Why choose Geisinger for Hashimoto’s disease care?
When you’re managing Hashimoto’s disease, your support should look at the full picture: your symptoms, lab results, lifestyle and long-term goals. Here, you can find guidance and support to feel better and stay balanced throughout treatment.
Your thyroid team will make sure you get what you need — from open communication to monitoring and medication management. Your doctor will tell you how often you’ll need lab work. And when the results come back, we’ll be available to answer questions and adjust treatment, if necessary.
Count on us for care that goes beyond prescriptions. With ongoing follow-up care that adapts with you, we’ll work toward thyroid hormone stability as you make your way to better health.
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FAQs
What is the thyroid?
Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of your throat. It produces hormones that affect your heart rate, breathing, muscle strength, body temperature, body weight and cholesterol. They even influence your central nervous system.
The 2 key thyroid hormones that regulate the way your body uses energy are:
- Thyroxine, also known as T4
- Triiodothyronine, known as T3
What is Hashimoto’s disease?
What are the symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease?
Symptoms of Hashimoto’s can include:
- Sensitivity to cold
- Unintentional weight gain
- Brittle nails and hair
- Hair loss
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Changes in mood
- Puffy face
What are the risk factors for Hashimoto’s disease?
Genetics, age and health and family history can all increase your risk for developing Hashimoto’s disease. Risk factors include:
- Family history of a thyroid condition, such as Graves’ disease or Hashimoto’s disease
- Being older than 60
- Being female
- Pregnancy
- Previous thyroid surgery
- A low-iodine diet
- History of an autoimmune condition or conditions
How do you diagnose Hashimoto’s disease?
Some of the diagnostic tests your doctor may perform to test for Hashimoto’s include:
- Blood tests: These include a thyroid panel that measures how well your thyroid is working.
- Thyroid ultrasound: An ultrasound takes an image of your thyroid and throat area using sound waves.
- Imaging tests: Diagnostic imaging tests, such as MRIs, CT scans and PET scans, produce detailed pictures of your thyroid gland and throat area.
How do you treat Hashimoto’s disease?
Depending on the type and severity of your condition, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Lifestyle changes
- Medications
- Surgery
Hashimoto’s disease care at Geisinger
Find comprehensive, compassionate care from our thyroid specialists. We offer:
- Care designed for you, where you live: Get a consultation near you at locations throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania. We offer treatment options backed by the expertise and innovation of a nationally recognized health system.
- Comprehensive specialty care: Our thyroid team, made up of endocrinologists, surgeons and specialists, offers treatment options and holistic, tailored-to-you care. We’ll work with you to develop a care plan based on your needs and preferences.
- Genetic testing and counseling programs: Research programs like the MyCode® Community Health Initiative are only available at Geisinger. Contribute to genetic research by participating in MyCode, which may give you information about your own genetic risks.