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Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD

(1 Rating)

Specializes in: Adult Endocrinology

Albany Medical College (1989)

Professional interests include: metabolism, metabolic disorders, thyroid problems, and more.

220 Washington Avenue Extension
Albany, NY 12203

(518) 489-4704

Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD is an endocrinologist in Albany, NY specializing in adult endocrinology. She graduated from Albany Medical College in 1989 and has 36 years of experience. Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD is affiliated with Albany Medical Center and Albany Medical College.

Office Locations

Address:

1365 Washington Avenue Suite 300
Albany, NY 12206

Address:

220 Washington Avenue Extension
Albany, NY 12203

Some issues Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD can help you with:

Thyroid Problems

Thyroid problems are a group of conditions that alter hormone regulation and metabolism. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck, just below the Adam's apple (laryngeal prominence) and larynx (voice box). Despite its small size, the thyroid has an outsized effect on the body by regulating hormones that control metabolism. Metabolism is the body's process of converting consumed food into fuel to power the entire body. Heart rate, weight, cholesterol, body temperature, and even physical growth and development are all affected by the metabolism.

When the thyroid malfunctions, the body is unable to properly process and allocate energy. Thyroid problems, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), cause irregular metabolism. In some cases, the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid cells for unknown reasons. The damaged thyroid responds by releasing either too little or too much T3 and T4 thyroid hormones. Thyroid malfunctions may also arise from genetic causes or iodine deficiency. Thyroid problems may include:

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease that causes hypothyroidism
Graves' disease, an autoimmune disease that causes hyperthyroidism
Goiter
Thyroid nodule
Thyroid cancer

Hashimoto's is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones to stimulate adequate metabolism. The condition is diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and detect Hashimoto's antibodies. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include sluggish metabolism, inflammation, fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold. To supplement impaired thyroid function, patients with Hashimoto's are typically prescribed synthetic thyroid hormone pills. Such patients may need to consume synthetic thyroids for the rest of their lives. Other treatments may include dietary changes, such as the avoidance of certain foods and medication to reduce inflammation. Frequent blood tests can inform patients if their TSH levels are within a normal range.

Grave's disease is most frequently the cause of hyperthyroidism, which is when the thyroid produces too many hormones, overstimulating one's metabolism. The condition is also diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH and detect Grave's antibodies. Elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, sweating, bulging eyes, and weight loss are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Treatments for hyperthyroidism include oral radioactive iodine, which slowly shrinks the thyroid, slowing the production of excess thyroid hormone. Other anti-thyroid medications such as methimazole (Tapazole) also reduce the production of thyroid hormones. Blood pressure medications known as beta blockers can ease the increased heart rate caused by hyperthyroidism. If treatments are unsuccessful, patients may be prescribed a thyroidectomy, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid. Some patients with hyperthyroidism may require ophthalmological (eye medicine) treatments such as eye drops, prednisone, and surgery to reduce eye swelling and bulging.

Untreated thyroid disorders frequently lead to goiters or thyroid nodules. A thyroid goiter is a large lump that can be felt near the base of the neck and is made of swollen thyroid tissue or nodules (excess cell growth). Nodules and goiters are diagnosed by CT scan or ultrasound. Obstructive goiters can cause pain, coughing, and abnormal breathing. The most common cause of goiters is hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). However, Hashimoto's is also known to cause goiters or nodules. Goiters develop from continued damage from antibodies to the thyroid over time. At times, a goiter can result from a cancerous thyroid tumor. Most goiters and nodules are themselves benign.

The exact causes of thyroid cancer are unknown. People who develop thyroid cancer may or may not have another thyroid problem such as Hashimoto's or Grave's disease. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include a nodule that can be felt on the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swelling in the neck, and neck and throat pain. CT and MRI scans are used to diagnose thyroid cancer. There are four types of thyroid cancer which vary in intensity. Thyroidectomy (thyroid removal surgery) is usually prescribed to treat thyroid cancer.

Thyroid problems are often long-term conditions that require some form of treatment. With regular monitoring and medication, many people with thyroid problems are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.

blood draw	446
diabetes management	315
doctor visit	504
lab tests	2542
musculoskeletal imaging	53
neck imaging	52
preventive care	588
thyroid function tests	703
ultrasound (sonogram)	84
vaccines	38
vascular procedures	32
X-rays	53

**Gender**
Male	54
Female	168

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	207
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	117
From 75 to 84	48
85 and over	13
Less than 65	44

Hypertension	58
High Cholesterol	68
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	34
Depression	16
Chronic Kidney Disease	19
Asthma	8
Osteoperosis	10
Atrial Fibrilation	7
Heart Failure	13
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	8
Diabetes	56
Dementia	5
Cancer	9

blood draw	89
diabetes management	71
doctor visit	475
lab tests	462
musculoskeletal imaging	50
neck imaging	27
preventive care	154
thyroid function tests	138
ultrasound (sonogram)	53
vaccines	45
vascular procedures	26
X-rays	50

**Gender**
Male	57
Female	160

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	200
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	108
From 75 to 84	54
85 and over	13
Less than 65	42

Hypertension	54
High Cholesterol	62
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	31
Depression	14
Chronic Kidney Disease	22
Asthma	11
Osteoperosis	7
Atrial Fibrilation	12
Heart Failure	18
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	6
Diabetes	58
Dementia	6
Cancer	6

blood draw	40
doctor visit	414
musculoskeletal imaging	46
neck imaging	40
preventive care	50
ultrasound (sonogram)	54
vaccines	54
vascular procedures	14
X-rays	46

**Gender**
Male	100
Female	340

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	412
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	220
From 75 to 84	100
85 and over	28
Less than 65	92

Hypertension	53
High Cholesterol	61
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	28
Depression	18
Chronic Kidney Disease	23
Asthma	10
Osteoperosis	10
Atrial Fibrilation	9
Heart Failure	18
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	9
Diabetes	52
Dementia	6
Cancer	10

doctor visit	433
musculoskeletal imaging	45
neck imaging	61
preventive care	70
ultrasound (sonogram)	103
vaccines	74
vascular procedures	42
X-rays	45

**Gender**
Male	55
Female	175

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	214
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	112
From 75 to 84	52
85 and over	23
Less than 65	43

Hypertension	56
High Cholesterol	59
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	29
Depression	16
Chronic Kidney Disease	29
Asthma	13
Osteoperosis	5
Atrial Fibrilation	11
Heart Failure	17
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	6
Diabetes	48
Dementia	5
Cancer	10

doctor visit	455
musculoskeletal imaging	38
neck imaging	66
preventive care	34
ultrasound (sonogram)	119
vaccines	38
vascular procedures	53
X-rays	38

**Gender**
Male	54
Female	174

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	207
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	110
From 75 to 84	56
85 and over	24
Less than 65	38

Hypertension	52
High Cholesterol	57
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	30
Depression	16
Chronic Kidney Disease	29
Asthma	11
Osteoperosis	6
Atrial Fibrilation	10
Heart Failure	18
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	7
Diabetes	43
Dementia	6
Cancer	11

doctor visit	428
musculoskeletal imaging	64
neck imaging	68
preventive care	25
ultrasound (sonogram)	110
vaccines	29
vascular procedures	42
X-rays	64

**Gender**
Male	55
Female	174

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	209
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	107
From 75 to 84	62
85 and over	26
Less than 65	34

Hypertension	60
High Cholesterol	63
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	35
Depression	17
Chronic Kidney Disease	30
Asthma	10
Osteoperosis	10
Atrial Fibrilation	10
Heart Failure	21
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	6
Diabetes	47
Dementia	6
Cancer	0

doctor visit	437
musculoskeletal imaging	39
neck imaging	76
preventive care	17
ultrasound (sonogram)	128
vaccines	21
vascular procedures	52
X-rays	39

**Gender**
Male	47
Female	175

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	201
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	111
From 75 to 84	58
85 and over	22
Less than 65	31

Hypertension	61
High Cholesterol	70
Stroke	6
Ischemic Heart Disease	40
Depression	18
Chronic Kidney Disease	31
Asthma	13
Osteoperosis	8
Atrial Fibrilation	7
Heart Failure	23
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	0
Diabetes	45
Dementia	6
Cancer	13

diabetes management	14
doctor visit	396
musculoskeletal imaging	39
neck imaging	68
preventive care	49
ultrasound (sonogram)	117
vaccines	38
vascular procedures	49
X-rays	39

**Gender**
Male	52
Female	201

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	228
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	128
From 75 to 84	67
85 and over	26
Less than 65	32

Hypertension	60
High Cholesterol	67
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	41
Depression	17
Chronic Kidney Disease	32
Asthma	9
Osteoperosis	13
Atrial Fibrilation	13
Heart Failure	22
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	6
Diabetes	45
Dementia	7
Cancer	10

doctor visit	953
musculoskeletal imaging	86
X-rays	86

Average Medicare Procedure Volume From 2013 - 2021

Volume of procedures performed by Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD for Medicare patients.

The highest averages for the top procedures that Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD treated as an endocrinologist in Albany, NY were lab tests, thyroid function tests, blood draw and diabetes management.

blood draw	191
diabetes management	133
doctor visit	499
lab tests	1009
musculoskeletal imaging	51
neck imaging	57
preventive care	129
thyroid function tests	421
ultrasound (sonogram)	96
vaccines	44
vascular procedures	38
X-rays	51

Average Medicare Patient Data From 2013 - 2021

Information about Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD.

**Gender**
Female	156
Male	47

**Ethnicity**
Black / African American	0
Asian / Pacific Islander	0
Non-Hispanic White	187
Native American / Alaskan Native	0
Hispanic	0
Other	0

**Age**
85 and over	17
75 to 84	49
Less than 65	35
65 to 74	101

Average of Total of Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD From 2013 - 2021

The highest averages of the most common conditions of Medicare patients that Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD treated were high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes and ischemic heart disease.

Hypertension	45
High Cholesterol	50
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	26
Depression	13
Chronic Kidney Disease	21
Asthma	8
Osteoporosis	6
Heart Failure	15
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	4
Diabetes	39
Atrial Fibrillation	7
Dementia	4
Cancer	6

Education & Training

Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD graduated from Albany Medical College in 1989. She completed residency at Albany Medical Center. She is certified by the Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism American Board of Internal Medicine and has a state license in New York.

Medical School: Albany Medical College (1989)

Residency: Albany Medical Center

Board Certification: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism American Board of Internal Medicine (1997)

Licensed In: New York

Affiliations & Hospitals

Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD is associated with these hospitals and organizations:

Albany Medical Center

Albany Medical College

Ratings & Reviews

Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD has an exceptional overall rating with an average of 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 1 ratings. We collect ratings and reviews of Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD from all over the web to help you find the right in Albany, NY.

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General Payments

These charts describe general payments received by Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD. Doctors may receive payments for a number of reasons, including meal compensation, travel compensation, and consulting.

**Payments by Company**
Novo Nordisk Inc	$1,008 Ozempic $287	RYBELSUS $243	Tresiba $181	Saxenda $103	Victoza $57	Other $137
INSULET CORPORATION	$734 OMNIPODINSULINMANAGEMENTSYSTEM $400	Omnipod $334
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP	$483 FARXIGA $315	LOKELMA $18	ONGLYZA $18	$133
Abbott Laboratories	$340 Diabetes Care $340
Lilly USA, LLC	$273 MOUNJARO $145	LYUMJEV $51	JARDIANCE $26	AXIRON $15	HUMULIN $13	Other $22
Other	$1,745 MINIMED 780G $180	Synthroid $101	Minimed 670G System $99	Minimed 630G $96	TZIELD $91	Other $1,177

**Types of Payments**
Food and Beverage	$3,835
Consulting Fee	$400
Education	$341
Travel and Lodging	$8

Biography

Dr. Sharon Tietgens is an adult endocrinology specialist in Albany, NY. Her areas of clinical interest consist of diabetes, thyroid problems, and metabolism. Before performing her residency at Albany Medical Center, Dr. Tietgens attended Albany Medical College for medical school. She is affiliated with Albany Medical College.