Thyroid Disorder Care in Raleigh, NC
Your thyroid helps control your energy, weight, body temperature, and mood, so when it isn’t working right, you may feel off in ways that are hard to pin down. Dr. Jessica Wright evaluates and manages common thyroid conditions at Right Care Family Medicine in Raleigh, NC.
What Are Thyroid Disorders?
The thyroid is a small gland in the front of your neck that makes hormones your body uses to regulate metabolism. Hypothyroidism means the thyroid makes too little hormone, and hyperthyroidism means it makes too much. Thyroid nodules and an enlarged thyroid (goiter) are also common. Most thyroid conditions are diagnosed with a blood test and are often managed with medication and regular monitoring.
Common Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders
Symptoms depend on whether your thyroid is underactive or overactive, and they often develop slowly.
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) may cause:
- Fatigue and feeling cold
- Weight gain
- Dry skin and thinning hair
- Constipation
- Low mood
An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) may cause:
- Feeling hot or sweaty
- Unexplained weight loss
- Rapid heartbeat
- Anxiety, shakiness, or trouble sleeping
Causes & Risk Factors
Autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease are common causes of thyroid problems. Other causes include thyroid nodules, inflammation of the thyroid, certain medications, and changes after pregnancy. Thyroid conditions are more common in women, in people over 60, and in those with a family history of thyroid disease.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Schedule a visit if you’ve had ongoing fatigue, unexplained weight changes, or feel unusually cold or hot, or if you notice a lump or swelling in your neck. If you already take thyroid medication, regular follow-up helps make sure your dose is still right. Seek emergency care for a racing heartbeat with chest pain or trouble breathing.
What to Expect
01
Listening & Exam
We talk through your symptoms and health history and examine your neck and thyroid.
02
Lab Testing
Blood tests such as TSH show how your thyroid is working, and we may order an ultrasound if we find a nodule.
03
Treatment & Monitoring
If treatment is needed, we start medication when appropriate, recheck your levels, and adjust your dose over time, coordinating with endocrinology when needed.
Why Choose Right Care Family Medicine for Thyroid Care?
- Board-certified family physician who looks at the full picture of your health
- Clear explanations of your lab results and treatment options
- Coordination with endocrinology when specialist care is needed
- Medicare, Medicaid, and most major insurance plans accepted
Related Conditions & Services
Thyroid symptoms can overlap with sleep and fatigue concerns, anxiety and depression, and menopause, so we consider every possibility. Thyroid care is part of our chronic disease management, and routine labs are available through primary and preventive care.
Your Provider for Thyroid Care
Dr. Jessica Wright, MD, MPH, is a board-certified family physician with more than ten years of clinical experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thyroid Disorders
How is a thyroid problem diagnosed?
Most thyroid conditions are diagnosed with a blood test, usually starting with TSH. Depending on the results, we may check other thyroid hormone levels or order an ultrasound.
Will I need thyroid medication for life?
It depends on the cause. Many people with hypothyroidism take daily medication long term, while some thyroid conditions are temporary. We’ll explain what to expect in your situation.
How often should my thyroid levels be checked?
After starting or changing a dose, levels are usually rechecked in about 6 to 8 weeks. Once your levels are stable, many patients are checked about once a year.
Feeling Run Down and Not Sure Why?
A thyroid check is a simple place to start. Request a visit and we’ll help you look for answers.