A thyroid specialist or endocrinologist specializes in addressing issues related to the thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism. So, you may be recommended a visit to a thyroid specialist clinic in Singapore if you experience thyroid issues symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or mood swings.
Thanks to their specialized training, you can count on a thyroid specialist to pinpoint potential thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. We created this article to address the question; what happens when you see a thyroid specialist? But first;
When should you see a Thyroid Specialist?
As is the case with other diseases and complications, timely management of thyroid disorders allows for the best treatment outcomes. So, if you’re worried about thyroid disorders you may want to ask; when should you see a thyroid specialist?
You should see a thyroid specialist if you’re still getting thyroid disorder symptoms despite being on medication. This is important because there are instances when it may be difficult to get the right concentration of thyroid hormone medication that gives the best treatment outcomes.
In such situations, a qualified thyroid specialist in Singapore can help you get a tailored treatment plan for the best outcomes. Here are five more indicators it is time to see a thyroid specialist;
● Having a Thyroid Nodule or Lump
A lump or nodule on your thyroid may be benign. However, their presence warrants an appointment with a thyroid specialist for examination.
This examination is important considering that approximately 4 to 6.5 percent of thyroid nodules are cancerous. Rarely, these nodules can lead to hypothyroidism but early assessment by a specialist is crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.
● Pituitary Gland Disorder and Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism that comes from a pituitary gland disorder is uncommon. However, if it occurs, it demands immediate attention.
An assessment may be recommended because it is the pituitary gland that is tasked with the controlled release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH is vital for thyroid hormone production and when its secretion falters you may need the help of your thyroid specialist in Singapore for tailored treatment and management.
● Enlarged Thyroid Gland (Goiter)
While goiters are quite common and typically not dangerous, their presence warrants consultation with an endocrinologist. Regardless of hypothyroidism, it is best to determine the reason for the enlargement of your thyroid gland.
An experienced thyroid specialist cannot only help you understand the underlying issues. They can also help you tailor an effective treatment plan to ensure comprehensive thyroid health management.
● Pregnancy or Trying to Conceive
Pregnancy significantly impacts thyroid function which makes it crucial for those with an underactive thyroid to seek guidance from a thyroid specialist if pregnant or trying to conceive.
You may need close monitoring and potential adjustments to thyroid hormone medication during pregnancy. This is important as the risk of miscarriage is higher with untreated hypothyroidism.
● Unexplained Thyroid-Related Symptoms
Persistent symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or mood swings, even with normal thyroid function tests shouldn’t be casually ignored. They necessitate consultation with your thyroid specialist in Singapore.
Seeking professional evaluation ensures a comprehensive understanding of your thyroid health. It also gives you the best chances of tailored medication for the best treatment outcomes.
What Happens when you see a Thyroid Specialist?
As is the case with other medical specialists, seeing your thyroid specialist in Singapore for the first time may be tinged with a bit of anxiety. Essentially, this is why many people ask; what happens when you see a thyroid specialist?
One of the key things that happen when you see a thyroid specialist is a thorough medical review. When meeting the specialist, they will begin by reviewing your medical history which may include discussing your symptoms, past illnesses and family history, etc.
Understanding your health history allows the specialist to recognize patterns, potential triggers, or genetic factors that could influence your thyroid health. This initial step ensures a holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment, addressing individual nuances. It also helps lay the foundations for personalized treatment plans. Here are a few more things that may happen when you visit a qualified thyroid specialist in Singapore;
● Detailed Physical Examination
Following the discussion, your thyroid specialist may proceed to conduct a thorough physical examination which may involve palpating the thyroid gland in the neck to check for abnormalities, swelling, or nodules. Also, the specialist may check for other physical signs, like changes in skin, hair, and nails.
The physical examination complements the medical history. It allows for tangible insights into the thyroid’s condition. Detecting any physical anomalies helps the specialist formulate a more accurate diagnosis and tailor interventions to specific observations.
● Laboratory Tests for Hormone Levels
To obtain precise insights, your thyroid specialist may also request blood tests to measure hormone levels. These tests evaluate levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3).
Abnormalities in these levels can indicate hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or other thyroid disorders. Laboratory results are used as critical diagnostic markers.
They guide the specialist in determining the type and severity of thyroid dysfunction. With this data-driven approach, the specialists have the best chances of ensuring the accuracy of diagnosis. It also favors the development of targeted treatment plans.
● Imaging Studies
In certain cases, a thyroid ultrasound or other imaging studies may be recommended. Ultrasound provides a detailed view of the thyroid gland’s structure.
It can be used in identifying nodules, cysts, or inflammation. To assess thyroid function, your thyroid specialist in Singapore may recommend scans, like a thyroid uptake test.
Imaging studies also offer a visual representation of the thyroid’s condition. So, they may also be used in the identification of structural abnormalities that might not be apparent during a physical examination alone.
● Treatment Planning
After a thorough evaluation, a good thyroid specialist will ensure that you’re involved in tailoring your treatment plan. This may involve medication, lifestyle modifications, or, in certain cases, surgical intervention.
The specialist should educate you on the prescribed treatment, potential side effects, and long-term management strategies.
Closing Thoughts
There are several things that can happen when seeing a thyroid specialist in Singapore. The most important thing is a comprehensive approach to diagnosing thyroid disorders accurately and designing effective personalized treatment plans for the best possible health outcomes.
We understand how complex it can be to manage thyroid problems. That’s why we offer thorough assessment and tailored treatment plans for optimal health outcomes. To learn more about our services or schedule your assessment, please call or visit our clinic in Singapore at;
Ace Specialist Surgery and Endoscopy
3 Mt Elizabeth #15-14
Mt Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
(65) 6737 1800
OR
Gleneagles Medical Centre
6 Napier Road, #05-02
Singapore 258499
(65) 6252 1800