Nearly 34% of Texans struggle with their weight. The team at Family Practice, PA, in Hitchcock, Texas, understands the difficulty you may face when it comes to weight management. Whether it’s an issue with your thyroid or another factor that’s making it hard for you to lose unwanted pounds, the team at Family Practice, PA, can help. Call today or book an appointment online to get started.
The thyroid is a small endocrine gland located in your neck that produces and secretes hormones, referred to as thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate your metabolism and heart rate. That means these hormones play an important role in weight management.
There are a number of medical conditions associated with the thyroid, including:
Thyroid problems can affect anyone but are most common in women over age 60.
If you’re struggling to lose weight, have unexplained weight loss, or are feeling rundown, you might want to schedule an appointment to see the doctor so he can evaluate your thyroid and run a blood test. The clinic has an on-site lab, so there’s no need to go to another facility for your blood work.
The thyroid is a key player in the regulation of your metabolism. If your thyroid levels are low, your metabolism slows down. Hypothyroidism is the medical term for an underactive thyroid.
Hypothyroidism is most often the result of an autoimmune disorder known as Hashimoto's disease. This autoimmune disorder causes your body’s own immune system to attack and destroy the cells in your thyroid, making it difficult to produce hormones. Treatment includes thyroid replacement medication.
Hypothyroidism usually causes weight gain and can make weight loss very difficult. Paying close attention to diet and finding time for regular activity is an important part of the treatment plan for people with hypothyroidism.
In addition to the effects it has on your self-esteem, carrying around excess body weight also increases your risk of developing a number of chronic illnesses, including:
Obesity may also affect your ability to get around, which impacts your quality of life.
Losing as little as 5% of your current body weight offers a number of health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and cholesterol and improving blood sugar levels.
As medical professionals who focus on the whole body, our team understands that in addition to helping with what to eat, you need guidance and support to reach your weight-loss goals.
Whether it’s concerns about your thyroid or you’re struggling to get your weight under control, The team at Family Practice, PA, can help. Call or book an appointment online today.
