Bodily functions are regulated by the endocrine system, which is a network of glands that secrete hormones. Among other functions, the hormones support growth and metabolism. Endocrine disease is present when glands, either under work or over work, producing too little or too much hormones.
Endocrine diseases are the result of glands failing to work properly. The thyroid gland is essential to the endocrine system. The hormones secreted by the thyroid gland regulate metabolism. The thyroid gland also produces hormones that affect other bodily functions and influence bone structure, the digestive process, and brain development.
Women are more susceptible to developing thyroid conditions than men. In fact, they are 8 times more likely to experience symptoms associated with thyroid disease.
The Affect of Thyroid Disease on Young Women
Thyroid disease can affect a woman’s menstrual cycle and can also be problematic when trying to get pregnant or create health issues during pregnancy. Two conditions that are related to the thyroid that affect a woman’s health are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
- Hypothyroidism is defined as a lack of hormones being produced by the thyroid. In other words, when the thyroid is underactive, it is called hypothyroidism.
- Hyperthyroidism is defined by high levels of hormones being produced by the thyroid. When the thyroid is overactive, it is called hyperthyroidism.
Hypothyroidism
A young woman who has hypothyroidism may experience fatigue and weight gain. Hypothyroidism may also affect her sex life and sexual performance, since loss of libido is associated with the condition.
Women who experience recurrent infections, particularly of the urinary and respiratory tracts, should visit an endocrinologist. The infections may be a sign of hypothyroidism.
Other signs and symptoms include: depression, difficulty sleeping, and anemia. Young women may also have heavy periods. An endocrinologist can diagnose whether the symptoms are related to hypothyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism
One common form of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease, which negatively affects the body’s immune system.
Our metabolisms naturally slow down as we age, but with hyperthyroidism, metabolism ramps up. This may sound like a good thing, but it’s not. The hormones produced by an overactive thyroid can wreak havoc in the body.
Women with hyperthyroidism may experience weight loss, which could be excessive even if they are eating a lot.
Other symptoms include hot flashes, weakness in the muscles, irritability, trouble sleeping and anxiousness. Even more serious is the possibility of developing an irregular heartbeat. The heart can also beat too fast as a result of hyperthyroidism.
Thyroid Disease Treatment in Miami Beach, Florida
If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, it’s time to get your thyroid checked. This includes if you’ve been trying unsuccessfully to become pregnant, or if your periods are too heavy, too light or sporadic.
For young women in the Miami area, Dr. Alexander Lurie, is specially trained to answer and diagnose conditions that affect the endocrine system. Once a diagnosis is made, Dr. Lurie will make a treatment plan that gives effective results.
Dr. Lurie treats all patients in the Miami area who have endocrine/thyroid disorders. Make an appointment today by calling (305) 456-4840. You can also request an appointment online.
