Most people think about improving their health and lifestyle when the New Year approaches. However, only a few are aware that January is the Thyroid Awareness month. If you or your loved one is experiencing thyroid related issues or you are showing signs of thyroid impairment, it is time to seek medical assistance and ensure it functions as it should.
It is essential to know that thyroid has an important role of play in keeping you healthy and functioning of the internal organs. Located in the neck, it keeps the metabolism in sync and creates protein, as it is apart of the endocrine system. It helps to regulate the calcium levels, menstrual cycles, cholesterol levels, heart, and the nervous system to keep you healthy and happy. Issues with the thyroid begin when it starts produce too little or too much hormones.
In case, you have a thyroid disorder, chances are high that you are not healthy. Some of the signs of thyroid disorders include depression, memory issues, fatigue and weight gain. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you need to get your thyroid levels checked.
Role Of Digital Imaging
As per the statistics, nearly 6% or 20 million people in US have a range of thyroid condition while most of them are unaware of it. That is where digital imaging can help the physician diagnose the issue properly.
CT Scans: Computerized Tomography uses high-end X-rays, cutting-edge technology to check on the size of the thyroid gland. Although you cannot notice your thyroid gland but if there is a lump at the base of the neck, it is important to get it evaluated by your doctor at the earliest.
MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging is an accurate imaging technique that is non-invasive. It helps to accurately evaluate the shape and size of the thyroid gland, based on the level of inflammation. Although it cannot detect the level of functioning but can help diagnose other issues.
Ultrasound: If the doctor suspects a cyst in the thyroid gland, you will be asked to undergo an ultrasound that utilizes sound waves to create an image. It will help them know if the cyst is a solid mass or filled with fluid.
Abnormalities in the Thyroid Gland
Scanning the thyroid gland is done to check for any abnormalities that may not be visible externally. In addition to lab tests and blood works, especially to check the levels of the thyroid hormone, required for the optimized functioning of the brain and other vital organs. Digital imaging is important to diagnosing a lot of conditions, including:
- Lumps and cysts
- Hypothyroidism
- Goiter
- Swelling in the glands
- Hyperthyroidism
- Cancer in the thyroid gland
Thus, get your thyroid checked and ensure that you stay healthy. If you have signs of a disbalanced thyroid hormones, consult with a doctor at the earliest. For imaging requirements, contact Vital Imaging today at 305-596-9992.