Hypothyroidism
Definition
Hypothyroidism is a medical condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to a slow metabolism and various symptoms affecting multiple body systems. It can be caused by factors such as autoimmune disease, certain medications, or radiation therapy.
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Endocrinology
Our nationally and internationally recognized physicians are experts in diagnosing and treating diseases related to the body’s endocrine system, which regulates hormones. They also specialize in treating metabolic disease, or any of the diseases or disorders that disrupt normal metabolism, the process of converting food to energy. We are a national referral center for 3,000 patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as other metabolic conditions. We help patients transition seamlessly from pediatric to adult care. We emphasize a personalized approach to care, tailoring the treatment program to each patient’s needs. Our 24/7 consult service provides expert consultations to patients with complex conditions, spanning the full spectrum from disorders of the thyroid to electrolyte abnormalities and hormonal conditions. Specialized care is offered in the following areas: Bone Center Diabetes Center Endocrine Neoplasia Program (thyroid/adrenal) Pituitary Program A major referral center for 3,000 patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as other metabolic conditions, including obesity and lipid disorders. Services include insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitoring, and access to clinical trials. An inpatient diabetes management service that is available 24/7 to assist clinicians in achieving optimal glucose control in hospitalized patients in both ICU and non-ICU settings A national referral site for patients with thyroid diseases, including hyperthyroidism, thyroiditis, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer; and adrenal diseases, including adrenal masses, Cushing syndrome, hyperaldosteronism, and pheochromocytoma Multidisciplinary care provided to patients with pituitary diseases, including tumors, prolactinomas, Cushing syndrome, acromegaly, hypopituitarism, and hypophysitis. Special services include intraoperative MRI and intraoperative hormonal testing to ensure complete removal of tumor. National and international experts on metabolic bone disease, including osteoporosis, hyperparathyroidism, Paget disease, vitamin D disorders, and genetic conditions involving the skeleton. Challenging cases are reviewed at a monthly multidisciplinary bone conference. Bone density measurements by the Yale Densitometry Service that are taken on a new Hologenic DXA scannerMetabolic Health & Weight Loss Program
Obesity is a common problem that can cause fatigue, diabetes, fatty liver disease, and sleep problems, and raise the risk of many cancers. It reduces energy, and can take the pleasure out of many aspects of life. Extra weight also places stress on vital organs, including the heart, liver, and kidneys, as well as joints and the reproductive system. Although organs can work under this extra stress for a number of years, eventually they are likely to fail. Most organs lose about 80% of their capacity before symptoms are evident, and by that time, it is often too late to return them to normal function. The conditions associated with obesity are: Cancer Cardiovascular disease Diabetes Liver disease Obstructive sleep apnea Losing weight can help improve and sometimes cure many of these conditions, as well as fertility issues. Losing weight can also lead to a life with fewer medications, lower health expenses, and overall greater enjoyment. At the Yale Metabolic Health and Weight Loss Program, we offer all nonsurgical weight-loss interventions in one location. Our philosophy is to focus on health, rather than specific disease, and to tailor our care to each patient’s specific needs and goals. The first step in our care is to determine weight-loss goals. Patients may need to lose 5 to 10% of their body weight to help in the treatment of a disease. We will help patients choose from interventions that include intensive meal-replacement programs, a range of medications, or endoscopic (nonsurgical procedure) options. Sometimes, there are additional medical necessities, such as an upcoming surgery, that require a specific weight-loss goal. We will explain the advantages and disadvantages of the various options, but the choice will depend primarily on what feels right to the patient. We provide therapies under the medical supervision of obesity experts. Patients can choose from the full range of tested interventions: Lifestyle changes: Nutrition counseling goes hand-in-hand with medical management of metabolic health. Care will include a personal visit with a registered dietitian with advanced training in weight management. OPTIFAST® program: OPTIFAST® is a medically monitored weight management program that allows patients, under the supervision of a physician, to consume a low-calorie diet and receive comprehensive lifestyle education. The OPTIFAST program provides full meal replacement for 12 weeks and transitions to self-prepared “everyday” meals in conjunction with comprehensive patient education and support, to help patients achieve long-term weight loss. Medications: All medications are used as part of a comprehensive program that includes proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Belviq® is taken twice daily and can produce weight loss in the 5 to 10% range after about six months of use. Its main effect is to decrease appetite. Contrave® is a single pill that contains two medications (naltrexone and bupropion) and is taken twice a d