Thyroid disorders are becoming increasingly common in today’s society, affecting millions of people worldwide. This disease is common in Singapore. Whether it’s an underactive thyroid, overactive thyroid, or other thyroid-related issues, seeking specialised care is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. This article emphasises the importance of a specialised thyroid care team in Singapore and explores the details surrounding thyroid disorders.
Understanding Thyroid Disorders
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck. It’s responsible for regulating the body’s metabolism and produces thyroid hormones, which affect various bodily functions, including heart rate, body temperature, weight management, and energy levels. The pituitary gland is located at the centre of the skull below your brain. It’s crucial to monitor and control the levels of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream. Thyroid problems occur when there are imbalanced amounts of thyroid hormones in your bloodstream. When the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones, it leads to hypothyroidism, whereas an excess of hormones results in hyperthyroidism.
Who is Affected by Thyroid Disease?
Thyroid disorders can affect people of all ages. However, certain risk factors may develop these conditions. Women are more prone to thyroid disorders, particularly during pregnancy and menopause, due to hormonal fluctuations. Having a family history of thyroid disease also raises the risk. Genetic factors can contribute to the development of thyroid disorders, indicating a possible inherited predisposition. If a close family member, such as a parent or sibling, has been diagnosed with a thyroid disorder, it increases the likelihood of developing the condition. Additionally, medical conditions can also impact thyroid health. Individuals with illnesses such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus typically have a high chance of getting thyroid issues.
What are the Types and Causes Thyroid Disorders?
There are several types of thyroid disorders, and their causes can vary. Here are some common thyroid types and their associated causes:
1) Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a condition characterised by an overactive thyroid gland. One of the common causes of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease, which is an autoimmune disorder. In Graves’ disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, producing excess thyroid hormones. This condition manifests with various symptoms, such as increased sweating, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), weight loss, protruding eyes, and nervousness.
2) Hypothyroidism
On the other hand, hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid gland. It’s also caused by an autoimmune disorder known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. The difference with Graves’ disease is it causes little thyroid hormone production. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, depression, abnormal bone development, and stunted growth.
3) Thyroid Tumours
Thyroid tumours, or thyroid nodules, are abnormal growths or lumps within the thyroid gland. These nodules can be solid or fluid-filled and occur for various reasons. The causes of this condition are not always clear, but they can be classified as benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Sometimes, it can become overactive and increase the secretion of thyroid hormones, resulting in a condition called toxic adenoma or nodular goitre.
4) Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the thyroid gland grow uncontrollably, forming a malignant tumour. This incidence of thyroid cancer is usually due to exposure to radiation in the head, neck, or chest area. There are several types of thyroid cancer, including papillary thyroid cancer, follicular thyroid cancer, anaplastic thyroid cancer, and medullary thyroid cancer. Fortunately, most cases of thyroid cancer can be successfully treated.
How Does a Thyroid Specialist in Singapore Diagnose Thyroid Disorder?
A thyroid specialist in Singapore typically follows a systematic approach to diagnosing thyroid disorders. Here are the steps involved in the diagnostic process:
1) Blood tests
Blood tests are commonly used to assess the levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the bloodstream. Thyroid hormones include triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Elevated levels of T3 and T4 may indicate hyperthyroidism, while low levels may suggest hypothyroidism. The pituitary gland produces TSH and helps regulate the production of thyroid hormones. An elevated TSH level may indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), whereas a decreased TSH level may suggest an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Blood tests provide valuable insights into the functioning of the thyroid gland and help guide the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disorders.
2) Imaging Tests
Imaging tests such as ultrasound are commonly used to visualise the structure and size of the thyroid gland. An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the thyroid. This non-invasive procedure allows the specialist to examine the thyroid for any abnormalities, such as nodules, cysts, or enlargement. Ultrasound can also help determine the characteristics of nodules, such as their size, shape, and composition, which aids in assessing the risk of malignancy. In some cases, other imaging techniques, like radioactive iodine scans or thyroid scans, may be employed to evaluate the function of the thyroid gland.
3) Physical Exams
The thyroid specialist will examine the patient’s neck and thyroid gland during a physical examination. They will assess for any swelling, tenderness, or abnormalities in the thyroid gland. The specialist will use their hands to palpate the thyroid gland and check for any nodules or enlargement. They may also examine the patient’s neck for the presence of an enlarged thyroid (goitre) or any other visible signs of thyroid disorders. Additionally, the specialist will consider the patient’s medical history and symptoms, such as weight changes, fatigue, hair loss, or changes in heart rate, which can provide valuable diagnostic clues.
4) Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy
Ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy is a medical procedure that collects tissue samples from different parts of the body to diagnose various conditions, including thyroid disorders. An ultrasound machine is used to generate real-time images of the targeted area. During the procedure, a thin needle is inserted through the skin and into the suspicious or abnormal tissue. The needle is guided into the precise location within the organ or lesion using the ultrasound images as a visual guide. Once the needle is correctly positioned, it is used to aspirate (draw out) a small sample of cells, tissue, or fluid from the targeted area. This sample is collected in a syringe attached to the needle. The collected sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. Compared to surgical biopsy, this method is minimally invasive, leaves little or no scarring, and does not expose the patient to ionising radiation.
What are The Treatment Options for Thyroid Disorders?
1) Medication
Medication is frequently prescribed as a treatment for thyroid disorders. Levothyroxine is commonly used to address hormone deficiencies by supplementing the body with the necessary thyroid hormones. On the other hand, methimazole or propylthiouracil are often prescribed to counteract the excessive production of thyroid hormones in conditions like hyperthyroidism. Medication is typically considered a long-term treatment option requiring regular monitoring and dosage adjustments to ensure optimal effectiveness.
2) Radioactive Iodine Therapy
Radioactive iodine treatment is primarily used to treat hyperthyroidism, particularly in cases of an overactive thyroid gland or Graves disease. In this procedure, a radioactive form of iodine (I-131) is administered orally and selectively accumulates in the thyroid gland. The radiation emitted by iodine destroys the overactive thyroid tissue, reducing the production of many thyroid hormones. The treatment is usually delivered as a single dose and may result in permanent destruction or significant reduction of thyroid function. Patients undergoing radioiodine treatment require thyroid hormone levels post-treatment monitoring and may require subsequent hormone replacement therapy.
3) Beta-Blocker
Beta-blockers are a class of medications used to manage symptoms of thyroid disease, such as rapid heart rate, palpitations, tremors, anxiety, and sweating. They work by blocking the effects of the hormone adrenaline on beta receptors in the body, thereby reducing symptoms caused by increased sympathetic activity. This treatment method is temporary until other treatments, such as radioactive iodine therapy or surgery, can be initiated.
4) Surgery
Thyroid surgery, or a thyroidectomy, involves surgery to remove the thyroid gland. It’s usually considered for patients with thyroid cancer, large goitres causing compression or difficulty swallowing or breathing, or when other treatments are not feasible or unsuccessful. This treatment may need to completely remove entire thyroid glands or just partially. This will depend on the severity of the patient’s condition. However, there are two main ways this surgery can be done, with an incision on the front of the neck or with an incision in the armpit. The choice of approach is determined by various factors, including the expertise of the thyroid surgeon.
How to Manage Thyroid Disorders?
When it comes to the management of thyroid disorders, a comprehensive approach is essential. Below are some tips on how you can manage this disease:
Consult with a Healthcare Professional
If you’re suspected of a thyroid disorder or have been diagnosed with one, consult a healthcare professional such as a children’s ENT specialist in Singapore or a primary care doctor. They can provide accurate diagnosis, guidance, and treatment options tailored to your specific condition.
Regularly Monitor Hormone Levels
It’s essential to have regular thyroid function tests to monitor hormone levels. These tests, including TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and thyroid hormone (T3 and T4) measurements, help assess the effectiveness of medication and guide any necessary adjustments. To monitor your hormone levels, you would visit a laboratory or clinic where a trained professional will collect your blood sample.
Cultivate a Healthy Lifestyle
Adopting a holistic approach is beneficial to boost your thyroid health. Begin by following a well-balanced diet with nutrient-rich foods while avoiding excessive iodine intake. Regular exercise promotes circulation and supports your body’s natural functions.
Visit a Thyroid Specialist in Singapore Today!
Navigating the complexities of thyroid disorders can be challenging, but with the assistance of a renowned thyroid specialist in Singapore like Novena ENT, you can receive expert guidance and comprehensive treatment. As leading head and neck specialist inSingapore, we have extensive expertise in various ENT fields, enabling us to diagnose and treat thyroid disorders effectively. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing personalised care and support to help you manage your condition.
