PROCEDURES Archives - Atlantic Endocrinology New York City

Unveiling the Mystery: Who Orders Thyroid Ultrasound?

When it comes to evaluating thyroid health and diagnosing potential thyroid conditions, healthcare professionals often turn to a crucial diagnostic tool known as a thyroid ultrasound. This non-invasive imaging procedure allows for detailed visualization of the thyroid gland, helping to identify any abnormalities or structural changes. However, many people wonder who exactly has the authority to order a thyroid ultrasound. Understanding the roles of different healthcare providers in this process can provide clarity and ensure that individuals receive the necessary evaluations for their thyroid health.

During this blog, we will delve into the various professionals involved in ordering thyroid ultrasounds, shedding light on their respective responsibilities and highlighting the importance of their roles in the diagnostic journey.

Primary Care Physicians: The First Line of Detection

Primary care physicians, often the first healthcare professionals patients consult with, play a vital role in detecting and evaluating thyroid-related concerns. With their broad medical knowledge and expertise, these doctors are trained to identify potential signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders. When a patient presents with symptoms like an enlarged thyroid, unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or changes in mood, primary care physicians are likely to consider a thyroid ultrasound as part of the diagnostic process.

By ordering a thyroid ultrasound, primary care physicians can gather valuable information about the structure and condition of the thyroid gland. This imaging technique allows them to assess the size, shape, and presence of any abnormalities such as nodules or cysts. The ultrasound results serve as a crucial diagnostic tool, providing insights that aid in determining the need for further specialist involvement or additional tests. Primary care physicians play a crucial role as the initial point of contact, setting the diagnostic process in motion and ensuring timely evaluation and appropriate management of thyroid-related concerns.

Endocrinologists: The Experts in Thyroid Health

Endocrinologists are medical specialists with advanced training in hormonal disorders, including those related to the thyroid gland. When it comes to diagnosing and managing thyroid conditions, these healthcare professionals are the go-to experts. If a primary care physician suspects a thyroid disorder that requires further evaluation, they will often refer the patient to an endocrinologist.

Endocrinologists possess in-depth knowledge and expertise in assessing thyroid health. They utilize a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests, and imaging techniques like thyroid ultrasounds to make accurate diagnoses. By ordering a thyroid ultrasound, endocrinologists can visualize the thyroid gland’s structure and identify any abnormalities or irregularities that may require further investigation or treatment.

These specialists are well-versed in interpreting ultrasound findings and can determine if there are nodules, cysts, or other concerns that warrant additional testing or intervention. With their specialized knowledge and experience, endocrinologists provide comprehensive care and tailored treatment plans to address thyroid-related conditions, ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients’ thyroid health.

Radiologists: The Imaging Specialists

Radiologists are highly trained healthcare professionals specializing in medical imaging interpretation. When it comes to thyroid ultrasounds, radiologists play a critical role in analyzing and providing expert insights based on the imaging results. In the bustling medical landscape of New York, radiologists in various healthcare facilities bring their expertise to assist in the evaluation of thyroid health.

In New York, renowned for its world-class medical institutions, radiologists utilize their extensive knowledge to interpret thyroid ultrasound images accurately. These skilled professionals have a keen eye for identifying and analyzing various thyroid abnormalities, such as nodules, cysts, or tumors. By meticulously examining the ultrasound images, radiologists can provide detailed reports to the referring physicians, aiding in the diagnosis and subsequent management of thyroid conditions. Their expertise helps ensure that patients in New York receive timely and accurate assessments of their thyroid health, enabling healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding treatment plans and further investigations.

Evaluating and Planning Treatment Options

Surgeons specializing in thyroid disorders, known as endocrine surgeons, play a crucial role in evaluating thyroid ultrasound findings and determining appropriate treatment options for patients. In their practice, they consider various factors, including the age of patients, to provide personalized care in New York and beyond.

In New York, where cutting-edge medical advancements are prevalent, endocrine surgeons utilize the results of thyroid ultrasounds to evaluate the need for surgical intervention. They assess factors such as the size, location, and potential malignancy of thyroid nodules or abnormalities.

By considering the age of the patient, endocrine surgeons can tailor their treatment approach accordingly. For instance, younger patients may require surgical removal of a suspicious nodule to prevent potential future complications, while older patients with benign nodules might be managed through careful monitoring. These skilled surgeons collaborate closely with radiologists, endocrinologists, and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care and optimal outcomes for patients of varying ages in New York seeking surgical solutions for their thyroid conditions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to addressing thyroid health concerns in New York, accessing the expertise of healthcare professionals is crucial. Whether it’s the primary care physicians who act as the first line of detection, the endocrinologists specializing in thyroid disorders, the skilled radiologists interpreting ultrasound results, or the experienced surgeons evaluating treatment options, a comprehensive approach is essential.

For top-notch endocrinology services in New York, look no further than Atlantic Endocrinology. With a team of dedicated specialists, cutting-edge technology, and a patient-centric approach, Atlantic Endocrinology provides personalized care for individuals of all ages. From accurate diagnoses to tailored treatment plans, they are committed to helping patients achieve optimal thyroid health and overall well-being.

What are the stages of laser hair removal?

In recent years, laser hair removal has emerged as one of the most sought-after methods for achieving long-term hair reduction. This innovative cosmetic procedure offers individuals a semi-permanent solution to their unwanted hair concerns, delivering smooth and hair-free skin that lasts. However, before embarking on this transformative journey, it is crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of the stages involved in laser hair removal.

This blog aims to shed light on the four fundamental stages of laser hair removal, providing valuable insights and guidance to those considering this treatment. By delving into each stage, we will equip you with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and approach the procedure with confidence. From the initial consultation and assessment to the post-treatment aftercare, we will explore the key aspects of laser hair removal, offering a comprehensive overview of what to expect throughout the entire process.

Consultation and Assessment: Understanding Your Candidacy

Embarking on a laser hair removal journey begins with a vital step: a comprehensive consultation and assessment conducted by a certified professional. During this stage, several factors are carefully evaluated to determine your suitability for the treatment. Your skin type, hair color, and medical history play significant roles in this assessment, as they influence the effectiveness and safety of laser hair removal.

By analyzing your skin type, the practitioner can determine the appropriate laser technology and settings to achieve optimal results. Certain skin types may require specific precautions or adjustments during the treatment to minimize potential side effects. Similarly, your hair color is crucial as laser hair removal primarily targets melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. The contrast between the hair color and skin tone helps the laser precisely target the hair follicles for effective treatment.

Preparing for the Treatment: What Preparations Are Necessary?

Proper preparation of your skin before laser hair removal is essential to ensure the best possible results. There are several key steps you should take to prepare for the treatment. First and foremost, it is highly advised to avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for a few weeks leading up to your session. Sun exposure can increase the risk of complications and interfere with the effectiveness of laser hair removal. This is particularly important if you live in a sunny location like New York, where sun exposure is more common.

In addition to sun avoidance, it is crucial to refrain from plucking, waxing, or using hair removal creams in the treatment area prior to your session. These methods remove the hair follicles, which are the target of the laser, and may interfere with the treatment’s efficacy. However, shaving the treatment area a day or two before your appointment is typically recommended. Shaving ensures that the laser can effectively target the hair follicles without any hair on the surface, maximizing the laser’s efficacy in reaching the follicles and delivering optimal results.

Laser Hair Removal Sessions: What Happens During the Treatment?

During each laser hair removal session, a handheld laser device is used to emit concentrated beams of light onto the targeted areas. The device emits a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicles, known as melanin. The melanin absorbs the laser’s energy, which is then converted into heat. This heat damages the hair follicles, inhibiting their ability to produce new hair.

The duration of each session can vary depending on factors such as the size and number of treatment areas. Smaller areas like the upper lip or underarms may take just a few minutes, while larger areas like the legs or back can take up to an hour. In New York, where laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure, experienced practitioners ensure that the sessions are performed with precision and care, taking into account the specific needs and goals of each individual.

Aftercare and Maintenance: Ensuring Long-lasting Results

Ensuring proper aftercare is essential after undergoing laser hair removal to achieve optimal and long-lasting results. Temporary reactions such as redness, swelling, or mild discomfort in the treated area are common, but they usually resolve within a short period, varying from a few hours to a few days. Your practitioner will provide personalized post-treatment instructions designed to address your specific needs and promote effective healing.

Activities that may irritate the treated area, such as excessive sweating, swimming in chlorinated water, or using harsh skincare products, should be avoided during the initial healing period. It’s important to follow your practitioner’s guidance to ensure proper care and minimize any potential complications.

In addition to aftercare, periodic maintenance sessions may be necessary to address any regrowth or new hair growth over time. Although laser hair removal offers long-term hair reduction, some hair follicles may enter an active growth phase after the initial treatment sessions. Maintenance sessions help to target these newly active follicles, ensuring that you continue to enjoy smooth and hair-free skin in the long run.

In conclusion.

In conclusion, at Atlantic Endocrinology, we understand the importance of comprehensive and personalized laser hair removal services. Our team of certified professionals in New York is dedicated to providing you with a seamless and effective treatment experience. From the initial consultation and assessment to the laser hair removal sessions and post-treatment aftercare, we prioritize your safety, comfort, and satisfaction.

What Do Endocrinologists Test For?

The endocrine system and its illnesses are the focus of the medical discipline known as endocrinology. A collection of sizable glands that make hormones makes up the endocrine system, also referred to as the glandular system.

What do endocrinologists test for?

A physician who focuses on treating endocrine system diseases is known as an endocrinologist. These illnesses can affect the way hormones are produced or released, how they interact with one another, and how hormone-producing and hormone-using organs function.

Hormonal imbalance

There are some people who just don’t feel well for no apparent reason, not even one of the usual ailments.

These people may constantly feel exhausted or gain weight in odd ways. If they are young, they might not be growing at all or too much. These are only a few of the signs of hormone imbalance, which is brought on by endocrine system anomalies.

The eight glands that make up the endocrine system produce the hormones that keep our bodies in balance:

Parathyroids
Thyroid Adrenal glands
Pineal body
Hypothalamus
Pituitary gland
Reproductive system gland
Pancreas

Endocrinology Diagnostic Tests that Are Coded

Diagnostic tests are used by endocrinologists at the Atlantic Endocrinology & Diabetes Center in New York for a variety of purposes.

These include:

To diagnose the reason for an endocrinology problem/condition
To confirm some earlier diagnosis
To measure the hormone levels in the patient’s body
To find whether the endocrine glands are working perfectly

They may order tests such as:

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)
Dexamethasone suppression test
Semen analysis
5 day glucose sensor test for diabetes
Fine needle aspiration biopsy
Oral glucose tolerance test
Bone density test
24 hour urine collection test
TSH blood testACTH stimulation test
CRH stimulation test
Thyroid scan

Treatments Usually Recommended

The endocrinologist offers appropriate treatments that can be reimbursed for payment in accordance with the condition or disease.

Thyroid hormone replacement therapy
Radioactive iodine therapy
Insulin pump
Parathyroid hormone therapy and Bisphosphonate therapy for osteoporosis
Pituitary hormone replacement therapy
Male hormone replacement therapy

What is an endocrine test?

There are a number of reason an endocrinologist uses diagnostic tests for:

To confirm an earlier diagnosis
To find out the levels of various hormones in a patient’s body
To identify the cause of an endocrinological problem
To check if the endocrine glands are working correctly

An endocrine test can assist in the diagnosis of numerous conditions and hormonal diseases, such as:

Carcinoid tumors (slow-growing neuroendocrine tumors)
Reproductive endocrinology
Pituitary thyroid adrenal bone and parathyroid (gland beside thyroid gland)
Neuroendocrine tumors (in cells of endocrine and nervous system)

Why are endocrine tests done?

Numerous physiological processes, such as secondary sexual traits, fertility, growth, metabolism, and sleep, are influenced by hormones. Therefore, it is frequently crucial to ensure that the hormones are working effectively.

Endocrine tests are performed for a variety of causes, including gynecomastia and the sense of weakness, exhaustion, or lethargy.

The precise gland implicated determines the symptoms of an endocrine problem, which might vary greatly.

An endocrine test can check for endocrine disorders such as:

Heart problems
Hypertensive problems
Adrenal problems
Calcium problems
Pituitary problems
Thyroid problems
Glucose (islet cell) problems
Gonadal problems

What an endocrinology test tests for

Numerous tests are available to endocrinologists that they might employ to uncover issues with bodily function.

Here is a short list of some of the tests that are available:

Bone density test
Oral glucose tolerance test
Five-day glucose sensor test (for diabetes)
Semen analysis
24-hour urine collection test
CRH stimulation test
Thyroid scan

There are a ton of other tests available, in fact. The endocrinologist would be responsible for deciding whether tests are required in light of the patient’s particular complaints and symptoms. Since some of these tests can be rather pricey, a focused strategy is preferred to broad testing.

The sort of test or tests the doctor chooses to give will, of course, determine what these types of tests are testing for.

Following that, the below are some of the questions the doctor would be seeking for solutions to:

To confirm certain diagnoses from other tests
To identify specific endocrinological issues
Current hormone levels in the patient’s body
To determine whether endocrine glands and the endocrine system are working properly

These would be the testing’s broad goals. These tests can also be used to diagnose some highly specific endocrine disorders and diseases. However, the following list is not exhaustive:

neuroendocrine tumors (mostly found in the cells of endocrine and nervous systems)
Thyroid malfunctions that could be causing issues with metabolism, weight, cholesterol levels, and muscle strength
Pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, bone and parathyroid
Reproductive endocrinology
Search for the presence of diabetes
Bones Diseases, including bone cancer
Reproductive issues with semen and egg cells
Carcinoid tumors
The presence of high hormone counts which can lead to heart and blood problems

An endocrinologist can decide on the best course of treatment once this kind of testing has shown specific issues. That could involve prescription drugs, hormone injections, chemotherapy, surgery, a visit to the doctor of chiropractic, or anything as straightforward as a change in diet or exercise routine.

What do abnormal results mean?

The testing technique utilized will determine how anomalous results are interpreted.

However, an endocrine test frequently reveals the following ailments:

Multiple endocrine neoplasia I and II.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Precocious puberty.
Hyperthyroidism.
Hypopituitarism.
Diabetes
Adrenal insufficiency. Cushing’s disease.
Gigantism (acromegaly) and other growth hormone problems.

Why Is A Sudomotor Scan Done

At Atlantic Endocrinology & Diabetes Center we know that statistics indicate that 70%-80% of all patients with chronic autoimmune and/or Endocrine Conditions develop Neuropathy.

Sudomotor Scans diagnose the onset of peripheral neuropathy before it has affected the major nerves.

This means that early detection allows you to delay or prevent the neuropathy from spreading to the nerves, therefore reducing the incidence of full-blown neuropathy, infections, and possible amputations.

This is a non-invasive, painless state-of-the-art test that gives instant results.

This test provides an accurate evaluation of sweat gland function. The test focuses on small nerve fibers that innervate the sweat glands. The degeneration of small nerve fibers reduces sweat gland innervation and impairs sudomotor function.

The test helps to measure the ability of the sweat glands to release chloride ions in response to an electrical stimulus on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, areas with the highest sweat gland density.

It provides a quantitative measure of chloride conductance and its results serve as a biomarker to assess sweat gland function.

The test results can be used as indicators for patients at risk of autonomic dysfunction through the measurement of Electrochemical Skin Conductance (ESC).

What Are The Benefits To A Sudomotor Scan?

A Sudomotor scan may be recommended for a number of reasons.

Ultimately, this diagnostic scan:

Provides important data related to the peripheral autonomic nervous system and the potential for painful neuropathy.
Facilitates the most accurate diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy compared to standardized testing.
Provides valuable information related to the cause of peripheral neuropathy.
Reaches high rates of sensitivity and specificity, related to the accuracy of test results.
Evaluates autonomic and somatic nerve function (shown to be one of the best estimates of cardiovascular risk)

Early intervention can greatly decrease the potential for severe and permanent nerve damage, which results in painful neuropathy.
Supports fast adjustments to therapeutic care since it provides data related to the physical response of a treatment protocol.

What are the reasons to get tested with SUDOSCAN?

Sudomotor dysfunction is recognized by the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), American Diabetic Association (ADA) and American Academy of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) as a symptom of autonomic neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes, Parkinson Disease, and amyloidosis for example. Sudomotor tests such as SUDOSCAN are used in the evaluation of autonomic and small fiber neuropathies.

SUDOSCAN is a fast and non-invasive test that can be used to establish a patient’s baseline, detect subclinical nerve damage, then evaluate clinically significant changes in medical status.

Research suggests that simple lifestyle changes can significantly improve sudomotor function as measured with SUDOSCAN and correlates with cardio-metabolic improvement.

Does gender play a factor in the results?

Evaluation of sudomotor function using other tests such as Quantitative Sudomotor Axon Reflex Test (QSART) has revealed that women generally have lower results (sweat output) than men.

This can be explained by lower sweat rates in women. Measurements performed by SUDOSCAN do not depend on sweat rate.

A study performed on more than 500 women and more than 200 men showed no significant differences in hand or feet ESC.

Does ethnicity play a role?

Sweat rates vary from individual to individual and do not influence the results of SUDOSCAN.

However, sweat gland physiology can vary by ethnicity and the effect this may have on SUDOSCAN results are under investigation.

Ongoing studies of large populations should clarify normative ranges for different ethnicities.

How do nerve conduction studies or EMG correlate with SUDOSCAN?

Nerve conduction studies (NCS, also known as EMG) measure the function of large, myelinated nerves.

They can be used for evaluating large motor or sensory nerves, but not the sensory nerves that are thin and unmyelinated – such as heat, cold, and pain perception.

SUDOSCAN measures the function of sweat gland sympathetic C-fibers. The function of these nerves correlates closely with small sensory nerves of the C-fiber variety.

However SUDOSCAN and nerve conduction studies are not likely to correlate since they measure 2 different categories of nerves.

Evaluation of sudomotor function in diabetes

One of the significant causes of nerve damage is diabetes. Diabetic patients suffer from metabolic impairment and related inflammatory processes.

As a result, their non-myelinated axons of small fiber nerves are primarily affected and known as Diabetic Autonomic Neuropathy (DAN).

There are presently several clinical studies ongoing to validate SudoCheck’s new technology for DAN detection.

Small fiber nerves are early victims of diabetes

While symptoms remain sub-clinical, diabetes affects the peripheral nervous system, and small nerve fibers are usually the first victims.

SudoCheck was developed as a new device to follow up on complications related to diabetes.

Sudomotor Scan Results

The most valuable aspect of the Sudomotor scan is that it provides immediate and accurate information.

Using the Sudomotor scan, we are able to obtain valuable information without invasive technique and without waiting time.

This then enables us to act quickly to treat underlying conditions that could lead to damage in large nerve fibers.

If you have any questions or comments, or if you want to learn more about the services we provide, please contact us.

Reasons to Opt For Laser Hair Removal Treatments

Here’s everything you need to know about the procedure and how Atlantic Endocrinology & Diabetes Center’s laser hair removal treatment can benefit you.

For both men and women, laser hair removal is a safe, comfortable, and proven alternative to shaving and waxing. Whatever your needs, this treatment can help successfully remove or slow unwanted hair growth.

Unwanted hair on large areas of your body can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Luckily, laser hair removal is a revolutionary treatment that can help you slow down unwanted hair growth for smooth skin all year round!

At Atlantic Endocrinology & Diabetes Center we use the advanced equipment to remove unwanted hair from various areas of the body, including:

Face, ears, and neck
Back and shoulders
Chest and stomach
Arms/underarms

Incredible Benefits of Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is an innovative permanent hair removal solution that works by using a therapeutic heat to destroy your hair follicles ability to grow hair. At our clinic, we use an advanced hair removal system that requires only 4-8 treatments for best results.

Here are some of the multitude of benefits you’ll receive when you opt for this procedure:

Lower lifetime hair removal costs. Most patients only require 4-6 treatments to achieve minimum regrowth. Any returning hairs will be much finer, fewer, and paler, making this procedure an excellent long-term investment.
Minimal side effects: There are only a few minor side effects of laser hair removal, including temporary discomfort, redness, or swelling in the treatment area. These don’t last for more than a few days.
The treatment is quick and convenient. Depending on what area of your body you are treating, you can be in and out of your laser hair removal appointment in the span of a lunch break. You don’t have to worry about downtime, or sticky residue like you have to with waxing.
Reduction of ingrown hairs: Ingrown hairs commonly show up in areas of the body that have been shaved or waxed, because the hair has been broken off unevenly. However, with laser hair removal, you won’t have to worry about ingrown hairs, and when your hair does grow back, it tends to be sparse and fine.
You can enjoy better-looking skin. Not only do waxing and shaving cause ingrown hairs, but they can also lead to permanent scars or darkened skin. Laser hair removal is safer and more effective and will lead to silky smooth, evenly toned skin.
Laser hair removal leaves your skin softer than before: With laser hair removal, there’s no stray hair or stubble left behind. Your skin will feel silky smooth after a session, and even when it does eventually grow back, it’s thinner and softer than before.

Advances in laser technology have improved the results that people get from laser hair removal. Now, some of the complications that existed years ago have all but disappeared. Laser hair removal is a non-invasive approach that permanently reduces or removes hair in a targeted area.

Laser hair removal is performed by a professional who is specially trained in how to use the technology. The lasers are used to target patches of hair with controlled pulses of light. This light is absorbed by the dark hair follicles. After multiple treatments, the light causes the hair follicles to be permanently affected. One of the benefits of laser hair removal is that it is performed without damaging the patient’s skin. This cannot be said of other techniques, such as shaving or waxing. In fact, shaving and waxing can damage the skin so badly that the resulting blisters, redness and infections are worse than having the hair in the first place.

Once the treatment has been completed, patients have soft, smooth skin and a noticeable reduction of unwanted hair. Human hair growth is cyclical. As a result, the number of treatments a patient is going to need will vary depending on their skin type, their hair type and how coarse their hair is. Most hair removal treatments are performed on the shoulders, upper lip, back and in the bikini area.

Excessive hair growth can be extremely frustrating. It can detract from a person’s appearance and make them feel self-conscious when they are in public.

Laser hair removal is an excellent way to address these concerns in a safe, quick and potentially permanent way. To learn more about how laser hair removal can benefit you, set up a consultation at Atlantic Endocrinology & Diabetes Center in Rego Park, New York. Our team of highly qualified professionals will help you every step of the way as you say goodbye to your unwanted body hair. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!

The Purpose Of A Spirometry Test

A spirometry test examines the function of your lungs by measuring both how much air you can inhale and how much you can exhale.

Why is spirometry done?

At Atlantic Endocrinology & Diabetes Center a spirometry test determines if lungs are functioning at expected levels. It helps our specialist to diagnose lung and airway diseases. For example, the test can detect chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) before symptoms develop. The test can also check for pulmonary fibrosis, or scarring of the lung tissue.

Other reasons why spirometry is done:

To determine lung capacity
To measure the changes over time of chronic diseases on lung function
To identify early changes in lung function and in some cases to help guide treatment
To detect narrowing in the airways
To decide how likely it is that inhaled medicines may help with symptoms
To show whether exposure to substances has altered lung function
To estimate your risk of respiratory complications before undergoing surgery

What should I expect during spirometry?

Spirometry can be done in the doctor’s office or a special lung function laboratory. You can expect to go through the following during spirometry:

Soft clips will be placed on your nose. This helps you breathe out only through the tube attached to the spirometer.
You will be asked to take a deep breath in.
Then, you will blow into a tube connected to the spirometer. You will be asked to blow as hard and fast as you can.
You may also be asked to breathe in a medicine that helps to open your airways followed by blowing out into the tube again.
The doctor will see the test results before and after you inhaled the medicine and determine whether you may benefit from treatment with it.

You feel no pain during the test. The test is repeated three times to make sure the results are reproducible and accurate. It usually takes up to 30 minutes to complete the test. You might feel lightheaded or tired due to the effort of breathing in and out so deeply. You may also cough as a result of blowing into the tube. Those symptoms should quickly resolve after completing the test.

Conditions That Spirometry Can Diagnose

Your doctor will look at your test results to figure out what may be making it hard to breathe. Common causes include:

Asthma
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Cystic fibrosis
Scars in your lungs (pulmonary fibrosis)

Spirometry Terms You Should Know

Here are some terms you will probably hear from your healthcare provider if you are doing spirometry.

FVC (forced vital capacity)

This is essentially your lung capacity – the amount of air your lungs can hold.

FEV1 (forced expiratory volume)

This is the amount of air you can release in a single second. Generally speaking, the higher the amount of air you can release, the healthier your lungs are. Low FEV ratings could indicate an inflamed airway.

FEV1%

Your FEV1% refers to your lung capacity as compared to other individuals of the same height, weight, age, and sex. A score of 70-80% is considered average.

What do the test results mean?

Spirometry can help doctors determine:

If the patient’s symptoms are caused by asthma or another process
If there is a blockage or narrowing in the airways
If treatment is working
If a disease is stable or getting worse
Level of severity of the disease
If lungs are lower in volume than normal which may warrant additional testing

What follow-up is necessary?

The doctor will review the test results with you. At that time, the doctor will set treatment goals and a long-term plan based on the results of the spirometer.

Benefits of Taking a Spirometry Test

Now that you know what a spirometry test is, why should you take one? Spirometry provides numerous benefits for those with chronic lung conditions. Here are just some of the benefits of taking regular spirometry tests.

Notice changes in your lung health.

Since there is currently no cure for chronic lung diseases, it is extremely important that you proactively look for changes in your lung health. Whether positive or negative, consistently measuring your lung capacity allows you to see changes as they occur. If you wait until your next doctor’s visit to see whether your lung capacity has increased, decreased, or remained stationary, you might miss something important.

Stay on top of your lung health by taking spirometry tests every day to every other day. It only takes a moment, and it can make a huge difference.

Develop an action plan with the help of your doctor.

Spirometry provides the perfect avenue for you and your physician to get on the same page. Remote monitoring of your spirometry data by the doctor provides insight into your overall condition. You and your doctor can use your scores to develop a “lung health action plan,” which details the best course of action for maintaining your health.

Papillary Thyroid Cancer: Is Surgery Always Necessary?

Thyroid disease is managed by our hormone specialists called endocrinologists, individuals may present with different symptoms and after a comprehensive history and some investigative work, our doctors will work to understand each person’s thyroid function.

The frequency of Thyroid Disease has expanded fundamentally throughout recent years, and in large numbers because of growths being recognized unexpectedly on imaging studies. It is critical to take note of that notwithstanding the expanded pace of identification, the death rate from thyroid disease remains exceptionally low and unaltered. Consequently, a large number of these diseases are generally safe, and whenever left alone, would likely not represent a danger to the patient.

There has been significant research looking at monitoring low risk thyroid cancers without surgery especially when surgically removing the tumor could potentially do more harm than good. This monitoring approach without surgical intervention is known as active surveillance.

As a rule, to be qualified for dynamic observation: the cancer ought to be ≤1-1.5cm, there ought not be any proof of lymph hub metastases, there ought not be doubt of more forceful subtypes like tall cell or sclerosing variant papillary thyroid disease, and the growth ought not be situated almost a weak region where development could think twice about designs like the windpipe or the intermittent laryngeal nerve.

Dynamic observation ought to be done at a clinical focus with a multidisciplinary approach and ultrasound skill. Dynamic observation normally involves checking with ultrasound like clockwork at first with expansion of the reconnaissance span over the long run.

While going through observation, assuming there is critical development (≥3mm) of the knob, proof of lymph hub contribution, augmentation into adjoining designs, or change in understanding inclination, then, at that point, careful mediation is suggested. Medical procedures at the season of sickness movement have been displayed to have a similar superb visualization. There have been continuous imminent investigations on dynamic reconnaissance throughout the span of the most recent twenty years that have shown a low pace of movement (10-15%) and no passings or improvement of far-off metastasis during dynamic observation.

The choice to seek after dynamic observation is a common choice between the patient and the doctor after conversation of the dangers and advantages in light of every patient’s novel conditions. Extra factors while considering dynamic observation include: cost and time related with arrangements required for reconnaissance, period of patient, clinical comorbidities, and the conceivable expanded close to home weight or tension that can come about because of picking to not eliminate the disease at season of introductory analysis.

The “best” treatment strategy will differ depending on each patient.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU CHECK YOUR THYROID LEVELS?

Several years ago, the American College of Physicians recommended that all women over the age of 50 get thyroid testing once or more every 5 years. However, because thyroid disease can affect people of all ages, testing may take place far sooner than that.