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Symptoms and Signs of Thyroid Disorders: When to Seek Help

By Thyroid Issues

Thyroid disorders can manifest through a myriad of symptoms, affecting various aspects of your health and well-being. Recognizing these signs is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment, which can significantly improve the quality of life. This post will guide you through the common symptoms of thyroid disorders, helping you understand when it might be time to seek professional advice.

Hypothyroidism: The Underactive Thyroid

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, slowing down the body’s metabolic processes. Symptoms may include:

– Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling unusually tired or weak, even after rest.
– Weight Gain: Unexplained weight gain, despite no change in diet or exercise habits.
– Cold Sensitivity: Feeling cold when others do not.
– Skin and Hair Changes: Dry skin, hair loss, and brittle nails.
– Mood Changes: Depression or low mood that doesn’t seem to lift.

Hyperthyroidism: The Overactive Thyroid

Hyperthyroidism is characterized by an overproduction of thyroid hormones, leading to an acceleration of the body’s metabolic processes. Symptoms may include:

– Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss, despite normal or increased appetite.
– Heat Sensitivity: Feeling excessively warm or sweating more than usual.
– Heart Palpitations: Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
– Anxiety and Irritability: Increased anxiety, nervousness, or irritability.
– Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty sleeping or insomnia.

Other Signs to Watch For

– Thyroid Swelling: A noticeable swelling in the neck, which may indicate a goiter or thyroid nodules.
– Menstrual Irregularities: Heavy, irregular, or light menstrual cycles.
– Muscle Weakness: Unexplained muscle weakness or tremors.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it may be time to consult a healthcare provider. Early detection and treatment of thyroid disorders can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

Conclusion

Thyroid disorders can significantly impact your health, but with early detection and the right treatment, managing these conditions is entirely possible. If you’re concerned about your thyroid health or experiencing symptoms that interfere with your daily life, Bay Area Endocrinology Associates is here to support you. Our expert team specializes in the diagnosis and management of thyroid and metabolic conditions. Contact us or call today to schedule your appointment, and take the first step towards better health.

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The Basics of Thyroid Function: What You Need to Know

By Thyroid Issues

The thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of your neck, plays a pivotal role in your body’s endocrine system. Despite its size, the thyroid is mighty, influencing virtually every cell, tissue, and organ in your body. This gland produces hormones critical for metabolism, energy regulation, and overall well-being. Understanding thyroid function is the first step in recognizing the importance of thyroid health.

What is the Thyroid and What Does It Do?

The thyroid gland produces two main hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones regulate the body’s metabolic rate, affecting heart rate, body weight, muscle strength, and even cholesterol levels. The thyroid’s operation is under the control of the pituitary gland, which releases thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) to prompt hormone production. This feedback loop ensures your body maintains a delicate balance of thyroid hormones.

The Importance of Thyroid Hormones

Thyroid hormones are indispensable for normal growth and development. They play a crucial role in brain development during infancy and childhood. For adults, these hormones maintain brain function, food metabolism, and body temperature regulation, among other vital processes. An imbalance in thyroid hormone levels can lead to various health issues, underscoring the importance of a well-functioning thyroid.

Symptoms of Thyroid Dysfunction

Thyroid dysfunction can manifest in multiple ways, depending on whether the gland is underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism). Common symptoms include:

– Hypothyroidism: Fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, and hair loss.
– Hyperthyroidism: Weight loss, rapid heartbeat, increased appetite, sweating, nervousness, and tremors.

Recognizing these symptoms early and consulting with a healthcare provider can lead to prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Factors Affecting Thyroid Health

Several factors can impact thyroid health, including:

– Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease can lead to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, respectively.
– Iodine intake: Both too little and too much iodine can disrupt thyroid function.
– Genetics: Family history can play a role in one’s risk of developing thyroid disorders.
– Environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants can affect thyroid health.

Maintaining Thyroid Health

Maintaining thyroid health involves a combination of regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and being aware of risk factors. If you experience symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, it’s essential to seek medical advice. Early detection and treatment can prevent the progression of thyroid disease and maintain quality of life.

The Role of Diet in Thyroid Health

While no diet can cure thyroid disease, certain dietary choices can support thyroid health and alleviate symptoms. Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help. It’s also important to monitor iodine intake, as it’s crucial for thyroid hormone production.

Need To See A Thyroid Doctor Today?

The thyroid may be small, but its impact on your health is immense. Understanding the basics of thyroid function and the importance of maintaining thyroid health are key steps in preventing thyroid-related health issues. By recognizing the symptoms of thyroid dysfunction and adopting a lifestyle that supports thyroid health, you can ensure this vital gland continues to work effectively for you.

A Must Read Obesity Guide Causes Risk Factors Diagnosis And Treatments Thyroid Doctor Tampa

A Must-Read Obesity Guide: Causes, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, And Treatments

By Endocrinology

Obesity is a complex, long-term disease commonly described as having a lot of body mass. Body fat is healthy, but having too much of it could change how the body functions. Obesity progresses over time, and the gradual changes could result in a lot of adverse physical, emotional, and mental health effects.

Causes and Risk Factors

Obesity results from long-term consumption of more calories than the body can burn during daily activities or exercises. While this has always been a problem, it has drastically increased over the past few years because of the increase in fast foods and high-calorie beverages. It has also resulted from less physically demanding jobs and conveniences like online shopping and escalators that do not require physical exertion. However, it is not always about the calories, and the following factors can increase a person’s chances of obesity.

Genetics
Genetic history can affect how the body uses and stores fat or where the fat is distributed. Genetics might also influence how the body converts food into energy, how the body burns calories throughout exercise, and how the body regulates appetite.

Poor lifestyle choices
These can include eating unhealthy foods with a lot of processed fats and sugars or oversized portions. Liquid calories like alcohol and sugared soft drinks also contribute because people can drink a lot without feeling full. Inactivity is another lifestyle choice that limits the number of calories burned, causing the body to turn them into fat.

Diseases
Some diseases could result in weight by affecting the body’s metabolism. They include Cushing syndrome, hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and Prader-Willi syndrome. Conditions like arthritis could also reduce physical activity, resulting in obesity.

Medications
Some medications, like antipsychotics, corticosteroids, antidepressants, beta-blockers, and anti-seizure medications, can result in weight gain.

Hormones
Hormones are key in regulating hunger and sending hunger signals. However, conditions like lack of enough sleep and high stress levels could cause imbalances, leading to higher cravings for high-calorie or sugary foods.

Environment and Community
Environment determines what a person eats and how they spend their time. Therefore, you might have higher chances of getting obese if you live in a place without a lot of nutritious foods but many high-calorie options. There are also high chances if there is no safe place to walk or exercise.

Age
While obesity can occur at any age, old age can result in lower physical activities, hormonal changes, and less muscle mass, which increase obesity chances.

Pregnancy
Weight gain is typical in pregnancy, but some women might find it challenging to lose it after giving birth, which might result in obesity development.

Diagnosis

Body mass index is the first thing Dr. Pedro I Troya will check. It measures the average body weight against the average body height. Dr. Pedro I Troya uses a BMI of over 30 to indicate a patient has obesity, but that does not apply to muscular athletes or bodybuilders. Dr. Pedro I Troya can also use waist circumference readings to diagnose obesity in men or women with a waist circumference over 40 or 35 inches, respectively. The Bay Area Endocrinology Associates team will also review your medical history to understand previous health conditions, weight changes, and current eating, sleeping, and activity patterns.

Many doctors also administer a blood test to determine your cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Other tests you might undergo include a skinfold thickness test, waist-to-hip comparisons, ultrasounds, MRI scans, and dual-energy radiographic absorptiometry scans to measure the amount of body fat accurately and where it is located. You might also undergo diabetes screening, liver function tests, thyroid tests, or heart tests for Dr. Pedro I Troya to diagnose obesity-related illnesses. Doctors can also diagnose obesity in children but about their assigned sex and age. When analyzing children over two years, the BMI must be over 95% of children in the same category.

Obesity Classes

Doctors classify obesity based on the numbers they get from the BMI test.

  • 30 to 35- Class 1 obesity
  • 35 to 40- Class 2 obesity
  • 40 and above- Class 3 obesity (severe, extreme, or morbid obesity)

Complications

Obesity can cause more than excess weight gain. A high body fat-to-muscle ratio exerts a lot of strain on the body’s internal organs and bones. It also causes inflammation, which could result in health complications that can be fatal if not treated.

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Heart disease
  • Fatty liver disease
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Stroke
  • Arthritis
  • Infertility
  • Sleep apnea
  • Kidney disease
  • Back pain
  • Gout
  • Certain cancers like colon, endometrial, breast, cervix, esophagus, kidney, pancreas, or gallbladder cancers

Obesity can also result in other non-physical complications like low self-esteem, depression, mood disorders, and social isolation.

Treatments

Once Dr. Pedro I Troya has diagnosed obesity and reviewed your health and medical history, he will use that information to curate a personalized treatment plan. There are different treatment options based on your overall health and goals.

Dietary changes
This is among the first things Dr. Pedro I Troya will recommend, and he might refer you to a dietitian. The plan might involve changing what you eat or how you eat, but most dietary plans involve including a lot of fruits, vegetables, and whole foods.

Increased activities
This helps in weight reduction and maintenance. Exercises do not always have to mean heavy gym exercises, but you can start with short walks and gradually increase as the body gets used to the activities. Dr. Pedro I Troya advises always working with experts to determine the best exercises and execution.

Behavioral changes
Support groups, cognitive behavioral therapy, and counseling can help implement positive behaviors that help with depression, anxiety, and emotional eating.

Medications
Dr. Pedro I Troya might prescribe different medications based on your goals and the cause of obesity. Medications like Phentermine, Benzphetamine, Diethylpropion, and Phendimetrazine help decrease your appetite. Orlistat helps reduce fat absorption in the gut, Liraglutide helps slow digestion, and Phentermiene-topiramate helps make you feel fuller.

Surgery
You can discuss surgery and ask your doctor if it’s right for you with your doctor. Some choose to undergo surgeries such as gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, gastric band, or duodenal switch.

Get Personalized Obesity Treatment Today

At Bay Area Endocrinology Associates, we are committed to helping clients achieve their health goals using customized and professionally curated treatment plans. Dr. Pedro I Troya also develops a comprehensive weight loss program and takes you through it to determine its effectiveness and identify potential improvement areas. Call us today or visit any of our Bay Area offices for inquiries and bookings.

Thyroid Medication Generic vs Brand Name Thyroid Doctor Tampa

Thyroid Medication: Generic vs Brand Name

By Endocrinology

Is there genuinely a difference between name-brand and generic medication? In short, the answer is yes. Although both are approved by the FDA and the active ingredients are typically the same, the inactive ingredients almost always vary. The primary reason for choosing a generic drug is the price. It is cheaper for patients and pharmacies. This is because non-name brand hormones and medications generally have more variation in quality control and the concentration of active ingredients in the product. Generic brands are also more affordable since they can copy the medication recipe from the name brand without spending money on research and testing.

An increasing problem in the United States is that pharmacies and insurance companies are pushing to prescribe generic medications instead of name brands for severe patient conditions. This is especially true for levothyroxine, a hormone used to treat thyroid issues. These issues include hypothyroidism (a condition in which there is not enough hormone produced from the gland), hyperthyroidism (a condition in which the gland secretes and produces too much hormone), and thyroid cancer. It can also assist in decreasing the size of an enlarged thyroid gland.

For many people, using a generic brand will assist in handling their medical issues without a problem. The slight ingredient change does not affect a large portion of the population. However, there are still cases where a brand-name product is preferred. Generic brand medication usually carries fillers that can change the drug absorbency and use different preservatives from the name brand product. There can also be differences in the formulas and binders that are part of the medications prescribed to patients. These differences could cause a patient not to tolerate their prescribed medication. This fluctuation could also require doctors to adjust and change doses between patient refills or change the prescription medication to a name brand anyway. This causes more work for the doctors and pharmacists and will likely cause more stress for the patient being treated.

It is essential, helpful, and less stressful for patients to receive consistent care when dealing with potentially life-threatening health issues. Having high-quality and clinically proven medication can ensure that patients function at their best with their condition. This includes minimizing potential complications, side effects, and death. A study shares that severe forms of hyperthyroidism can cause various organ failures (including failure of the kidneys and liver) and even potential death.

The most important step for someone with any health issue is to see a doctor for medical help and advice. For these medical issues, patients generally see an endocrinologist. Endocrinologists are specialized internal medicine professionals who treat and diagnose health problems and disorders relating to the body’s hormones and hormonal glands, also known as endocrine disorders. Some of these disorders include metabolic disorders, diabetes, osteoporosis, and thyroid diseases. Endocrinologists may also work with a patient’s primary care physicians to review and discuss treatment plans.

Groups of endocrinologists, such as the Bay Area Endocrinology Associates, have years of medical research and history under their belts. They prioritize the importance of receiving proper medication and high-end medical care and making the already complicated lives of their patients more manageable. The Bay Area Endocrinology Associates specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing endocrine disorders. They also guarantee that their care is personalized for every patient and that their experienced professional care will specialized for each individual. Their website provides resources for patients to review and assess on their own time and a blog that shares information dating back ten years.

All five current Bay Area Endocrinology Associates primary doctors have extensive and educational medical backgrounds. Doctor Pedro I Troya and Doctor Carlos A Fumero are both board-certified through the Diplomate American Board of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism and are both assistant professors of medicine at the University of South Florida College of Medicine. To get the assistance you may need, schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment with Doctor Pedro I Troya.

An image of a woman drinking from a mug and smiling from a blog post on the benefits of using a continuous glucose monitor.

Benefits of Using a Continuous Glucose Monitor

By Endocrinology

Bay Area Endocrinology Associates is a medical practice committed to offering quality treatment and care to those suffering from thyroid conditions. Located In Tampa, Florida, our team led by Doctor Pedro I. Troya is committed to providing good care for thyroid disorders, including cancer, nodules, and hyper and hypothyroidism. We conduct our laboratory testing keenly to ensure accuracy when treating complex metabolic diseases like Obesity, diabetes, and hormone deficiency states, e.g. low testosterone.

What is Continuous Glucose Monitoring?
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a way to track glucose levels throughout the day and night. A tiny sensor inserted under the skin measures glucose levels in the tissue fluid. A transmitter sends data to a monitor, providing real-time glucose readings, trends, and alerts for highs and lows. CGMs can help optimize diabetes management. They can be used alone or with insulin pumps. They provide more information than standard fingerstick testing, but calibration with fingersticks is still needed a few times per day.

Benefits of Using a Continuous Glucose Monitor
Using a CGM provides multiple benefits for diabetes management. It gives real-time data to show how food, exercise, stress, and medications affect blood sugars. This allows for quicker reactions to highs and lows to prevent emergencies. CGMs facilitate better control through pattern management. They provide peace of mind and confidence in numbers. They give clinical data for healthcare providers to enhance therapy adjustments. Overall, CGMs empower patients with information to take a more active role in treatments.

Types of Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems
There are two main types of continuous glucose monitoring systems. Real-time CGMs provide constant data with alerts and alarms. Interstitial fluid is measured every few minutes, and values are transmitted to monitors. Thresholds can be set for alerts on highs and lows. Non-real-time CGMs do not transmit data continuously. Values are recorded over some time. The device must be scanned to obtain glucose reports and trends. This style involves a longer lag time behind blood glucose values. Both CGM styles still require twice daily fingerstick calibrations. Overall, CGMs give people with diabetes better control through glucose pattern management.

Calibrating Your Continuous Glucose Monitor
Calibrating your CGM properly is essential for optimal accuracy and performance. Most CGMs require fingerstick blood glucose measurements twice per day to calibrate sensors. Calibration should be done when glucose is stable, not after meals or exercise. Enter the exact blood glucose reading from the meter for best calibration. Spread calibrations around 12 hours apart. Never calibrate when experiencing symptoms of an inaccurate CGM. If sensor readings seem off, use your blood glucose meter to verify before calibrating. Properly calibrating helps optimize CGM sensor accuracy for reliable data and trends. Taking the time to understand best calibration practices maximizes the benefit of the system.

Interpreting CGM Data and Reports
CGM devices generate significant data that must be analyzed for trends and patterns. The software creates reports on glucose profiles, variability, high and low episodes, and more. The standard deviation shows fluctuations in glucose levels. Low and high glucose indices calculate percentages of readings outside ranges. Ambulatory glucose profiles illustrate patterns over days and weeks. Clarity reports integrate CGM data with insulin doses and carb intake. Understanding these reports allows patients and providers to interpret results better and make appropriate treatment changes.

Improving Accuracy of Continuous Glucose Monitors
While CGMs are very useful tools, accuracy can be affected by sensor issues and physiologic factors. Proper sensor insertion and twice-daily calibration with fingersticks help optimize accuracy. Avoiding sensor compression and allowing healing after insertion sites prevent fluctuations. Accounting for delayed interstitial fluid readings compared to blood prevents miscalculations. Sensors measure glucose in tissue fluid, which lags behind blood by several minutes. Practicing smart sensor use maximizes benefits and accuracy.

Future Outlook for Continuous Glucose Monitoring
CGM technology continues advancing rapidly with significant improvements made yearly. Increased accuracy and duration of sensor wear minimize user effort. More user-friendly, customizable alerts better prevent extreme events. Tighter integration with insulin pumps in closed-loop artificial pancreas systems aims to automate glucose control. Extended capability smart CGMs measure other analytes like ketones. As CGM accuracy and accessibility continue improving, the devices become integral management tools for more people with diabetes seeking tight control. Their future seems very bright.

Continuous glucose monitoring marks a revolutionary advance in diabetes management. The detailed glucose data empowers patients with greater insight and control. Although the technology continues improving, current CGM devices provide invaluable therapy optimization. Utilization of these tools will keep expanding as their accuracy and versatility increase. Contact Bay Area Endocrinology to learn more about Continuous Glucose Monitoring.

An image of a mother and her chilunder trees, the mother holding a pinwill and the son another toy, in a blog about continuous glucose monitoring

Benefits of Using a Continuous Glucose Monitor

By Endocrinology

Bay Area Endocrinology Associates is a medical practice committed to offering good treatment and care to those suffering from thyroid conditions. Located In Tampa, Florida, our team led by Doctor Pedro I. Troya is committed to providing exemplary care for thyroid disorders, including cancer, nodules, and hyper and hypothyroidism. We conduct our laboratory testing keenly to ensure accuracy when treating complex metabolic diseases like Obesity, diabetes, and hormone deficiency states, e.g. low testosterone. Look at the page on this month’s topic, November 2023: Continuous Glucose Monitoring.

What is Continuous Glucose Monitoring?

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a way to track glucose levels throughout the day and night. A tiny sensor inserted under the skin measures glucose levels in the tissue fluid. A transmitter sends data to a monitor. This provides real-time glucose readings, trends, and alerts for highs and lows. It can help optimize diabetes management. CGMs can be used alone or with insulin pumps. They provide more information than standard fingerstick testing, but calibration with fingersticks is still needed a few times per day.

Benefits of Using a Continuous Glucose Monitor

Using a CGM provides multiple benefits for diabetes management. It gives real-time data to show how food, exercise, stress, and medications affect blood sugars. This allows for quicker reactions to highs and lows to prevent emergencies. CGMs facilitate better control through pattern management. They provide peace of mind and confidence in numbers. They give clinical data for healthcare providers to enhance therapy adjustments. Overall, CGMs empower patients with information to take a more active role in treatments.

Types of Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems

There are two main types of continuous glucose monitoring systems. Real-time CGMs provide constant data with alerts and alarms. Interstitial fluid is measured every few minutes, and values are transmitted to monitors. Thresholds can be set for alerts on highs and lows. Non-real-time CGMs do not transmit data continuously. Values are recorded over some time. The device must be scanned to obtain glucose reports and trends. This style involves a longer lag time behind blood glucose values. Both CGM styles still require twice daily fingerstick calibrations. Overall, CGMs give people with diabetes better control through glucose pattern management.

Calibrating Your Continuous Glucose Monitor

Calibrating your CGM properly is essential for optimal accuracy and performance. Most CGMs require fingerstick blood glucose measurements twice per day to calibrate sensors. Calibration should be done when glucose is stable, not after meals or exercise. Enter the exact blood glucose reading from the meter for best calibration. Spread calibrations around 12 hours apart. Never calibrate when experiencing symptoms of an inaccurate CGM. If sensor readings seem off, use your blood glucose meter to verify before calibrating. Properly calibrating helps optimize CGM sensor accuracy for reliable data and trends. Taking the time to understand best calibration practices maximizes the benefit of the system.

Interpreting CGM Data and Reports

CGM devices generate significant data that must be analyzed for trends and patterns. The software creates reports on glucose profiles, variability, high and low episodes, and more. The standard deviation shows fluctuations in glucose levels. Low and high glucose indices calculate percentages of readings outside ranges. Ambulatory glucose profiles illustrate patterns over days and weeks. Clarity reports integrate CGM data with insulin doses and carb intake. Understanding these reports allows patients and providers to interpret results better and make appropriate treatment changes.

Improving Accuracy of Continuous Glucose Monitors

While CGMs are very useful tools, accuracy can be affected by sensor issues and physiologic factors. Proper sensor insertion and twice-daily calibration with fingersticks help optimize accuracy. Avoiding sensor compression and allowing healing after insertion sites prevent fluctuations. Accounting for delayed interstitial fluid readings compared to blood prevents miscalculations. Sensors measure glucose in tissue fluid, which lags behind blood by several minutes. Practicing smart sensor use maximizes benefits and accuracy.

Future Outlook for Continuous Glucose Monitoring

CGM technology continues to advance rapidly, with significant improvements made yearly. Increased accuracy and duration of sensor wear minimize user effort. More user-friendly, customizable alerts better prevent extreme events. Tighter integration with insulin pumps in closed-loop artificial pancreas systems aims to automate glucose control. Extended capability smart CGMs measure other analytes like ketones. As CGM accuracy and accessibility continue improving, the devices become integral management tools for more people with diabetes seeking tight control. Their future seems very bright.

Continuous glucose monitoring marks a revolutionary advance in diabetes management. The detailed glucose data empowers patients with greater insight and control. Although the technology continues improving, current CGM devices provide invaluable therapy optimization. Utilization of these tools will keep expanding as their accuracy and versatility increase. Reach out to Bay area Endocrinology Associates today to learn more about continuous glucose monitoring.

An image of a joyful woman, hands raised, framed by trees, in a blog post by Bay Area Endocrinology about Thyroid Nodules.

Thyroid Nodules: A Guide to Detection, Diagnosis, and Treatment

By Endocrinology

Abnormal growths or lumps can form within the thyroid gland, causing nodules. These nodules can grow and be noticeable since they’re located in the front of the neck. Most people automatically think these growths are cancerous, but not all nodules are malignant. The lumps vary significantly in size; some are hard, while others are filled with gel or fluid-like substances. These nodules have different causes and characteristics, and while some are cancerous, many are benign. There’s no reason to be alarmed if you lump your neck, as they usually don’t cause significant health problems. However, you must have these nodules checked by an endocrinologist and monitored continuously. Since there is a potential for cancer, a doctor must give a thorough evaluation to ensure there’s no danger.

Different Types of Nodules

There are numerous nodules, each with unique characteristics and risk factors. At Bay Area Endocrinology Associates, we see all sorts of nodes in the neck, and here are some of the ones that we commonly treat in our office.

•Colloid: The most common nodule is the colloid. These growths are very slow and occur over an extended period. They grow deep within the follicles and are made of a gel-like substance.
•Cystic nodes: These are little fluid-filled sacks. When the growth reaches a certain size, it becomes a lump or cyst. In most instances, cysts are not dangerous and nothing to worry about, though they can grow large enough to cause discomfort and must be removed.
•Inflammatory Response: Inflammation can wreak havoc on the body. Autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis bring about these changes. It’s often called chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, which occurs when the body attacks and destroys the tissues within this vital gland. The destruction causes inflammatory responses, which causes these lumps to grow.
• Iodine Deficiency/Abundance: Too much or too little iodine in your system can cause nodules. The thyroid needs minerals to produce hormones, and lumps form when there is either a deficiency or an abundance. We don’t see many cases here, as these are primarily seen in regions with low-iodine diets.

Risk Factors

Many factors contribute to the formation of nodules, and one of the major components is genetics. If your parents had these lumps in their necks, you have a greater chance of developing them. A family history of these disorders always increases the chances of complications and is something that a doctor will evaluate. Here are some other risk factors to consider.

1. Hormonal Changes
Any change in hormone levels within the body can cause lumps and bumps to form. Women are especially susceptible because changes in progesterone and estrogen are common. Hormones significantly impact this gland’s function, and levels that are out of whack can cause nodule growth.

Women are more likely to develop these growths during pregnancy or menopause as their hormone levels fluctuate. Additionally, it’s more common for a lady to develop them after the age of 60, as estrogen levels plummet.

2. Smoking
There are many dangers to smoking, but most people associate those dangers with lung and mouth issues. However, all the glands and organs in the body are affected by the toxins absorbed by smoking. Many studies have shown that nodules and thyroid cancer occur more frequently in smokers.

3. Radiation Exposure
Children and young adults exposed to high radiation levels are more likely to develop nodules when they are older. There are many ways to be exposed to radiation, and the amount in a simple X-ray is usually insufficient to warrant such lumps.

Remember that nodules can be benign or cancerous, and an endocrinologist should evaluate any neck changes. The treatment will depend on the nodule’s size, exact location, and accompanying symptoms.

What Are the Effects of Thyroid Nodules on Your Well-Being?

Since there’s so much variation in the nodules and their size, the impact they have on you can also vary. Some people have no symptoms, while others might have pain or problems swallowing food. Here are some symptoms we typically see with these lumps.

•Neck Discomfort: One of the most common issues is neck discomfort. When the nodule grows and puts pressure on the area, it can cause varied pain levels.
•Swallowing Issues: When the nodule becomes large, it puts pressure against the esophagus and challenges swallowing.
•Breathing Difficulty: A large nodule can press against the trachea and cause breathing complications.
•Voice Changes: The laryngeal nerve is in the neck, so a larger lump can press on this nerve and make the voice raspy or hoarse.
•Hormonal Imbalances: The most common problem observed with nodules is they cause an imbalance in hormone levels. An excessive amount of production can lead to hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. People with these issues might have an increased heart rate, anxiety, weight loss, temperature intolerance, depression, constipation, and fatigue.

Should Nodules Be Removed?

Many factors influence a doctor’s decision to remove or leave a nodule alone. Tests must be run to determine the nodule’s size and exact location, whether it’s complicating breathing or swallowing, and whether it’s cancerous. Our endocrinologist will perform diagnostic tests such as blood work, fine-needle aspiration biopsy, and ultrasounds. He may recommend surgery, medication, or other interventions based on the specific circumstances.

If you have a nodule in your neck or ongoing thripid issues, an endocrinologist must evaluate you. At Bay Area Endocrinology, Dr. Pedro I Troya specializes in thyroid gland disorders and has in-depth knowledge of nodules. Consulting with an experienced health professional can give you a thorough evaluation and guidance on the best course of treatment for your case. Contact us today at www.thyroiddoctortampa.com.

A woman laughing and holding a cellphone with trees in the background, from a blog post on testosterone deficiency

The World of Testosterone Deficiency: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

By Endocrinology

The Symptoms of low testosterone
Dr. Pedro Troya, a board-certified endocrinologist with Bay Area Endroconoligy has seen his fair share of Testosterone Deficiency in his patient treatment regime.  As noted by The Jama Network published by the American Medical Association, 7 percent of men over 50 are affected by low testosterone, which can result in a number of problems such as decreased muscle mass, depression, decrease in bone strength, increase of fat, decrease in libido and more.

However, contrary to public opinion, testosterone is not for bodybuilders, and in fact, it is just the opposite. According to Web MD an endocrinologist like Dr. Troya will only prescribe hormone treatments after blood levels confirm there is a genuine need to attempt to actually boost testosterone levels in both men and women. And yes, women sometimes need testosterone treatment to ensure they have adequate bone density. Bone density is extremely important for both older men and women as a lack of bone density can result in serious medical conditions resulting from falls such as breaking one’s hip bones. Also, a small percentage of male children are considered for testosterone therapy when a lack of the hormone begins to hinder their sexual development during puberty.

The causes of low testosterone
Quite naturally, just as there are diverse patients with low testosterone, there are different causes. For example, in young men with underdeveloped sexual organs, the primary reasons are either an injury to the testicles or some kind of disease experience such as mumps which may have the side effect of causing what is known as hypogonadism. In adult men, on the opposite end of the scale, men lost around 1 to 2 percent per year of their testosterone after around age 30. However, that 1 or 2 percent can significantly add up after a man reaches age 50, and if his testosterone was a bit on the low side to begin with, all the symptoms described earlier may pile up.

Oddly, women, although to a lesser extent than men, often experience the same symptoms as older men, and a doctor such as Dr. Troya may prescribe testosterone treatments for women for many of the same problems as men including hair loss, low-sex drive, lethargy and lack of energy, irregular periods, painful and dry lubrication during sex, depression and difficulty conceiving. You can see then, that testosterone therapy is not a one-size fits all regime. Your doctor must constantly monitor your blood and evaluate how the treatments are progressing, after all, all hormones, including testosterone are a constantly shifting and evolving process.

Like any hormone therapy, there can be side effects, the most common including rashes, itching, or irritation. However, there are other, more serious side effects that include sleep apnea, a higher risk of prostate cancer, difficulty urinating, and blood clots. All of the above indicates that you need an experienced doctor such as those at Bay Area Encronoligy to not only assess whether you are a good candidate for testosterone treatment but also that consistent monitoring takes place for your treatment regime. Never, under any circumstances, take any kind of testosterone booster on your own volition. In fact, clearly indicate to your doctor any type of diet supplement you may have taken to treat the symptom on your own. In actuality, many of those supplements, and certainly any kind of “undercover” testosterone injections may indeed be quite dangerous.

How do you fix testosterone deficiency?
Endrononolists such as those at the Bay Area Endroconligy Associates have a wide variety of tools at their disposal. These include:

  • Testosterone Patches
  • Testosterone Gels
  • Testosterone Mouth Patches
  • Testosterone Implants
  • Testosterone Injections

You need to consult a trained endocrinologist to explore all of your options and with your doctor’s help, choose the right testosterone treatment that is right for not only your lifestyle but your symptoms.  Undoubtedly, this short blog will lead to more questions than to answers. Testosterone therapy, as described earlier, is not just a one-size-fits-all treatment regime, but rather something that is individually tailored to you.

To find out how we treat this condition and explore all your options, contact us at our Tampa Office , where we will be happy to answer all your questions, including other questions you may have about common experiences such as your thyroid problems.

A delightful image captures a happy couple on a porch, featured in a blog discussing the procedure of Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy for the Thyroid and Neck Lymph Nodes.

Uncovering the Truth Behind Lumps: Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy of the Thyroid and Neck Lymph Nodes

By Endocrinology

An integral component of understanding thyroid health lies in understanding diagnostic procedures. One such procedure is an Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy of Thyroid and Neck Lymph Nodes (FNA), an often-preferred method for diagnosing abnormalities in these areas.

What is an Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy of the Thyroid and Neck Lymph Nodes?

FNA biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure for diagnosing conditions affecting the thyroid gland and neck lymph nodes. The term ‘biopsy’ derives from two Greek words meaning life and sight, respectively. Thus, it gives us a look inside life itself through insight into our internal structures, which helps in medical decision-making.

An FNA biopsy utilizes a thin, hollow needle to extract cells or fluid from your gland or neck lymph nodes for examination under a microscope. While its size may seem small, it is impactful. Physicians can access targeted areas quickly to retrieve samples to be examined under a microscope for signs of malignancies or abnormalities that might exist in these samples.

An essential feature of this procedure is ultrasound guidance. Real-time images provided by ultrasound allow real-time visuals of internal structures of the neck, giving real-time visualizations and precise needle navigation into target areas. By accurately pinpointing nodules or lumps, damage to surrounding tissues is decreased dramatically.

Once samples have been extracted, they’re taken to a pathology lab, where they undergo meticulous scrutiny by an expert pathologist. The expert evaluates each cell structure and composition closely, searching for signs of malignancy or any abnormalities. This step of analysis forms the backbone of the diagnostic process and enables us to select an ideal course of treatment for each individual patient.

Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy of Thyroid and Neck Lymph Nodes is a fundamental element in modern medicine’s arsenal. It provides valuable insight into the glands and neck lymph node conditions while providing a basis for further treatment strategies.

Is an Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy in the Neck Painful?

Medical procedures often cause discomfort or pain for patients. An FNA biopsy of thyroid and neck lymph nodes is no exception. Yet, most reports indicate that it is relatively painless due to its minimally invasive nature and use of local anesthesia.

Before conducting a biopsy, physicians typically apply a local anesthetic to numb the area where a biopsy will take place. Initially, this may cause a slight stinging sensation similar to when receiving an insect bite. But once effective, the area will become numb, and any discomfort during the biopsy should significantly diminish.

A biopsy needle is typically very thin compared to those commonly used for regular injections or blood draws, so its insertion typically goes almost unnoticed by patients. Some may feel slight pressure or discomfort as soon as it reaches its intended site of action. Severe pain should rarely arise.

Post-procedure, any discomfort typically dissipates quickly, and patients can typically return to their regular activities within the same day. You must inform your healthcare provider of any concerns or discomfort experienced during or after their procedure. This will help them provide additional support or interventions to make this experience as comfortable as possible.

How Long Does It Take?

Although times for an Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy can differ depending on individual circumstances, the procedure typically lasts about 20–30 minutes.

The biopsy procedure is typically quick and efficient, taking only minutes to perform. However, most of the time is taken up by pre-procedure setup, which is key for its success.

Initial steps involve positioning ultrasound equipment appropriately based on each patient’s anatomy. The proceeding step involves cleaning and sterilizing the area for biopsies to avoid infection. This is done before providing local anesthesia to numb it during the procedure and ensure maximum patient comfort.

While these preparation steps may appear time-consuming, they are absolutely vital to ensure the accuracy and safety of a biopsy procedure. At Bay Area Endocrinology Associates, our doctors abide by strict protocols to guarantee high-quality care for every client.

Noteworthy is also that post-procedure patients will typically be observed for a brief time to ensure no immediate adverse reactions. Nevertheless, most can resume normal daily activities within hours or immediately afterward.

Understanding the length and process of an FNA biopsy procedure can help ease any anxiety surrounding its performance. At Bay Area Endocrinology Associates, Doctor Pedro Troya and the team are committed to patient education and communication. So, if any additional queries arise about its duration or process, don’t hesitate to contact us.

When Is It Necessary To Have This Procedure Done?

FNA biopsies of these procedures may be recommended when a physician notices nodules or lumps that warrant further investigation. This could be noticed during routine physical exams or while investigating symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or neck swelling.

Ultrasound can help identify nodules’ sizes, locations, and composition (solid or cystic). Unfortunately, ultrasound cannot accurately diagnose malignancy. An FNA biopsy must be conducted on any suspicious nodule to examine its cells and confirm or rule out cancer presence or absence. Additionally, it’s often used to evaluate unexplained lymph node enlargement in the neck.

Remind yourself that the goal is not to cause alarm but rather to ensure the health of your thyroid and neck lymph nodes is not compromised. Early diagnosis greatly increases treatment success rates as well as patient prognoses.

Bay Area Endocrinology Associates can help if you’ve discovered a lump in your neck or have experienced symptoms that concern you. Led by experienced endocrinologist Doctor Pedro Troya, our team is committed to providing comprehensive care from evaluation through treatment of the glads and other endocrine conditions. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for additional information regarding Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy or discuss any concerns over your health.

A photo of a senior man riding a bike, smiling, with the ocean in the background for a blog post that discusses pituitary disorders.

Demystifying Pituitary Disorders: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

By Endocrinology

Pituitary disorders are considered rare condition. According to research, the condition affects 70 to 90 people out of 100,000. This disease occurs when the pituitary gland produces too many or few hormones that act on nearly all parts of the body.

The pituitary disorder can cause a wide range of medical conditions, such as prolactinoma (PRL), Cushing’s disease (CD), clinically non-functioning pituitary adenoma (NFA), or acromegaly (ACRO). Learn more about pituitary disorder signs, diagnosis causes, and when to call a doctor.

What are the Signs That Your Pituitary Gland Is Not Working Properly?
When the pituitary gland is not functioning correctly, you may experience various symptoms that will make you feel some changes in your body. The signs depend on the disorder, affected hormones, how fast they appear, and the cause and location.

Some people may experience sudden and dramatic symptoms, while others may have no symptoms or may be gradual. Here are the symptoms that affect people with pituitary disorders.
GH (Growth Hormone) Deficiency-Affects children and adults. Symptoms in children include poor growth, fat around the waist and face, and short height. Adult symptoms are weight gain, reduced muscle mass, decreased energy in the body, decreased strength, anxiety, and depression.
ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic) Deficiency-Common symptoms are depression, nausea, body weakness, fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and vomiting.
FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) and LH Luteinizing Hormone (LH) deficiency-Symptoms include stopped menstrual periods and infertility in women. Men experience erectile dysfunction, lack of interest in sex, facial hair loss, and weakness.
Oxytocin Hormone deficiency- Signs include low sex drive, pale skin, feeling socially isolated, depression, cold hands and feet, and challenges with breastfeeding women due to low milk production.
Prolactin Deficiency- This symptom affects women, including a lack of breast milk production after giving birth.
Other symptoms may include hair loss, high blood pressure, vision changes, headaches, irritability, easy bruising, seizures, drooping eyelids, and thickening of the skull.

Pituitary disorder symptoms may be similar to those of other diseases. Some people may not experience any of the above symptoms. This is why it’d be best to seek medical advice from a qualified doctor if you experience any unusual changes in the body.

How Is Pituitary Disease Diagnosed?
In most cases, pituitary symptoms aren’t noticed or detected because they are similar to those of other diseases. At Thyroid Doctor | Bay Area Endocrinology Associates, our doctors, led by Dr. Pedro I Troya, are highly experienced in diagnosing pituitary disorders.

Our physicians will perform specialized tests to determine the underlying issue and advise you accordingly. You can count on our doctors to get suitable answers to your condition with an effective treatment plan to relieve your symptoms. Diagnosis of pituitary disorder usually involves various tests and scans. Here are ways to diagnose the pituitary disorder.

Blood Tests
Doctors conduct blood tests to detect whether there are many or few specific hormones in your body associated with pituitary disorders. In most cases, a healthcare provider diagnoses pituitary disorder when the blood tests show too many hormones that occur in a condition called hyperprolactinemia.

If a blood test shows a hormone such as cortisol, the specialist may have to conduct other tests to determine whether the earlier test result is a pituitary disorder or another health condition. In other cases, when a blood test shows very low hormones, the specialist may need to conduct other tests like imaging exams to determine if pituitary adenoma is the cause of the test results.

The physician may also conduct a blood test if the patient has enlarged hands and feet since this could indicate increased levels of growth hormone.

MRI Scan
Doctors use MRI scans to analyze the body’s organs and tissues and diagnose the possibility of pituitary disorders. Brain scans can help doctors determine the location and size of a pituitary tumor.
Doctors can also use the results of this scan to check if the tumor is near the tissue. The physician may inject the patient with a contrast agent in an arm vein to enhance the images during the scan.

Vision Tests
A pituitary disorder can affect peripheral vision. When a patient visits a doctor, they may need to undergo a vision test so that the doctor can determine how well they can see and conduct other tests that can help them detect a pituitary tumor.

During the test, the physician will ask the patient to find light areas on the screen using each eye. If you have eyesight problems or the specialist rules out a pituitary tumor after analyzing the symptoms, you may need to undergo vision tests.

What Is The Cause(s) Of Pituitary Disorders?
Pituitary disorders mainly occur due to noncancerous tumors and may affect thyroid functioning, adrenal functioning, and sexual development. This occurs due to uncontrolled cell growth in the pituitary gland, which makes the body produce too many or too few hormones. In some cases, though rare, pituitary disorders may occur due to inherited genes. Other causes of the pituitary disorder may include
• Head injury
• Traumatic brain injury
• Meningitis
• Surgery
• Radiation
• Tuberculosis
• Sarcoidosis
• Bleeding in the brain
• Severe loss of blood after childbirth
Other patients may also experience inflammation due to abnormal responses to the immune system, stroke, damage to the pituitary gland, or severe uterine bleeding during childbirth. Sometimes, the doctor may refer you to an endocrinologist for more tests. Dr. Pedro I Troya from Thyroid Doctor | Bay Area Endocrinology Associates can offer support and effective information about the causes of a pituitary disorder.

Seek Medical Attention Today
Qualified doctors can examine your condition and conduct tests and scans depending on the underlying cause and symptoms. Thyroid Doctor | Bay Area Endocrinology Associates, located in the Bay Area in Tampa, FL, specialize in all thyroid conditions, including cancer, nodules, hyper, and hypothyroidism. We conduct thyroid ultrasounds, biopsies, and lab tests within our facility and also treat other complex metabolism conditions such as obesity and diabetes. Our obesity treatment includes a weight loss program and hormone-deficient states such as low testosterone. We operate in multiple locations within the Bay Area for convenient access. If you have any of the above symptoms, contact our Tampa practice today for help.

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