Doctors Specializing In Thyroid Problems

The First Step Find The Right Type Of Doctor

If you have any thyroid condition then you know just how frustrating it can be trying to get your doctor to see eye to eye with you.

While doctors have undergone training to help people with various types of problems, it isnt always the case that whatever doctor you are seeing is the best option for you.

And, as a thyroid patient, you may not be aware that there are MANY options available to you.

You dont have to stick with your primary care doctor or your endocrinologist, especially if they dont seem to be helping you.

There are doctors that specialize in other areas of medicine that are often better at treating hormone imbalances such as thyroid problems.

So if your doctor really isnt willing to work with you or isnt interested in hearing about your problems, you do NOT need to settle.

But before you run out and swap doctors, lets talk a look at the various options available.

In this article you will learn:

• How conventional doctors differ from integrative doctors
• How various types of doctors can help treat and manage thyroid problems
• Why some doctors are better at managing thyroid problems compared to others
• When you should look outside of the traditional insurance based model
• How naturopaths, chiropractors, and health coaches can help you feel better

Foods to Avoid if you Have Thyroid Problems:

Ive found that these 10 foods cause the most problems for thyroid patients. Learn which foods you should avoid if you have thyroid disease of any type.

Evaluating Your Current Healthcare Provider

Once you see a healthcare provider for your thyroid condition, itâs a good idea to step back and decide whether or not this is the healthcare provider you wish to continue seeing.

Having a list of questions to ask yourself can sometimes make this decision a bit more objective. You probably wonât be able to get everything you want in one thyroid doctor, so itâs helpful to decide what is most important to you, as well as what is realistic.

When You May Want To See An Endocrinologist

If you need an oncologist or a surgeon, you will know it, as either, you will have a diagnosis of thyroid cancer or a thyroidectomy will have already been recommended to you.

When that’s not the case, you may assume that an endocrinologist is a better choice for you than your primary care healthcare provider or OB/GYN. Endocrinologists specialize in the endocrine system, but not everyone with a thyroid condition needs to see one of these specialists. This is fortunate as there is currently a significant shortage of endocrinologists in the United States.

With conditions such as autoimmune hypothyroidism, people may actually receive better care from another specialist simply because they are able to see them more regularly many endocrinologists’ appointments are booked far into the future or they are not taking any new patients.

However, in certain circumstances and when particular conditions are already diagnosed , seeing an endocrinologist is a good idea:

• Symptoms of hypothyroidism persist despite “normal” lab tests
• TSH fluctuates unpredictably
• Heart disease along with a thyroid problem

An initial evaluation with an endocrinologist may also be helpful for those with new-onset Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and for those who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant with thyroid disease .

If you do see an endocrinologist, it’s important to find one who specializes in thyroid disease rather than another endocrine condition such as diabetes.

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Key Features Of Treatment At Narayana Health Include

• State-of-the-art laboratory services for hormonal concentration estimation
• A multi-disciplinary approach to endocrine disorder treatment, leading to better clinical outcomes
• World-class medical equipment and infrastructure
• Ultrasound services for thyroid treatment and parathyroid disorders
• Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology for thyroid nodules

Narayana Health provides the highest quality care and is at the forefront of cutting-edge research on endocrine diseases and diabetes with compassion and concern for patients wellbeing.

How Can I Book An Appointment Online With A Doctor For Endocrinology Consultation

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find doctors for Endocrinology Consultation and book appointments instantly. You can search for doctors for Endocrinology Consultation or any other visit reason. Then, enter your desired appointment location and choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, youll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.

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Where Can I Find An Endocrinologist

You can ask your doctor or you can visit the healthdirect service finder. The Endocrine Society ofAustralia has a directory that allows you to search for endocrinologists based on location or the endocrinologists area of expertise.

Youll need a referral from your doctor to see an endocrinologist. You may also need to wait a while before seeing an endocrinologist, as specialists sometimes have long waiting times before you can get an appointment.

When you make a booking, you can ask how much the visit will cost, and how much you will get back from Medicare.

Generally, visits to specialists arent covered by private health funds.

Your Symptoms Dont Improve

If you have been seeking treatment for your thyroid gland from your general practitioner, your treatment may have been limited due to a lack of specialization. This might not be enough to handle your condition, resulting in symptoms that dont improve over time and perhaps actually get worse. If you dont see the desired results from your treatment, its time to find an endocrinologist.

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Thyroid & Diabetes The Focus Of An Endocrinologist

From an interview on Good Morning Pee Dee with Aundrea Loftley, MD McLeod Endocrinology Associates

An endocrinologist is a specialist dealing with hormone imbalances in the body primarily thyroid issues and diabetes.

THYROID ISSUES TOO MUCH, TOO LITTLE

The thyroid is a powerful gland, says McLeod Endocrinologist Aundrea Loftley, MD. It sits at the center of our neck and its tiny. Yet, the thyroid controls everything from the way we think to our metabolism and how our heart contracts.

Many people spend their lives barely aware that they have a thyroid. Yet, a large portion of the population has to deal with a gland thats overactive or underactive .

Sometimes, the thyroid irregularity is triggered by your bodys own immune system, says Dr. Loftley. Other times it can be induced by medications or exposures . There are a number of symptoms, although none are unique to the thyroid gland. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, see your personal physician for initial testing and a referral can be made if lab abnormalities are detected.

Signs of thyroid trouble include:

Sudden weight gain or loss.Sudden onset of diarrhea or constipation.Hand tremor.Memory problems in someone who is a highly functioning individual.Other, less common symptoms, include: Chest pain, heart palpitations and unusual anxiety.DIABETES

There are several types of diabetes.

The three types that we see most often are:

ACTION YOU CAN TAKE

For more information on these topics:

Choosing A Healthcare Provider

Once you know what type of healthcare provider you wish to see, there are several things to consider before you make your appointment. This is an important decision for several reasons. Not only is thyroid disease something that often requires long-term care, but it isn’t always easy to treatand working to find an effective treatment can make a difference in outcomes.

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Before Going To An Endocrinologist

Before you go to the endocrinologist, write down any symptoms you have, including any major stresses or recent changes in your life.

And check with the endocrinologist and with your doctor whether you need to have any tests or take along any x-rays.

Its a good idea to write down some questions to ask your endocrinologist. Here are some examples:

• What is causing my symptoms?
• Is this condition temporary or ongoing?
• What tests do I need?
• What is the best way to treat or manage my condition?
• Is there anything I can do to help my condition?
• How long will my treatment last?
• Will you look after me long term, or is this just a one-off visit?

Also, remember to take a list of all your medications, vitamins orsupplements with you.

You Have A Noticeable Lump In Your Thyroid Gland

If you have a known problem with your thyroid gland, palpate the area to make sure no lumps or nodules have formed. If you do happen to find a growth on your thyroid gland, that will require the attention of a specialist to properly diagnose and treat it. Strange lumps may be due to a goiter, an enlargement of portions of the thyroid gland, or a complete enlargement of the whole gland. Most of the time, these nodes and lumps are benign, but there is a chance they may be the cause of certain thyroid conditions, and they may even be cancerous. An endocrinologist must observe them to determine why they have formed and if there are any negative effects.

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What Experience And Training Do Endocrinologists Need

Endocrinology is a subspecialty of internal medicine. Endocrinologists are healthcare providers who have trained in the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat endocrine conditions specifically.

To become an endocrinologist in the United States, a person must obtain or complete the following:

• A bachelors degree .
• Approximately four years of medical school.
• A two- to three-year residency in internal medicine or pediatrics.
• A two- to three-year fellowship in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism.
• Pass an exam to become board-certified in internal medicine through the American Board of Internal Medicine.
• Pass an endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism exam to become board-certified as an endocrinologist.

Endocrinologists and all healthcare providers also partake in yearly learning and training courses known as Continuing Medical Education to stay up to date in their medical field.

Hypothyroidism: When To See An Endocrinologist

Your primary care doctor should be able to help you monitor your condition most of the time. However, there may be situations when you need the care of a thyroid specialist.

Masterfile

Most people with hypothyroidism take synthetic thyroid hormone replacement medication to make up for what the body isnt producing. Usually a primary care doctor can manage this condition, which is common and affects nearly five percent of Americans age 12 and older, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

But there are situations in which you may need to have an endocrinologist, a doctor who specializes in the endocrine system, oversee your care. An endocrinologist is particularly knowledgeable about the function of the thyroid gland and the bodys other hormone-secreting glands.

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A History Of Leadership

• The first thyroid unit in the United States was founded at Mass General in 1913
• Radioactive iodine was first evaluated and used in the Mass General Thyroid Unit in the late 1930s and early 1940s and remains one of the standard therapies for hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer
• Our unit pioneered the development of thyroid biopsies in the 1950s
• Thyroid Associates is currently staffed by five thyroid specialists who are internationally known for their expertise in researching, diagnosing and treating thyroid conditions. Gilbert H. Daniels, MD and Douglas S. Ross, MD are co-directors of Thyroid Associates

Are You Looking For A Doctor Who Treats Adrenal Fatiguedo You Have A Doctor Who Treats Adrenal Fatigue

Look through or add to our adrenal fatigue doctor reviews to find a doctor that treats adrenal fatigue, or share with us about a great doctor you’ve been working with.

Many of the visitors to this website are looking for a doctor that treats adrenal fatigue. I know from experience, they are not easy to find! And I am only one person, living in one location, so I have no way of knowing the best adrenal fatigue doctors across the country, much less around the world! So I offer this place for you to share any information you may have about adrenal fatigue doctors. Ask others about doctors in your area, or TELL others about your doctor!

Tell us as much as you can about your experience with your doctor:

• How long did it take you to get in as a new patient?
• Does he take insurance?
• Is he a traditional endocrinologist, MD, ND, or alternative health-care provider?
• Did you feel like you had his undivided attention and he was genuinely interested in you, or did you get the feeling he was trying to get you in-n-out as quickly as possible?
• Were you happy with the way you were listened to?
• Was he open to your input?
• How would you rate him on “patient education”?
• Did he explain things well?
• Did he address the whole spectrum of treating adrenal fatigue, including stress reduction and lifestyle issues, or did he just write a prescription and tell you to take it and you’ll be cured?

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What Should I Expect When Seeing An Endocrinologist

Youll most likely see an endocrinologist during an outpatient visit to their office. You can expect that theyll ask thorough questions about your medical history, current medications and symptoms. They may also perform a physical exam.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Getting a new diagnosis can be overwhelming. If you have a condition that affects your endocrine system, such as diabetes or thyroid disease, an endocrinologist can help you manage and treat your condition. Theyre experts in their field and have up-to-date knowledge on medications, procedures and technology that can help you. If youre currently seeing your primary healthcare provider to manage your endocrine condition and want more specified care and information, dont be afraid to ask them for an endocrinologist recommendation or referral.

What Is Thyroid Disease

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of your throat. It produces hormones that are crucial to many bodily functions, including growth, development, and metabolism. These hormones are called thyroxine and triiodothyronine . Thyroid function depends greatly on another glandthe pituitary, which monitors hormone levels and tells your thyroid how much to produce.

The pituitary exerts this control over the thyroid with the aptly named thyroid-stimulating hormone . When thyroid hormone levels drop, the pituitary releases more TSH to stimulate the thyroid to increase production.

In thyroid disease, you can end up with either too much thyroid hormonehyperthyroidismor too littlehypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism speeds up your body’s systems and processes, while hypothyroidism slows them down, leading to opposite symptoms.

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Treatments For Thyroid Disorders

Although the effects of a thyroid condition can be unpleasant, most thyroid problems can be managed well if properly diagnosed and treated. Your doctor may prescribe medication or recommend surgery depending on your condition.

Mercy Health has a team of endocrinologists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid conditions, such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Our skilled doctors and clinicians will help you manage your condition in a way that allows for an active, healthy life, keeping you well in mind, body and spirit. Find a Mercy Health endocrinologist and make an appointment today if you have concerns about your thyroid health.

Tests For Thyroid Disease

Your doctor may suspect thyroid disease if you experience some of the common symptoms, such as unexplained weight loss or gain, mood swings or depression, and fatigue. In many cases, abnormal thyroid levels may turn up when your doctor orders a blood test as part of a routine physical exam. Your doctor may order one of the following tests to confirm your diagnosis.

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What Is An Endocrinologist

An endocrinologist is a medical specialist who treats people with a range of conditions that are caused by problems with hormones, such as diabetes, menopause and thyroid problems.

Hormones are part of theendocrine system, series of glands that produce and secrete hormones that control many different bodily functions. The endocrine system includes:

• the pituitary gland

More Care, Fewer Visits

Coming back and forth to the doctorâs office for multiple appointments is a burden, which is why we work with you to coordinate efficient and effective visits. See multiple specialists, get blood work completed and even have a procedure all in a single appointment. For added convenience, we have both a Manhattan and a Westchester location, and we offer video visits which can be done from the comfort of your own home. Need to be seen soon? We also do same-day consultations. Just call to be seen by the next available doctor on our team.

Dedicated Patient Navigator

Our on-site patient navigator is here to help make sure your experience with us goes as smoothly as possible. Theyll help you prepare for your appointment, coordinate appointments with other specialists, clarify any insurance and billing concerns, and will always be available to make sure your questions are answered.

More Surgical Experience and Better Results

Comprehensive Thyroid Cancer Care

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Highlights Of Our Center

More Care, Fewer Visits

Coming back and forth to the doctor’s office for multiple appointments is a burden, which is why we work with you to coordinate efficient and effective visits. See multiple specialists, get blood work completed and even have a procedure all in a single appointment. For added convenience, we have both a Manhattan and a Westchester location, and we offer video visits which can be done from the comfort of your own home. Need to be seen soon? We also do same-day consultations. Just call to be seen by the next available doctor on our team.

Dedicated Patient Navigator

Our on-site patient navigator is here to help make sure your experience with us goes as smoothly as possible. Theyll help you prepare for your appointment, coordinate appointments with other specialists, clarify any insurance and billing concerns, and will always be available to make sure your questions are answered.

More Surgical Experience and Better Results

Comprehensive Thyroid Cancer Care

Our surgeons and endocrinologists work closely with oncologists, radiologists and other specialists to create personalized treatment plans for all forms of thyroid cancer, at any stage. We are proud to be part of Columbias Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, one of only a few programs in the country to earn the National Cancer Institutes official comprehensive cancer center designation.