The thyroid gland produces hormones that are essential to the proper functioning of vital organs such as your brain, heart, kidneys, and liver. Among other things, these hormones play key roles in metabolism (the process by which you get energy from food). As you get older, you’re more likely to develop thyroid disorders.
Here are questions you can ask your healthcare provider about thyroid problems.
- Should I have a blood test to check the function of my thyroid gland?
- I am taking thyroid hormone medication. How often should I have a blood test to check if my dose of thyroid hormone is right for me?
- I was told I may have an overactive thyroid gland. Do I need to have any other tests, such as a thyroid nuclear medicine scan, to help figure out what is wrong with my thyroid gland?
- Could my medications be causing a problem with my thyroid gland?
- I was told I have an overactive thyroid gland and that can be treated with medications, surgery, or radioactive iodine. Given my age and other health issues, what is the best choice of treatment for me?