Thyroid Problems

The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland that is located beneath the neck. It produces hormones that regulate the rate of functioning of many body systems. For this reason, any dysfunction of the thyroid gland can have widespread effects. Hypothyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormones, can result in obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease. Hypothyroidism does not usually have symptoms in its early stages and is easily correctible with medication. Hyperthyroidism, or producing too much thyroid hormones, is usually more symptomatic. Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include heart palpitations, nervousness, insomnia fatigue, trembling, sweating and hair loss. It is frequently misdiagnosed as anxiety or menopause. Often people who suffer from hyperthyroidism go from doctor to doctor trying to figure out what is going on. This can take years. However, once diagnosed the condition is typically highly treatable. Sometimes people have cancer of the thyroid and need to have their thyroid removed. Obviously, this can also result in thyroid dysfunction.

While you are experiencing a thyroid dysfunction, the symptoms can be overwhelming. People who have missed a lot of work due to a thyroid problem usually run up against a wall when it comes to trying to get disability benefits due to the durational requirement for disability benefits. In order for you to get disability benefits, the condition you are suffering from has to have lasted or can be expected to last for a year or more before it can be considered as part of your disability application. Because this condition is usually treatable, it can be difficult to prove you have suffered disabling limitations of function for a year or more. However, treatment does not always completely alleviate symptoms. If you continue to suffer from the symptoms of thyroid dysfunction despite treatment, you could be considered disabled based on your thyroid problems.

Often thyroid dysfunction can result in psychological problem such as depression and anxiety. Even though these problems have a physiological cause, mental health treatment can help you to cope with your symptoms. A mental health care provider can help you deal with your symptoms but is also in a unique position to testify regarding your mental health symptoms. For this reason, it is important to seek the help of a mental health care provider if you thyroid dysfunction is causing you to suffer from depression or anxiety.

Even if your thyroid problems are not disabling by themselves, the fatigue and mental health issues caused by thyroid problem can be considered as contributing to your disabling limitations of function in combination with your other health problems. Be sure to tell your doctor about any symptoms you have.

We serve clients throughout the Carolinas from our offices in Spartanburg, Greenville, and Columbia.