Thyroid Treatment

Thyroid disorders can affect energy levels, metabolism, and overall well-being. Get expert medical advice from our AHPRA-accredited online doctors and health practitioners, available 24/7 within just 15 minutes.

This guide does not replace professional care. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately.

About thyroid

The thyroid, a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall body function through hormone production. When the thyroid malfunctions, it can lead to various health issues. Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, occurs when the gland fails to produce enough hormones, resulting in fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair thinning, depression, cold intolerance, and constipation. In contrast, hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, leads to excessive hormone production, causing symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, excessive sweating, tremors, and heat intolerance. Another common thyroid disorder is goitre, a noticeable swelling of the gland often caused by iodine deficiency or hormonal imbalances, which can lead to symptoms like neck swelling, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or a feeling of tightness in the throat.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

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    When to consult a doctor for thyroid?

    It is important to seek medical advice for thyroid concerns to ensure early diagnosis and effective management. You should consult a doctor if you experience:

    • Unexplained weight changes: Sudden weight loss or gain without changes in diet or lifestyle.
    • Fatigue & weakness: Persistent tiredness, low energy levels, or muscle weakness.
    • Mood changes: Anxiety, depression, irritability, or difficulty concentrating (brain fog).
    • Irregular heart rate: Rapid or slow heartbeat, palpitations, or increased blood pressure.
    • Temperature sensitivity: Feeling excessively cold or hot compared to others.
    • Hair & skin changes: Thinning hair, brittle nails, dry skin, or excessive hair loss.
    • Neck swelling or discomfort: Visible swelling in the neck (goitre), difficulty swallowing, or a hoarse voice.
    • Menstrual irregularities: Heavy, light, or missed periods, or fertility issues.

    What are the common thyroid disorders and their symptoms?

    Common thyroid disorders are:

    • Hypothyroidism (Underactive thyroid): Occurs when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones. The symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair thinning, depression, cold intolerance, and constipation.
    • Hyperthyroidism (Overactive thyroid): Occurs when the thyroid produces excessive hormones. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, excessive sweating, tremors, and heat intolerance.
    • Goitre (Thyroid enlargement): A swelling of the thyroid gland, which may be caused by iodine deficiency or hormonal imbalances. The symptoms of goitre include visible neck swelling, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or tightness in the throat.

    What are the causes of thyroid disorders?

    Thyroid disorders can be caused by various factors, including autoimmune diseases, iodine imbalances, genetics, and lifestyle factors. Below are the most common causes of thyroid dysfunction:

    • Autoimmune conditions: Where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to decreased hormone production or stimulates excessive thyroid hormone production.
    • Iodine deficiency or excess intake
    • Genetic factors: A family history of thyroid disorders increases the risk of developing thyroid disease.
    • Hormonal imbalances: Pregnancy, menopause or other imbalances
    • Medications & treatments: Certain medications, and some cancer treatments, can affect thyroid function.
    • Pituitary gland disorders: The pituitary gland regulates thyroid function by producing thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Pituitary disorders can disrupt hormone production.
    • Infections & inflammation: Viral or bacterial infections can cause thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid), leading to temporary hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
    • Nutritional deficiencies: Low selenium, zinc or iron deficiency can contribute to thyroid dysfunction
    • Stress & lifestyle factors: Chronic stress, poor sleep, unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise can contribute to thyroid disorders over time.
    • Thyroid surgery or damage: Surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid gland or physical trauma to the neck area can affect thyroid function.

    How is thyroid disease diagnosed?

    Thyroid conditions are diagnosed through:

    • Blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels (TSH, T3, T4).
    • Thyroid antibody tests to check for autoimmune thyroid disease.
    • Ultrasound to assess thyroid nodules or swelling.
    • Thyroid scan or biopsy for further evaluation if needed

    Can I get a referral for a specialist via telehealth?

    Yes, a telehealth doctor can assess your condition and provide a specialist referral if needed. This is useful if you have severe thyroid disease, complications, or require specialised treatment. Along with specialist referrals you can get blood test referrals to check thyroid levels, pathology referrals and radiology referrals via instant consults. To get an online referral:

    • Select a consultation type
    • Fill in your details and make payment,
    • Speak to a registered practitioner within 15 minutes from the comfort of your home
    • If approved, get an online referral emailed to you instantly.

    Can I get a sick certificate online?

    Yes, if your thyroid symptoms (e.g., fatigue, brain fog, weakness) affect your ability to work, you can get an online medical certificate through Hola Health. Request a medical certificate now.

    Are doctors available after hours?

    Yes, Hola Health offers 24/7 telehealth services, so you can consult a doctor after hours, on weekends, and public holidays for thyroid concerns, prescriptions, referrals, and sick certificates.

    How can I get a doctor's appointment if the GP near me is not available?

    You can book a doctors appointment online in just a few clicks. On-demand appointments are available 24/7, and you can speak to an AHPRA-registered doctor from anywhere in Australia. To get a telehealth appointment with Hola Health, simply click on “see a doctor”, choose consultation type, fill in your details and make payment. Connect with an AHPRA-accredited online practitioner within 15 minutes, seek medical advice, doctor’s note, online scripts and referrals.

    How can you get an online script?

    Getting an online prescription through Hola Health is quick and convenient. Follow these steps:

    • Request an instant script
    • Fill in your details and make the payment
    • During your video or phone consultation, discuss your symptoms, medical history, and medication needs. The doctor will assess whether a prescription is appropriate.
    • If approved, your prescription will be sent via SMS.
    • Visit a pharmacy to collect your medication or opt for home delivery from an online pharmacy

    How can we help?

    Trusted by 400,000+ Aussies, Hola Health connects you to AHPRA-accredited online GPs and healthcare practitioners 24/7 from anywhere in Australia. Get medical certs, eScripts, referrals within 15 minutes from the comfort of your home. Here are some key advantages of using telehealth:

    • Online GP consultations: Consult a registered practitioner through a telehealth appointment within 15 minutes.
    • After hours doctor: Speak to a 24-hour doctor anytime, no matter where you are in Australia.
    • Online scripts: Get immediate online prescriptions approved by licensed practitioners and dispense the script at your local pharmacy or get it delivered through online pharmacy delivery.
    • Online medical certificates: Quickly request a medical certificate online for work, school, or to fulfill carer duties from the comfort of your home.
    • Online referrals: Receive online GP referrals to specialists, blood tests, pathology, and radiology services.
    • Mental health assistance: Access bulk-billed mental health care plans available nationwide.

    Talk to a doctor today

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