Balancing Hormones, Nurturing Health Manage Your Thyroid Health with Harmony Endocrine
Comprehensive Care & Treatment for Thyroid Disorders at Harmony Thyroid Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre
Why is Thyroid Health Important?
In Singapore, 1 in 10 residents suffers from thyroid disorders, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.
The thyroid gland plays a pivotal role in regulating metabolism and growth, affecting energy levels, weight, and heart rate. Imbalances can lead to severe health complications, including fertility issues and developmental impacts on newborns.
What are Thyroid Disorders?
Thyroid disorders encompass conditions like Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism, marked by imbalanced thyroid hormones. These conditions are highly manageable under the care of an experienced endocrinologist like Dr Vikram.
Thyroid disorders involve either an excess or deficiency of thyroid hormones, impacting vital functions like growth and metabolism. With effective treatment, these chronic conditions can be well-managed, ensuring a normal, healthy life.
Signs & Symptoms
Recognising the signs of thyroid disorders is crucial for timely intervention and treatment.
Hyperthyroidism symptoms might include:
Unintentional weight loss, even when your appetite and food intake stay the same or increase
Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
Increased appetite
Nervousness, anxiety, and irritability
Tremor in your hands and fingers
Sweating
Changes in menstrual patterns
Increased sensitivity to heat
Changes in bowel patterns, especially more frequent bowel movements
An enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
Fatigue, muscle weakness
Difficulty sleeping
Hypothyroidism symptoms might include:
Fatigue and sluggishness
Increased sensitivity to cold
Constipation
Dry skin
Weight gain
Puffy face
Hoarseness
Muscle weakness
Elevated blood cholesterol level
Heavier than normal or irregular menstrual periods
Thinning hair
Slowed heart rate
Depression
Impaired memory
Signs & Symptoms
Recognising the signs of thyroid disorders is crucial for timely intervention and treatment.
Hyperthyroidism symptoms might include:
Hyperthyroidism symptoms might include:
- Unintentional weight loss, even when your appetite and food intake stay the same or increase
- Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Increased appetite
- Nervousness, anxiety, and irritability
- Tremor in your hands and fingers
- Sweating
- Changes in menstrual patterns
- Increased sensitivity to heat
- Changes in bowel patterns, especially more frequent bowel movements
- An enlarged thyroid gland (goitre)
- Fatigue, muscle weakness
- Difficulty sleeping
Hypothyroidism symptoms may include:
- Fatigue and sluggishness
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Weight gain
- Puffy face
- Hoarseness
- Muscle weakness
- Elevated blood cholesterol level
- Heavier than normal or irregular menstrual periods
- Thinning hair
- Slowed heart rate
- Depression
- Impaired memory
What Are the Different Types of Thyroid Disorders?
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones.
Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Weight Gain
- Cold Intolerance
- Depression
- Dry Skin
Fact:
Hypothyroidism affects approximately 5% of the population in Singapore, with a higher prevalence among women.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland over produces thyroid hormones.
Symptoms:
- Weight Loss
- Rapid Heartbeat
- Anxiety
- Excessive Sweating
- Heat Intolerance
Fact:
Hyperthyroidism affects around 3% of the population in Singapore and can lead to serious complications if untreated.
Graves’ Disease
An autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism.
Symptoms:
Similar to hyperthyroidism
- Weight loss
- Rapid heartbeat
- Anxiety
Fact:
Graves’ Disease is the leading cause of hyperthyroidism in Singapore, affecting many individuals of all ages.
Thyroid Nodules
Growth of lumps in the thyroid gland can be benign or malignant.
Symptoms:
Often asymptomatic, but can sometimes cause swelling in the neck or interfere with breathing and swallowing.
Fact:
Thyroid nodules are common, with studies indicating that up to 50% of people in Singapore may develop one by the time they are 60 years old, though most are benign.
Thyroid Cancer
A malignant growth in the thyroid gland.
Symptoms:
- Lump in the Neck
- Difficulty Swallowing
- Voice Changes
Fact:
Thyroid cancer cases have been rising in Singapore, but early detection and treatment significantly improve the prognosis.
Diagnosis of Thyroid Disorders
The process for diagnosing thyroid disorders generally combines a review of medical history, a thorough physical examination, and specific diagnostic tests:
The treatment options available for managing thyroid disorders
Treatment varies from medication such as synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy to adjustments in lifestyle and diet, enabling you to find the strategy that aligns with your condition.
It is crucial to get screened for thyroid disorders to see what your blood reports indicate. Early detection allows for more effective treatment. Your doctor plays a pivotal role in guiding you through this process, interpreting your test results, and recommending the best course of action. Understanding these options helps in making informed decisions about your health.
About Dr Vikram
- Dr Vikram is a Senior Consultant Endocrinologist and Medical Director at Harmony Thyroid, Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre, with a fellowship in clinical thyroidology from the prestigious Mayo Clinic, Rochester Minnesota, USA.
- He has more than 12 years of experience in endocrinology and over 20 years of internal medicine experience.
- He also mentors new doctors in endocrinology as a Senior Lecturer at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (NUS) and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (NTU).
Integrated Shield Plans
For those with Integrated Shield plans with riders for private hospital coverage or Corporate Insurance plans, you can rest easy as we provide assistance in obtaining a Letter of Guarantee (LOG) or Pre-authorisation certificate for your procedure. Additionally, we work with the hospital or surgical centres in processing your medical claims.
Please find the recognised insurance panels below:
About Harmony Endocrine
Swift and accurate diagnosis
Dr Vikram has in-depth knowledge about a broad spectrum of endocrine issues and is proficient in performing Thyroid Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC), your condition will be diagnosed promptly, optimising your chance of recovery.
Tailored treatment plan for your condition and lifestyle
Take charge of your endocrine wellness by receiving the expert advice & treatment you deserve from an endocrine specialist for better symptom relief and a more fulfilling life.
Patient-centred philosophy
Your well-being is our priority and our dedicated team is committed to providing personalised and compassionate care tailored to your unique needs.
Insurance Partners
Harmony Thyroid, Endocrinology, and Diabetes Centre is committed to providing a nurturing and compassionate environment, giving you peace of mind when it comes to your medical care. We acknowledge the importance of smoothly navigating the post-procedure billing and claims process in your healthcare journey and are dedicated to ensuring a seamless experience for you.
Through our Corporate Insurance Panel providers listed below, private healthcare is more accessible. Patients now have the opportunity to receive treatment from a wider selection of extended panel doctors, enabling them to choose from a diverse range of healthcare providers.
Corporate Insurance
Personal Shield Plans
FAQs
While all thyroid conditions are treatable and can lead to normal thyroid function, ongoing medication is often necessary to maintain this balance.
Fluctuations in weight, energy levels, and mood are common with thyroid disorders. We offer assistance in managing these symptoms and provide effective treatment options.
Dietary choices, stress levels, and physical activity significantly affect thyroid health. We offer advice and tailored treatment plans to promote optimal thyroid function.
Thyroid disorders can indeed affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes. If you’re pregnant, planning to conceive, or have concerns about your thyroid health, we encourage you to contact us for support.
Mt Elizabeth Hospital (Orchard)
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Monday - Friday: 9:00AM – 5:00PM
Saturday: 9:00AM – 12:30PM
Sunday & Public Holiday: CLOSED