Most people are familiar with diabetes, but there are other endocrine disorders that people might not know about. Being aware of them is important because if you can identify the signs of these conditions early, you can take better care of yourself and avoid future health problems. Below, our endocrinologists in East Chicago, Indiana are going to highlight three lesser-known endocrine disorders and their symptoms.
Addison’s disease
Addison’s disease (also called primary adrenal insufficiency) affects your adrenal glands, which produce cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones regulate how your body uses energy, keep your blood pressure normal, and help you fight off sickness. When someone has Addison’s disease, their own immune system mistakenly attacks the adrenal glands, thus limiting cortisol and aldosterone production.
If you have Addison’s disease, you might feel extremely tired all the time and lose weight for no reason. You might have low blood pressure, and your muscles might hurt. You might also feel sad or grumpy more often than normal.
If you have observed any of these symptoms, you should immediately consult with an endocrinologist in East Chicago, Indiana. They can diagnose the condition early with some blood tests to measure your hormone levels, and they might even do imaging tests like CT scans to get a better view of your adrenal glands.
Though Addison’s disease is rare (it affects approximately 4 in 100,000 people each year), hormone replacement therapy can help you restore your hormone levels and improve your overall quality of life.
Grave’s disease
Grave’s disease triggers an overactive thyroid, so your body ends up with an excess of thyroid hormone. This condition is called hyperthyroidism, and it can happen to anyone, although it is more common in women than in men. About 1% of the U.S. population have Grave’s disease, and it is the main reason people develop hyperthyroidism — 4 out of 5 cases of hyperthyroidism in the U.S. are due to Grave’s disease.
If you have Grave’s disease, your heart might beat fast, you could feel more irritable than usual, have trouble sleeping, lose weight without trying, or see some swelling at the front of your neck from an enlarged thyroid gland. You might also have shaky hands and feel extremely tired.
Diagnosis for Grave’s disease usually starts with a discussion of symptoms, followed by some blood tests to measure your thyroid hormone levels, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and antibodies. Imaging tests may also be recommended to see the size and function of the thyroid.
Medication can be used to reduce thyroid hormone production, but in some cases, surgery might be necessary to remove all or part of the thyroid. If you want to keep your symptoms in control and lower the chances of any long-term complications, find and consult with an experienced endocrinologist in East Chicago, Indiana.
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, or just “Hashimoto’s,” is another endocrine disorder, but it does the opposite of Grave’s disease. While Grave’s disease causes an overactive thyroid, Hashimoto’s causes an underactive thyroid. This condition is called hypothyroidism and happens because your immune system accidentally attacks the thyroid. When that happens, the thyroid can’t make enough of the hormones it needs, which can slow your metabolism and cause many other problems.
Hashimoto’s disease usually develops gradually, with some mild symptoms in the beginning. You might feel a little tired, gain some weight, have sore joints, or lose some hair. As time goes on, though, those symptoms can get more noticeable, and you might also start dealing with depression, memory problems, or a slow heartbeat. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, affecting approximately 5% of the U.S. population.
To diagnose Hashimoto’s disease, doctors usually take a blood test to check hormone levels and an antibody test to see if certain antibodies are in your blood. For treatment, most people take synthetic thyroid hormones, which can ease those symptoms and make life a lot better.
If you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to a slow thyroid, consulting with a knowledgeable endocrinologist in East Chicago, Indiana can help you figure out an effective management plan.
Looking for an Affordable Endocrinologist in East Chicago, Indiana?
Are you looking for an experienced endocrinologist in East Chicago, Indiana who can help you manage conditions like Addison’s disease, Grave’s disease, or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis? If so, 219 Health Network is here for you. Contact us today at 833-219-0001 to schedule a visit with one of our specialists.