Thyroid consultation is an appointment between the patient and a thyroid specialist called endocrinologist to determine whether an existing health condition is caused by the thyroid glands, diagnose a condition, manage the illness, or provide the best treatment for the patient.
The thyroids are a pair of butterfly-shaped glands found near the neck area. They are a part of the endocrine system and they secrete hormones called T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). T3 is the active hormone that affects various physiological processes in the body including body temperature and heart rate, among others. T4, on the other hand, is responsible for the regulation of metabolism. Collectively, these hormones also contribute to the maintenance of the bones as well as the development of the brain.
Hormones have to be produced by the body at an ideal level. Otherwise, changes, no matter how small, can have a significant negative impact on a person’s overall health.
Thyroid consultation may be necessary when:
The patient is showing signs of thyroid trouble, which include but not limited to:
While these symptoms may indicate other conditions, a combination of them may point out issues with the thyroid glands.
A patient should also seek consultation if he’s already diagnosed with a thyroid condition, in which appointments will serve as follow-ups. Likewise, an appointment is needed before high-risk treatment plans such as surgery are conducted.
Thyroid consultation is generally safe as it does not require procedures to be performed or require the patient to take medications.