Thyroid disease, Crohn’s & Colitis: A Focus for Awareness Month in Bondi
Our Bondi doctors & GP team discuss: Thyroid Awareness Month and Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Month in May 2025 – common chronic health conditions that affect thousands of Australians. At Ocean Medical, Bondi’s local GP medical centre, our team of Bondi GPs and doctors on Bondi Road are here to support your journey to diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management.
Pathology testing is a common way of diagnosing thyroid disease and inflammatory bowel disease. At our Bondi Road Medical Centre, we are pleased to offer daily pathology collections services through 4Cyte Pathology.
🔵 Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis: What You Need to Know
📊 Statistics in Australia
-
Over 100,000 Australians live with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
-
Most cases are diagnosed between ages 15–35, but symptoms can appear at any age.
-
The incidence of IBD is rising, with Australia having one of the highest rates in the world.
🔍 Common Symptoms
-
Chronic diarrhoea
-
Abdominal pain and cramping
-
Fatigue and weight loss
-
Blood or mucus in stools
-
Urgency and frequent bowel movements
🧪 Blood & Faecal Tests
Blood Pathology Investigations:
-
Full Blood Count (FBC) – may show anaemia or raised white cells
-
CRP/ESR – markers of inflammation
-
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) – to check for related liver involvement
-
Vitamin B12 and Iron studies – often deficient in Crohn’s
Faecal Testing:
-
Faecal Calprotectin – a highly useful marker of intestinal inflammation
-
Stool cultures – to rule out infection
Our Bondi doctors and Bondi GP team can arrange pathology tests for you. This can be conveniently performed onsite with 4cyte pathology services, available 5 days a week.
✅ Pros and ❌ Cons of Testing
| Test Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Tests | Non-invasive, useful for systemic monitoring | May not confirm diagnosis alone |
| Faecal Calprotectin | Good indicator of gut inflammation | Cannot specify which disease is present |
| Endoscopy/Colonoscopy | Visual confirmation and biopsy | Invasive, requires sedation and prep |
🟣 Thyroid Disorders: What Bondi Patients Should Know
📊 Thyroid Disorder Statistics
-
1 in 8 women will develop a thyroid disorder in their lifetime.
-
Thyroid disorders affect up to 10% of Australians, often going undiagnosed.
-
More common in women, especially after pregnancy or around menopause.
⚠️ Common Symptoms
-
Hypothyroidism: fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, depression, constipation, dry skin.
-
Hyperthyroidism: weight loss, anxiety, heat intolerance, palpitations, tremors.
🧪 Pathology & Imaging Tests
Blood Tests:
-
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) – the most sensitive indicator
-
Free T4 and Free T3 – hormone levels
-
Thyroid Antibodies – check for autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease
These pathology tests can be performed onsite 5 days a week with 4cyte pathology.
Imaging Investigations:
-
Thyroid Ultrasound – evaluates thyroid structure and nodules
-
Radioactive Iodine Uptake Scan – used in cases of suspected hyperthyroidism
✅ Pros and ❌ Cons of Investigations
| Test Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Tests | Accurate and cost-effective | May not identify structural abnormalities |
| Ultrasound | Non-invasive, no radiation | Cannot assess hormone function |
| Iodine Uptake Scan | Differentiates causes of hyperthyroidism | Involves radiation and limited availability |
🧬 Why Choose Our Bondi GP Clinic for IBD and Thyroid Management?
At our Medical Centre near you on Bondi Road, our experienced local GPs can:
-
Order relevant investigations, including bloods and imaging
-
Work closely with gastroenterologists and endocrinologists
-
Provide long-term management for chronic conditions
-
Coordinate with 4Cyte Pathology, conveniently available on-site five days a week for quick and accurate testing
🏥 We’re Open on Saturdays!
To better serve our community, our Bondi Road Medical Centre is now open on Saturdays. Whether you’re managing a chronic thyroid issue, experiencing new digestive symptoms, or simply need follow-up tests, our Bondi doctors are here to help—when it suits your schedule.
Stay Informed, Stay Healthy
Helpful resources:
-
HealthDirect – Government-funded health advice
Take Charge of Your Health This May
Whether you’re experiencing fatigue, gut symptoms, or hormonal changes, early diagnosis is key. Let our friendly Bondi GPs guide you through testing, diagnosis, and personalised treatment plans. With our on-site 4Cyte Pathology team, prompt results are always within reach.
📞 Book your appointment today with the trusted doctors on Bondi Road.
