The thyroid gland, located at the base of the neck, produces hormones (T3 and T4) that regulate metabolism, energy, temperature, heart rate, and virtually every organ system in the body. When the thyroid produces too little hormone (hypothyroidism) or too much (hyperthyroidism), the effects are wide-ranging and can mimic many other conditions — making accurate diagnosis essential. In India, thyroid disorders affect an estimated 42 million people, with women affected far more frequently than men. Iodine deficiency, autoimmune disease (Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease), and genetic factors are the most common causes. Thyroid nodules are extremely common, and while the vast majority are benign, appropriate evaluation is necessary to exclude malignancy. Dr. Atul Kakar has extensive experience diagnosing and managing the full spectrum of thyroid disease as part of his internal medicine practice at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi.
About Thyroid Disorders
When should you seek care?
How Dr. Kakar approaches treatment.
Dr. Kakar evaluates thyroid function through TSH, free T3, and free T4 levels, along with thyroid antibodies (anti-TPO, anti-thyroglobulin, TSH receptor antibodies) to identify autoimmune causes. Thyroid ultrasound is arranged for nodules or goitre. Hypothyroidism is managed with levothyroxine, with doses carefully titrated to bring TSH into the optimal range. Hyperthyroidism treatment depends on the cause — antithyroid medications (carbimazole, propylthiouracil), radioiodine, or surgical referral. Thyroid nodules are risk-stratified using TIRADS criteria; fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is arranged where indicated. Patients on long-term thyroid medication receive regular monitoring to adjust doses as requirements change.
When to see a specialist.
See a specialist if you have symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, if your TSH is outside the normal range on a blood test, if you have a lump or swelling in your neck, or if you are planning a pregnancy and have known or suspected thyroid disease. Women with thyroid disease require particularly close monitoring during pregnancy.