Thyroid disease encompasses a range of conditions affecting the thyroid gland — a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck that produces hormones regulating metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy levels. Thyroid disorders are among the most common endocrine conditions, affecting an estimated 20 million Americans, with women being five to eight times more likely than men to develop thyroid problems. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces insufficient hormones, slowing the body's functions. The most common cause is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, depression, and slowed heart rate. Treatment involves daily oral supplementation with levothyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone. Hyperthyroidism results from an overactive thyroid producing excess hormones, accelerating body functions. Graves' disease, another autoimmune condition, is the most common cause. Symptoms include unintentional weight loss, rapid or irregular heartbeat, anxiety, tremors, sweating, increased appetite, and heat intolerance. A severe, potentially life-threatening complication called thyroid storm can occur in untreated hyperthyroidism. Treatment options include antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, and thyroidectomy. Thyroid nodules — lumps within the thyroid gland — are extremely common, found in up to 50% of adults on ultrasound. The vast majority are benign, but a small percentage (approximately 5–10%) are malignant. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy is the standard approach to evaluate suspicious nodules. Thyroid cancer is generally highly treatable, with an excellent prognosis when detected early. At Silvaris Health, our endocrinology team offers comprehensive thyroid evaluation including ultrasound, thyroid function testing, FNA biopsy, and individualized treatment planning. We work in close collaboration with our nuclear medicine, radiology, and surgical teams to provide integrated care for all thyroid conditions.
