism

Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid) occurs when the thyroid produces too little hormone, slowing down your metabolism and common symptoms include:

 

  • Fatigue or Sluggishness
  • Depression or mood changes
  • Cold intolerance
  • Dry skin or hair
  • Constipation
  • Memory problems
  • Weight gain
  • Slow heart rate
  • Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (most common) – autoimmune destruction of the thyroid
  • Iodine deficiency – rare in the U.S., but still possible
  • Thyroid removal or ablation – surgical or chemical treatment
  • Thyroiditis – inflammation leading to reduced function
  • Congenital hypothyroidism – underactive thyroid from birth
  • Certain medications – especially lithium

Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid) occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. It can speed up your metabolism and cause a range of symptoms including:

  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Anxiety or irratability
  • Heat intolerance
  • Weight loss
  • Insomnia
  • Tremors
  • Darrhea
  • Hair thinning or brittle nails
  • Bulging eyes (in some cases)
 

What Are some Common Causes of Hyperthyroidism?

  • Graves’ disease (most common) – an autoimmune disorder where the thyroid overproduces hormone
  • Toxic adenomas – nodules that produce excess hormones
  • Thyroiditis – inflammation causing hormone leakage
  • Pituitary gland dysfunction – abnormal signaling to the thyroid
  • Excess iodine – from medication or exposure
  • Thyroid cancer – may alter hormone levels
 
  • Graves’ disease (most common) – an autoimmune disorder where the thyroid overproduces hormone
  • Toxic adenomas – nodules that produce excess hormones
  • Thyroiditis – inflammation causing hormone leakage
  • Pituitary gland dysfunction – abnormal signaling to the thyroid
  • Excess iodine – from medication or exposure
  • Thyroid cancer – may alter hormone levels

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