Thyroid disease affects millions of people worldwide and can significantly impact your health and quality of life. At Lukner Medical Clinic, conveniently located in the Pampa Mall in Pampa, Texas, Ralf Lukner, MD, PhD, can diagnose and treat all types of thyroid disease, helping you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Don’t let thyroid disease keep you from enjoying a healthy, comfortable life. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.
Thyroid disease is a wide range of conditions that can affect the butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate mood, metabolism, temperature, and other crucial functions. When the gland produces too little or too much of its essential hormones, you can experience uncomfortable symptoms.
Diagnosing your specific type of thyroid disease is critical before beginning treatment. At Lukner Medical Clinic, Dr. Lukner uses multiple interventions to diagnose and treat thyroid disease.
There are multiple types of thyroid disease, and the most common are:
Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland doesn’t produce adequate hormone levels. It’s the most common type of thyroid disease and commonly affects women. Signs typically include:
This condition can also lead to an enlarged thyroid.
Less common than hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism causes your gland to produce too many hormones. Individuals with hyperthyroidism often experience the following:
An overactive thyroid can also interfere with your ability to sleep through the night.
Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune disease in which your immune system attacks the hormone-producing cells in the thyroid. Individuals with Hashimoto’s disease typically take medication for the rest of their lives to properly regulate their hormone levels.
After a comprehensive medical history review and physical exam, Dr. Lukner orders a blood test to evaluate your thyroid function. This test can determine whether your thyroid produces too much or too little of its hormone. Along with bloodwork, Dr. Lukner may order imaging scans to view your thyroid.
The approach Dr. Lukner takes to treat thyroid disease depends on what type you have. These treatments may include:
Some forms of thyroid disease require surgery. If this is the case, Dr. Lukner can coordinate with specialists to ensure a successful surgery and recovery.
Call Lukner Medical Clinic today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about thyroid disease.