Expert Thyroid Care in Central Texas

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormone, which can slow the body’s metabolism and lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces too much hormone, causing symptoms such as weight loss, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, tremors, and heat intolerance.

Normal thyroid lab results do not always explain symptoms. Fatigue and weight gain may also be related to insulin resistance, poor sleep, stress, menopause, nutritional deficiencies, or other hormone and metabolic conditions. A comprehensive endocrine evaluation can help identify other contributing factors.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Over time, this damage can reduce thyroid hormone production and lead to hypothyroidism. It is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States.

The initial evaluation typically includes a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) blood test. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, additional testing may include Free T4, Free T3, thyroid antibody testing, and a thyroid ultrasound to evaluate the structure of the thyroid gland. At Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology, on-site thyroid ultrasound is available to provide a comprehensive evaluation without the need for referral to another facility.

Yes. Both an overactive and underactive thyroid can affect mood, energy, concentration, and emotional well-being. Treating the underlying thyroid condition may improve these symptoms, although other medical or mental health conditions should also be considered.

Thyroid nodules are common growths that develop within the thyroid gland. Most are benign and do not cause symptoms, but some require additional evaluation with ultrasound and, in certain cases, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy to rule out thyroid cancer.

It depends on the underlying thyroid condition. Many people with hypothyroidism, particularly those with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or after thyroid surgery, require lifelong thyroid hormone replacement. Other thyroid disorders may require only temporary treatment or ongoing monitoring.

You should consider seeing an endocrinologist if you have persistent thyroid symptoms, abnormal thyroid blood tests, thyroid nodules, an enlarged thyroid, autoimmune thyroid disease, difficulty finding the right medication dose, or ongoing symptoms despite treatment. Endocrinologists specialize in diagnosing and treating complex thyroid disorders and can provide advanced testing, imaging, and individualized treatment plans.

Some thyroid conditions are temporary, while others require lifelong management. Many thyroid disorders can be successfully treated with medication and regular monitoring, allowing most people to live healthy, active lives. Your treatment plan depends on the specific thyroid condition causing your symptoms.

Thyroid nodules are common and most are benign, but they should be evaluated based on their size, appearance, and ultrasound features. An endocrinologist may recommend monitoring with ultrasound or performing a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy to determine whether the nodule requires additional treatment. Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology offers both on-site thyroid ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration (FNA) when appropriate, allowing many patients to complete their evaluation in one location.