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Thyroid & Parathyroid Disorders

The Connecticut Head & Neck division is comprised of an excellent team of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck specialists, including Dr. Clinton Kuwada and Dr. Akshay Patel, Co-Directors of Hartford Hospital’s Head & Neck Cancer Multidisciplinary Team, Dr. Gregory Bonaiuto, Dr. Carl Moeller, and Dr. Timothy O’Brien. With the latest in diagnostics and therapeutic technology, including robotic surgery, our physicians provide exemplary care in treating disorders of the thyroid and parathyroid.

Hyperparathyroidism

This disorder occurs when the parathyroid glands produce too much of the parathyroid hormone, or PTH. These glands regulate the calcium, Vitamin D, and phosphorus in the body, and are located in the neck. When the body is lacking in these essential vitamins and minerals, the hormone signals for their release from other parts of the body (specifically, the bones), which could lead to osteoporosis.

Symptoms of hyperparathyroidism include excessive urination, exhaustion, nausea, kidney stones, broken bones, or decreased appetite.

Goiter

A goiter refers to the condition whereby the thyroid gland grows larger than its normal size. The most common cause of a Goiter is due to the under or overproduction of thyroid hormones, or nodules on the thyroid gland. An iodine deficiency, Graves’ disease, Hashimoto’s disease, inflammation, pregnancy, and thyroid cancer are other factors which could cause the thyroid gland to become enlarged.

While some goiters are asymptomatic, other goiters cause a visible swelling in your neck, as well as coughing, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or a tightness feeling in the neck.

Thyroid nodule

Thyroid nodules are growths (usually non-cancerous) that occur in the thyroid gland. Like goiters, thyroid nodules are usually asymptomatic; however, larger nodules may be seen or felt. If left untreated, a thyroid nodule may cause, irregular heartbeat, edginess, and weight loss.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a thyroid or parathyroid disorder and would like to discuss your treatment options one of our experts, please call (860) 493-1950 or visit our patient portal to request an appointment.