Treatment of Thyroid Diseases in Turkey

Despite the physical proximity of the thyroid and parathyroid glands and their inclusion in the body's endocrine system, their functions are unrelated. Typically, there are four parathyroid glands near the thyroid gland. Each parathyroid gland is usually about the size of a rice grain (with a diameter ranging from 3 to 5 millimeters and a weight of 30 to 60 milligrams). The parathyroid glands secrete parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium levels in the bloodstream. Other parts of the body, especially the bones, kidneys, and small intestines, respond to the parathyroid hormone (PTH) by increasing calcium levels in the blood.

What are the treatable thyroid gland diseases in Turkey?

1. Hypothyroidism:

   • Causes: Can result from Hashimoto's thyroiditis (autoimmune), overactive thyroid treatment, thyroid surgery, or iodine deficiency.
   • Symptoms: Fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, feeling cold, constipation, hair loss, muscle weakness, elevated cholesterol levels.
   • Treatment: Administration of synthetic thyroxine hormone (Levothyroxine) to compensate for thyroid hormone deficiency.

2. Hyperthyroidism:

   • Causes: Graves' disease, toxic thyroid nodules, thyroiditis.
   • Symptoms: Weight loss, rapid heartbeat, nervousness, excessive heat, sweating, tremors, muscle weakness.
   • Treatment: Anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery in specific cases.

3. Thyroiditis:

   • Causes: Can be autoimmune, viral infection-induced, or postpartum.
   • Symptoms: Symptoms vary based on the inflammation stage, ranging from hyperthyroidism to hypothyroidism, including neck pain, feeling cold or hot, fatigue, and weight changes.
   • Treatment: May include medication to control symptoms or hormonal therapy in case of evolving thyroid deficiency.

4. Thyroid Tumors:

   • Causes: Precise cause unknown, but risk factors include radiation exposure and family history.
   • Symptoms: Presence of a neck mass, voice changes, difficulty swallowing or breathing, swollen lymph nodes.
   • Treatment: Depends on the cancer type and stage, may involve surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

5. Graves' Disease:

   • Causes: Autoimmune disorder stimulating excess thyroid hormone production.
   • Symptoms: Include symptoms of hyperthyroidism along with protruding eyes.
   • Treatment: Anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery.

6. Goiter:

   • Causes: Iodine deficiency is the most common global cause, but it can also result from other thyroid disorders.
   • Symptoms: Noticeable enlargement of the neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing in severe cases.
   • Treatment: Depends on the cause and symptoms, may include iodine supplementation, hormonal therapy, or surgery.

Treatment is selected based on each patient's symptoms and the type of disorder. Accurate diagnosis and follow-up with an endocrinologist are crucial for determining the optimal treatment plan.

Treatment in Turkish Hospitals:

Turkish hospitals provide the latest treatments for thyroid patients through:

• Comprehensive diagnosis using advanced medical technologies and laboratory tests.
• Individualized treatment plans based on the type and characteristics of the disease.
• Use of the latest medications to improve thyroid function.
• Expert surgical interventions by experienced surgeons.
• Safe and effective radioactive iodine treatment.

Turkish hospitals excel in treating thyroid diseases, offering holistic care that ensures the best possible response to patient needs and optimal treatment outcomes.