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The first vocabulary hurdle for discussing thyroid issues
is remembering that hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid, and hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid. Now that that's out of the way, take a look at these
three important terms:
Endocrinologist: These physicians specialize in glands and hormone issues.
In addition to thyroid conditions, endocrinologists also get involved in
treating diabetes,
metabolic disease and osteoporosis.
TSH:
Blood tests that diagnose thyroid disease measure the levels of
thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). A high level of TSH in the bloodstream is a
sign of an underactive thyroid, and, in turn, TSH deficiency indicates
hyperthyroidism.
Adrenal
glands:
While the adrenals sit atop the kidneys, far from the thyroid, their role in
hormone distribution means they have a strong relationship with the thyroid
glands. Because thyroid disorders throw hormone levels out of balance, it's
crucial to watch adrenal function as well, since these glands produce hormones
including adrenaline and cortisol.
By Daniel Halperin, published January 25, 2011. Daniel is a freelance writer based in New York City. Reviewed by: Joseph Palermo, D.O. Board Certificate: Internal Medicine/Geriatric Medicine Licensure: WA#OP00000836 Reviewed on 10/3/18 Statistics have been verified
