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    4. Thyroid conditions

    Thyroid conditions

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, our endocrinology specialists assess, diagnose, and manage thyroid conditions. If you have symptoms that may be related to your thyroid, our consultant-led team can help identify the cause and recommend treatment tailored to your needs.

    The thyroid is a small gland in your neck. It produces hormones that help regulate your metabolism, energy levels, heart rate, and body temperature. When your thyroid produces too much or too little thyroid hormone, it can affect many areas of your health.

    An assessment can help you understand your symptoms, receive an accurate diagnosis, and access appropriate care.

    • Thyroid conditions are disorders that affect how the thyroid gland works. The thyroid produces hormones that help control how your body uses energy and how your organs function.

      An underactive thyroid that does not produce enough hormone is known as hypothyroidism. An overactive thyroid that produces too much hormone is known as hyperthyroidism.

      Common thyroid conditions include:

      • Hypothyroidism, when the thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormone
      • Hyperthyroidism, when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone
      • Thyroid nodules, which are lumps that develop in the thyroid
      • An enlarged thyroid, known as a goitre
      • Autoimmune thyroid conditions, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid

      Thyroid conditions affect people in different ways. Some symptoms develop gradually, while others appear more suddenly.

      Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism 

      Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are two common thyroid conditions.

      Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid does not produce enough hormone. Treatment often involves thyroid hormone replacement medicine. This helps restore hormone levels and manage symptoms.

      Hyperthyroidism occurs when your thyroid produces too much hormone. Treatment depends on the cause and may include medicine, monitoring, or other specialist treatments.

      Your consultant will explain your diagnosis and treatment options. Together, you can develop a plan that takes account of your symptoms, circumstances and long-term health goals.

    • Symptoms depend on whether your thyroid is underactive, overactive, or affected by another disorder.

      You may experience:

      • Tiredness or low energy
      • Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
      • Increased sensitivity to cold or heat
      • A fast or irregular heartbeat
      • Anxiety, irritability, or mood changes
      • Difficulty concentrating or problems with memory
      • Dry skin or changes in hair thickness
      • Muscle weakness or aches
      • Changes in bowel habits
      • Changes in your menstrual cycle
      • Swelling or a lump in your neck

      These symptoms can also be caused by other health conditions. A specialist assessment can help determine whether your thyroid may be contributing to how you feel.

    • Thyroid conditions can have several causes. These may involve the immune system, inherited factors, inflammation, or other changes that affect thyroid function.

      Contributing factors may include:

      • An autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid
      • A family history of thyroid disease
      • Inflammation of the thyroid gland, known as thyroiditis
      • Medicines that affect thyroid function
      • Too much or too little iodine
      • Previous treatment involving the thyroid gland

      Sometimes, the cause is not immediately clear. Your specialist will consider your symptoms, medical history, examination, and test results to understand what may be affecting your thyroid.

    • Diagnosing a thyroid condition begins with a detailed consultation and physical examination.

      Your assessment may include:

      • A review of your symptoms and medical history
      • An examination of your neck and thyroid gland
      • Blood tests to measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones such as thyroxine (T4)
      • Antibody tests to look for an autoimmune thyroid condition
      • An ultrasound scan may be indicated to examine thyroid nodules or changes in the structure of the gland

      Blood tests can show how well your thyroid is working and whether your hormone levels are within the expected range.

      The tests you need will depend on your symptoms, examination findings, and medical history.

    • Treatment for thyroid conditions depends on the type of disorder, the severity of your symptoms, and how the condition affects your daily life.

      Your treatment plan may include:

      • Medicine to replace thyroid hormone if your thyroid is underactive
      • Medicine to reduce thyroid hormone production if your thyroid is overactive
      • Regular blood tests to monitor your hormone levels and adjust treatment
      • Support to help you manage symptoms and understand how the condition may affect your health

    • At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, you receive consultant-led care from specialists experienced in endocrine and hormone-related conditions.

      Our approach includes:

      • Specialist assessment and management of thyroid conditions
      • A detailed review of your symptoms, medical history and test results
      • Access to diagnostic tests when needed
      • A treatment plan tailored to your condition and circumstances
      • Evidence-based recommendations to support your ongoing health

      As part of the globally recognised Mayo Clinic network, we are committed to clear communication, thoughtful treatment planning and patient-centred care.

    Private health insurance

    Mayo Clinic Healthcare works with all major private health insurance providers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, BUPA, Health Partners Group, Vitality Health and WPA. Self-pay arrangements are also available.

    We recommend checking the details of your individual policy and obtaining any required authorisation before your appointment.

    Book a private assessment

    If you have symptoms that may be related to a thyroid condition, our endocrinology specialists can assess your health and recommend appropriate next steps.

    Request an appointment or call +44 (0) 207 871 2575 to speak with our team.

     

    Medically Reviewed by

    Dr Vanderpump, Consultant Endocrinologist

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