Many people have trouble getting enough sleep because they are trying to keep up with a busy work schedule and home life. For some individuals, extreme fatigue may be a symptom of a more serious condition such as hyperthyroidism. A San Jose thyroid doctor has effective ways to treat this problem
The thyroid is located at the base of the throat. This small gland secretes numerous hormones the body needs for proper development as well as regulating body temperature and metabolism. When this gland becomes overactive, it produces more hormones than the body needs for normal function.
Many individuals with this condition experience extreme fatigue because they have difficulty sleeping. The high levels of hormones increase heartbeat, increase blood pressure, and cause diarrhea and tremors. All of this stresses the system and can cause an individual to feel exhausted.
A physician can analyze blood to determine if a patient has hyperthyroidism. TSH, which is secreted by the pituitary gland, stimulates the release of thyroid hormones, so an elevated level of TSH is something the doctor will look for in the blood test. An autoimmune condition known as Graves' disease is hereditary and can cause elevated hormone levels. Nodules growing on the gland or inflammation may also interfere with proper function.
Propylthiouracil and methimazole are two drugs that can control hormone production but some individuals suffer serious side effects when taking them. Radioactive iodine taken orally and surgery are two additional options the doctor will consider. Beta-blockers can control a rapid heartbeat but will not affect hormone levels directly.
Anyone who suspects they may have hyperthyroidism should seek medical intervention. Physicians have multiple ways to control this condition. They will select the best method for treating the individual based on cause of the hyperactivity, health and age.
The thyroid is located at the base of the throat. This small gland secretes numerous hormones the body needs for proper development as well as regulating body temperature and metabolism. When this gland becomes overactive, it produces more hormones than the body needs for normal function.
Many individuals with this condition experience extreme fatigue because they have difficulty sleeping. The high levels of hormones increase heartbeat, increase blood pressure, and cause diarrhea and tremors. All of this stresses the system and can cause an individual to feel exhausted.
A physician can analyze blood to determine if a patient has hyperthyroidism. TSH, which is secreted by the pituitary gland, stimulates the release of thyroid hormones, so an elevated level of TSH is something the doctor will look for in the blood test. An autoimmune condition known as Graves' disease is hereditary and can cause elevated hormone levels. Nodules growing on the gland or inflammation may also interfere with proper function.
Propylthiouracil and methimazole are two drugs that can control hormone production but some individuals suffer serious side effects when taking them. Radioactive iodine taken orally and surgery are two additional options the doctor will consider. Beta-blockers can control a rapid heartbeat but will not affect hormone levels directly.
Anyone who suspects they may have hyperthyroidism should seek medical intervention. Physicians have multiple ways to control this condition. They will select the best method for treating the individual based on cause of the hyperactivity, health and age.
About the Author:
Find a review of the reasons why you should visit a functional medicine center and more information about an experienced San Jose thyroid doctor at http://www.ihschiropractic.com now.