In the US, around 20 million people suffer from thyroid disease. Although the symptoms and their severity vary greatly, patients almost always benefit from thyroid treatment as conditions related to this gland don’t usually resolve themselves. A compounding pharmacy can manufacture personalized drugs that address each patient’s specific symptoms.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Thyroid Problems?

While certain symptoms such as unexplained weight fluctuations may indicate a thyroid problem, it’s often hard to tell because there are several distinct thyroid issues, and their symptoms overlap with various other health concerns. Diagnosis involves a thorough assessment, including blood tests measuring thyroid hormone levels, imaging studies such as ultrasound or scans, and sometimes a biopsy to determine the nature of thyroid nodules. 

Certain individuals face a higher risk of developing thyroid problems. Women are particularly susceptible, with hormonal fluctuations potentially triggering thyroid dysfunction. A family history of thyroid disease may also increase the likelihood. Additionally, individuals with medical conditions such as pernicious anemia, Type 1 diabetes, or autoimmune disorders may be at an elevated risk. 

Hypothyroidism

When the thyroid gland is underactive, not enough thyroid hormones are produced. The primary cause is often an autoimmune condition known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the thyroid tissue. Other causes include iodine deficiency, certain medications, or previous thyroid surgery.

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism are fatigue, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold due to a slowed metabolism. Individuals may also experience dry skin, hair loss, and muscle weakness. Cognitive functions may be affected, resulting in memory problems and difficulty concentrating. Additionally, hypothyroidism can lead to changes in the menstrual cycle and increased cholesterol levels. 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is overactive. This leads to excessive production of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Hyperthyroidism is often caused by inflammation or Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition where the immune system stimulates the thyroid to produce more hormones. 

Patients with hyperthyroidism experience unintentional weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and heightened anxiety. The increased metabolic rate may lead to heat intolerance, excessive sweating, and difficulty sleeping. Individuals may also notice changes in bowel habits and muscle weakness. Grave’s disease can cause bulging eyes due to inflammation of the eye muscles and tissues.

Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid nodules are abnormal growths or lumps that form within the thyroid gland. They can vary in size and can occur due to iodine deficiency, inflammation, or genetic predisposition. While many thyroid nodules are benign and asymptomatic, some may cause noticeable symptoms or be an indication of an underlying thyroid disorder.

Symptoms include neck swelling, difficulty swallowing, or a feeling of tightness in the throat. In some cases, nodules can produce excess thyroid hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism symptoms. 

What Are the Thyroid Treatment Options at a Compounding Pharmacy? 

For hypothyroidism, the standard treatment involves synthetic thyroid hormone medication to restore hormone balance. In hyperthyroidism, options include antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery to remove part of the thyroid. Thyroid nodules may be managed with monitoring, medication, or surgical removal, depending on their nature.

Compounded medication, where pharmacists customize prescriptions for individual patients, may be beneficial for many thyroid patients. This approach allows for precise adjustment of medication dosage to meet the needs of each patient. Compounded medications offer flexibility in dosage forms, ensuring patients receive treatment tailored to their preferences and tolerances.

Although some thyroid conditions are temporary, many require lifelong medication. With the right drugs, patients can live a normal and active life. However, finding the optimal dosage can be challenging. That’s why an increasing number of doctors are choosing compounded drugs, which can be tailored to the individual’s requirement and adjusted over time.