Author: Leslie Branon

hormone therapy for thyroid disease in seniors
Dr. Jean Chen on Over Treating the Thyroid and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults
Posted on by Leslie Branon

The thyroid  is a small gland at the front of your neck that produces hormones which help control several different organ systems. If it’s either underactive (hypothyroidism), or overactive (hyperthyroidism), it could cause serious health issues such as weight changes, fatigue, anxiety/depression, or osteoporosis and may require medication to help better regulate it. 

New research shows though that some hormone medications used to treat thyroid conditions, if administered in excess, may contribute to cognitive disorders in older adults.

This particular study evaluating more than 65,000 patients appeared recently in the JAMA: Journal of the American Medical Association and showed that those 65 years and older who received thyroid hormone therapy were at an increased risk for developing dementia and other cognitive issues, especially those who were aggressively dosed. 

Our endocrinology experts at Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology treat many hormonal issues, including those affecting the thyroid. One of our board-certified endocrinology specialists, Dr. Jean Chen, shared her thoughts on this study for an article in Medscape.

The article stressed the importance of being vigilant when dosing hormone therapy for older adults to avoid the cognitive consequences of overtreatment. 

“Taking a cautious approach to prescribing thyroid hormone therapy for older patients is

paramount,” said Dr. Chen. “All medical providers need to be aware that the 65 and older population does not need to be treated as aggressively with their thyroid hormone.” 

“We are finding more and more complications from overtreatment rather than benefit in this (senior) population.”

Dr. Chen also explained that symptoms of hyperthyroidism can often mimic those of another condition, so it is important to obtain a thorough diagnosis from a primary care physician before automatically adopting any hormone therapies. Our endocrinologists frequently work in close collaboration with other care providers to arrive at the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan to suit your personal needs. 

Thyroid Specialists in Austin

Our team of endocrinology specialists is experienced at diagnosing and treating all issues affecting the thyroid including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer. We provide convenient thyroid ultrasound imaging and biopsy procedures on-site in our clinics and will work with you to formulate the most effective treatment plan possible.

Contact Us Today to Learn More about Managing Your Diabetes and Hormones 

If you’d like to schedule an appointment with Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology and discover how our comprehensive endocrinology services can help you, please contact us at (512) 458-8400 or request an appointment online.  

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and check back with us each month as we provide you with helpful wellness and health information.

Texas Diabetes Super Doctors
Texas Diabetes Endocrinologists Named to Texas Monthly Super Doctors 2023 List
Posted on by Leslie Branon

It is an honor to recognize Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology physicians that have once again been included on the Super Doctors and Super Doctors Rising Stars list for 2023, published in Texas Monthly magazine. 

Each year, MSP Communications honors approximately 5 percent of physicians from across the state as Super Doctors based on evaluation of peer recognition and professional achievement. Super Doctors Rising Stars recognition is given to no more than 2.5 percent of physicians who exhibit exceptional promise in their field and have been practicing for ten years or less. 

Texas Diabete’s 2023 Super Doctors are: 

2023 Super Doctors Rising Stars are: 

At Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology, we take a personalized approach to patient care. Our board certified endocrinologists are experts in the diagnosis, treatment and management of all disorders of the endocrine system.

The services we offer at our locations in Round Rock, Central Austin and South Austin include:

For more information on our comprehensive endocrinology services, schedule a consultation with one of our board certified endocrinologists by requesting an appointment online or call (512) 458-8400. 

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and check back with us each month as we provide you with helpful health and wellness information.

type 2 diabetes awareness
New research shows Type 2 diabetes affects how long you live 
Posted on by Leslie Branon

More than 37 million US adults have diabetes, and Texas has a higher rate of residents living with the condition (11.1 percent) when compared to the national average of 8.5 percent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In honor of Diabetes Awareness Month, we are sharing the latest diabetes research and offering solutions for patients at risk for and living with Type 2 diabetes.

New research shows those diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes are expected to live six years less than those who don’t live with diabetes. For those diagnosed under the age of 30, their life expectancy is reduced by 14 years, according to recent studies released by Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology.

Similar findings are reported out of two additional sources, the Emerging Risk Factors Collaboration and the UK Biobank, citing every decade earlier that Type 2 diabetes was diagnosed, life expectancy was reduced by three to four years.

This alarming information emerges at the same time the CDC is reporting the number of diagnoses of young people is on the rise, and the agency projects that rate will only continue to increase in the future.

Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors and Prevention

Endocrinologist Kajal Shah, M.D. says it’s important to be aware of the risk factors for developing Type 2 diabetes, including:

  • Obesity
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Family history
  • Being of minority origin
  • Prediabetes
  • High blood pressure and cholesterol

“Early intervention and treatment of diabetes can be the answer,” Dr. Shah says. “We’ve seen patients have success with intensive glucose therapy and simple lifestyle changes.”

Dr. Shah encourages anyone with these risk factors to work closely with their doctor to develop a plan to prevent or effectively manage the disease.

To prevent diabetes, our team of endocrinologists recommend the following healthy habits: 

  • Maintain a healthy weight 
  • Stay active
  • Eat a healthy diet
  • Quit smoking
  • Control blood pressure

At Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology, our team of board certified endocrinologists, certified diabetes educators, and health coaches are focused on your health. We offer a personalized approach and a full range of diabetes services including a medically managed NextStepMD weight loss program, medications, clinical trials, continuous glucose monitoring, and insulin pumps. 

For more information on a personalized approach to diabetes management, schedule a consultation with one of our board certified endocrinologists by requesting an appointment online or call 512-458-8400.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and check back with us each month as we provide you with helpful health and wellness information. 

managing diabetes during the holidays
Diabetes and Holiday Eating: Tips to Stay on Track
Posted on by Leslie Branon

The holiday season, and its festive foods, are often the highlight of the year for many people. For those with diabetes though, it can be extra challenging. 

Research from the American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association shows that half of those who have Type 2 diabetes feel that managing it during the holidays is more stressful than any other time of year. 

At Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology, our team of board-certified endocrinologists are dedicated to helping our patients learn best practices for managing their diabetes and gain better control of their health, even during the holidays.

Our diabetes experts recommend planning ahead to help your glucose levels stay at a healthy level during the upcoming holiday season.

How can I manage my diabetes during the holidays? 

1.         Always eat a smart breakfast. Then make a calculated plan to balance your food intake for the rest of the day ahead, and plan accordingly if you will be eating at later times than usual to prevent low sugar episodes.

2.         Get a workout in during the morning and take a walk at night. A workout earlier in the day will help to boost circulation and improve insulin sensitivity, allowing for easier management in the hours to follow. A nighttime walk at the end of the day after a big meal will also help to ease digestion. 

3.         Track your carbohydrate intake. There are many handy and helpful charts and trackers to help you gauge exactly what your carb intake is according to what foods you eat for each holiday, such as Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and Christmas (courtesy of the JDRF). Find one that you like and stick to it for the next few months. 

4.         Know what you are eating. Don’t be afraid to ask your relative, host, or restaurant what ingredients (such as sugar, butter and cream) are in the foods you are eating, and how much! This knowledge can help you adjust your portions, or avoid some dishes, accordingly. Or, offer to bring your own low-carb, low-sugar version of something that will be served to share with others. 

5.         Consume alcohol in moderation and watch out for sugary mixers. Festive holiday cocktails are often loaded with sugary mixers such as juices and syrups.  Avoid drinking on an empty stomach as this can also cause your blood sugar to drop, and always drink responsibly.

6.         Test your glucose levels often. Keep as close to your regular testing schedule as possible, and anticipate potential blood sugar spikes and have a plan for when they occur. 

Bring plenty of stabilizing snacks along and your insulin and other medications if traveling. You never know when travel delays may occur, and you’ll want to be prepared. 

All that said, don’t forget to enjoy the holidays and those special festive treats when you can, and know that with a little planning and willpower you are able to get back on track with the next day and the next meal. 

Contact Us Today to Learn More about Managing Your Diabetes

If you’d like to schedule an appointment with Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology and discover how our diabetes treatment services can help you, contact us at (512) 458-8400 or request an appointment online.  

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and check back with us each month as we provide you helpful wellness and health information.

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