Thyroid Specialist in Singapore
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ located in the front of the neck. It produces and secretes hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and growth. Disruption in thyroid hormone production can lead to an imbalance in thyroid hormone levels which may affect the functions of other organs in the body and may result in a variety of symptoms.
Learn about common thyroid disorders below or book an appointment with our thyroid specialist today.
What Are Thyroid Diseases and Disorders?
Thyroid diseases and disorders are medical conditions that affect the function of the thyroid gland. They can cause an over or underproduction of thyroid hormones. Thyroid diseases and disorders can affect men and women of all ages, although they can be more common in women between the ages of 20 and 50.
Types of Thyroid Diseases and Disorders We Treat
Thyroid disorders can be classified as functional or structural. Functional disorders include hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), while structural disorders include nodules and goiters, and thyroid cancer.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormones, leading to a lower metabolic rate.
Causes
Common causes of hypothyroidism may include:
- Autoimmune disease (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis): The most common cause, where the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland.
- Previous thyroid surgery: Removal of part or all of the thyroid gland can lead to reduced hormone production.
- Radioactive iodine treatment: Used for conditions like overactive thyroid or thyroid cancer, which can impair hormone production.
- Radiation exposure: Treatments involving the head and neck may damage the thyroid gland.
- Pituitary surgery or dysfunction: The pituitary gland controls the thyroid; its dysfunction can reduce TSH production, leading to hypothyroidism.
Symptoms
These are some common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism:
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Weight gain despite no changes in appetite or diet
- Cold intolerance
- Constipation
- Irregular menstrual cycles (changes in cycle length or flow)
- Dry skin
- Muscle pain
- Low heart rate
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism refers to an overactive thyroid gland that produces excessive thyroid hormones, leading to an accelerated metabolism.
Causes
The following are common causes of hyperthyroidism:
- Graves’ disease: An autoimmune disorder causing the thyroid gland to become overactive due to circulating antibodies.
- Active thyroid nodule(s): Nodules in the thyroid that produce excess thyroid hormones independently.
- Thyroid inflammation (thyroiditis): Leads to a temporary release of stored thyroid hormones into the bloodstream.
Symptoms
The symptoms of hyperthyroidism can be classified into metabolic, cardiovascular, neurological, gastrointestinal and reproductive symptoms.
| Types of treatment** | |
|---|---|
Metabolic symptoms |
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Cardiovascular symptoms |
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Neurological symptoms |
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Gastrointestinal symptoms |
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Reproductive symptoms |
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Other symptoms |
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Thyroid nodules and goiters
Thyroid nodules are small abnormal growths or lumps that form within the thyroid gland. While most are benign, a small percentage may be cancerous. A goiter is an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland that may or may not disrupt hormone production.
Causes
Factors that may increase the risk of developing thyroid nodules and goiters include:
- Genetics: A family history of thyroid nodules and goiters may indicate an increased risk.
- Radiation exposure: Exposure to radiation, especially to the head and neck area, can be a risk factor for these conditions.
- Autoimmune disease: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can increase the risk of developing nodules and goiters.
Symptoms
Most thyroid nodules are asymptomatic and are often discovered incidentally during imaging studies. In some cases, you may notice symptoms such as:
- Visible neck lump
- Heat intolerance
- Weight loss
- Palpitations
- Hand tremors
- Loose stools
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Thyroid cancer
Although relatively rare, thyroid cancer can develop from suspicious thyroid nodules. It can affect men and women of all ages but may be more common in women between 30 and 60 years old.
Causes
Thyroid cancer can be caused by factors such as:
- Genetics: A family history of thyroid cancer or gene mutations can cause an increased risk of thyroid cancer.
- Radiation exposure: Exposure to ionising radiation, especially during childhood, can be a risk factor for thyroid cancer.
- Iodine intake: Both iodine deficiency and excess iodine intake may increase the risk of thyroid cancer.
- Overproduction of hormones: Overproduction of growth hormone (acromegaly) may increase thyroid cancer risk.
- Medical conditions: Thyroid nodules or goiters and autoimmune diseases may result in cancer.
Symptoms
These are some common signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer:
- A painless lump in the neck
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Neck pain
How Are Thyroid Diseases and Disorders Diagnosed?
Your doctor will first ask questions to understand your medical history and symptoms before physically examining the thyroid gland. They will assess the shape and size of the gland, looking for enlargements (goiters) or nodules.
To confirm a diagnosis, your doctor will conduct tests such as blood tests, imaging studies or Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC).
Thyroid function tests (TFTs) will measure levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3) to identify hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism and autoimmune conditions like Graves’ disease.
Depending on your condition, your doctor may also order a special blood test to check for the levels of antibodies in the blood.
Ultrasound scans may be used to visualise the thyroid gland’s structure, while thyroid uptake scans may be performed to identify the thyroid’s activity level. These tests can help identify nodules, tumours, or abnormal thyroid tissue.
This is a minimally invasive procedure where cells are extracted from the nodule for microscopic examination. It is typically performed for nodules with suspicious ultrasound features or larger nodules to evaluate for potential malignancy.
How Are Thyroid Diseases and Disorders Treated?
The treatment methods for thyroid disorders vary based on your condition and responsiveness to treatment. These are the recommended treatment options for each disorder.
| Type of thyroid disorder | Treatment options |
|---|---|
Hypothyroidism |
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Hyperthyroidism |
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Thyroid nodules and goiters |
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Thyroid cancer |
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Our Thyroid Specialist
Dr Linsey Gani
Consultant Endocrinologist
MBBS (Aust), B Med Sci, FRACP (Endocrine), FAMS (S’pore), MPH (Harvard), Clinical Assistant Professor (Duke-NUS Medical School)
Languages: English, Mandarin, Bahasa Indonesia
Dr Gani is an experienced endocrinologist in the diagnosis and management of thyroid disorders. She completed her residency in Melbourne, Australia and is a fellow of the Royal Australian College of physician and the Academy of Medicine, Singapore.
Why Choose Us?
With clinical expertise in diagnosing and managing thyroid disorders, Dr Gani is equipped with the knowledge and experience necessary to ensure comprehensive treatment.
Dr Gani takes a compassionate, patient-centred approach to treatment, ensuring each individual receives personalised care tailored to their specific condition and needs.
Our clinic is situated in the central region of Singapore at Novena Medical Centre and is easily accessible by both public and private transport.
FAQs about Thyroid Diseases and Disorders
Is it important to treat thyroid disorders?
Leaving thyroid diseases and disorders untreated can result in serious complications including (but not limited to):
- Cardiac issues such as atrial fibrillation and heart failure
- Bone loss leading to osteoporosis and fractures
- Peripheral neuropathy (damage to nerves outside of the brain or spinal cord)
- Infertility
When should I worry about thyroid nodules?
The majority of thyroid nodules are benign. However, if you notice an unusual lump in your neck or experience difficulties breathing or swallowing, consult a thyroid specialist like Dr Gani.
When should I see a thyroid specialist?
If you experience persistent symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism such as fatigue, unexplained weight changes, or a lump in your neck, book an appointment with an endocrinologist or thyroid specialist. Understanding and managing thyroid health early can prevent complications, allowing you to lead a balanced, healthy life.
Book an Appointment
Fill out the form below to schedule your appointment.
Dr. Linsey Gani Endocrinology
10 Sinaran Drive, #10-08, Novena Medical Center, Singapore 307506
+65 6397 7101
+65 9128 7480
Monday - Friday
08:30 - 12:30
14:00 - 17:30
09:00-12:00
Closed
Monday - Friday
08:30 - 12:30
14:00 - 17:30
09:00 - 12:00
Closed