Thyroid Treatment in Westmoreland County, PA
Matthew W. Levin, MD Has Experience Treating Various Thyroid Diseases
Schedule an appointment with Matthew W. Levin, MD for thyroid treatment in Westmoreland County, PA. Primary care physicians are frequently the first line of defense to diagnose and treat thyroid problems. Dr. Levin has helped patients with both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. To help make a diagnosis, Dr. Levin uses physical exams as well as blood tests and possibly an ultrasound.
If you believe you may have a thyroid issue or have a previous diagnosis, schedule an appointment with Dr. Levin. You can reach the office in Delmont, PA by calling (724) 216-9300. It is important to have a knowledgeable doctor who can offer proper treatments and thyroid tests. If currently a patient of Dr. Levin and need to reach him outside of normal office hours, call (412) 394-4024.
Difference Between Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
The thyroid is the butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck. It creates hormones that regulate the rate of your metabolism. By interfering with the synthesis of thyroid hormones, thyroid diseases can either slow down or speed up metabolism.
Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormones. Another name for this illness is underactive thyroid. There are several causes. Common causes include an autoimmune disease such as Hashimoto’s disease, or damage to the pituitary gland. Temporary causes of hypothyroidism result from inflammation, lack of iodine, or medication.
Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormone. This issue is also known as an overactive thyroid. Hyperthyroidism accelerates the body’s metabolism. The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is autoimmune disease called Graves’ disease. It can also result from thyroid nodules.
Symptoms of a Potential Thyroid Disease
- Feeling Too Cold or Hot
- Hair Loss
- Changes in Energy or Mood
- Changes in Heart Rate
- Swelling in the Neck
- Weight Gain or Loss
Hyperthyroidism can also cause additional symptoms, such as:
- Muscle weakness or trembling hands
- Vision problems
- Diarrhea
- Irregular menstrual periods
Hypothyroidism can cause many other symptoms, including:
- Dry skin and brittle nails
- Numbness or tingling in the hands
- Constipation
- Abnormal menstrual periods
Complications of Untreated Thyroid Disease
Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to serious complications, including heart disease, nerve damage, mental health problems, coma, and even death. Most people with hypothyroidism have to take thyroid hormone replacement long term.
Without treatment, hyperthyroidism can result in a number of major health issues. These include an irregular heartbeat, risk of blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other cardiac issues. A condition known as Graves’ ophthalmopathy can happen causing eye discomfort, light sensitivity, and double vision.