What is Thyroid?
Thyroid is an important endocrine gland responsible for producing and releasing hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development of the body. When this gland either makes less of or more of these hormones, it may lead to thyroid disease.
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck. It plays a crucial role in regulating various functions in the body by producing hormones. It helps control metabolism, which is the process of converting food into energy that the body can use. Triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) are the main hormones produced by the thyroid gland. These hormones are released into your bloodstream and have a significant impact on many aspects of your body. Too much thyroid hormone causes hyperthyroidism and not enough hormone production can lead to hypothyroidism. If left untreated, it can lead to complications like heart problems and cholesterol problems.
Causes of Thyroid
Thyroid disorders can be caused by various factors, depending on the type of thyroid that has affected you. The two main types of thyroid disorders are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, and their causes can differ.
Causes of hypothyroidism
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: This is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. The immune system attacks and damages the thyroid gland, leading to decreased hormone production.
- Thyroiditis: This is caused by an inflammation of the thyroid, often triggered by a viral infection, which can cause hypothyroidism.
- Radiation therapy: Certain radiation treatments can damage the thyroid gland and lead to hypothyroidism.
- Certain medications: Some medications, like lithium (used for bipolar disorder) and amiodarone (used for heart conditions), can affect thyroid function.
- Iodine deficiency: A lack of iodine, an essential nutrient for thyroid hormone production, can lead to hypothyroidism.
- Pituitary gland dysfunction: Problems with the pituitary gland, which controls hormone production in the thyroid, can cause secondary hypothyroidism.
- Congenital Hypothyroidism: Some children are born without thyroid gland or an improperly functioning thyroid gland. Such children require early treatment to avoid developmental problems and permanent damage.
Causes of hyperthyroidism
- Graves’ Disease: An autoimmune disorder where the immune system stimulates the thyroid to produce excessive hormones. It can lead to symptoms like bulging eyes (exophthalmos).
- Toxic multinodular goiter: The thyroid develops multiple nodules that produce excess thyroid hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism.
- Toxic Nodule: sometimes single thyroid nodule may be hyperfunctioning, leading to hyperthyroidism
- Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid can cause temporary hyperthyroidism.
- Excessive iodine intake: Consuming too much iodine, through diet or supplements, can lead to hyperthyroidism.
- Certain medications: Some medications, like amiodarone and interferon-alpha, can trigger hyperthyroidism.
In some cases, genetics also play a role in the development of thyroid disorders. Additionally, factors such as stress, pregnancy, and bad lifestyle choices can lead to thyroid problems.
Key Facts About Thyroid
 Usually Seen In | Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
|
 Major Symptoms | Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
|
 Necessary Health Tests |
|
 Treatment | 1. Antithyroid medications |
Symptoms of Thyroid
The symptoms of thyroid largely depend on the type of thyroid you have been affected with. The common symptoms of the thyroid include:
Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
- Facial Puffiness and leg swelling
- Intolerant to cold
- Dry skin and hair
- Constipation
- Muscle pain
- Depression or mood swings
- Slowed heart rate
- Memory problems
- Menstrual irregularities
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Unexplained weight loss
- Increased appetite
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Tremors or shaky hands
- Heat intolerance
- Excessive sweating
- Trouble sleeping
- Bulging eyes (in Graves’ disease)
- Muscle weakness
- Irregular menstrual periods
While these are common symptoms of different types of thyroid, the symptom may vary in severity and may overlap with other health conditions. It is best to get it checked by a medical professional to get a proper diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Thyroid
Most of the time, thyroid disease becomes difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can overlap with other diseases. But certain tests can help you determine whether you have thyroid or not.
Blood tests
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test: It helps determine high or low levels of thyroid hormone production.
- T3 and T4 tests: They confirm the diagnosis and determine the specific type of thyroid disorder. High levels of the thyroid hormone indicate hypothyroidism and low levels indicate hyperthyroidism.
- Your doctor may ask you to get some other tests, including cholesterol levels, glucose, and specialised thyroid tests.
Medical history
Your doctor will consider your symptoms, family history, and past medical conditions. They will also conduct a physical examination, which will involve checking your skin, hair, and nails.
Thyroid antibody tests
If an autoimmune thyroid disorder is suspected, specific antibody tests are conducted to diagnose the problem.
Radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) test
This test measures how much iodine the thyroid gland takes up from the bloodstream. It helps differentiate between different causes of hyperthyroidism.
Thyroid ultrasound
An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the thyroid gland. It helps identify nodules, inflammation, and other structural abnormalities. It has a grading system to assess the goitre and plan further management. However, ultrasound thyroid is not required unless there is a goitre.
Treatment of Thyroid
The type of thyroid, severity, and underlying causes of thyroid influence treatment. Typically, one or more of the following are used to treat the two main types of thyroid: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy: The most common treatment for hypothyroidism is taking synthetic thyroid hormone medication, such as levothyroxine. This medication helps restore normal thyroid hormone levels and alleviates the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
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Thyroid Related FAQs
Why am I not losing weight after exercising?
You could have hypothyroidism. It happens due to an underactive thyroid that can slow down your metabolism. At times, even exercise and eating a healthy diet doesn't help you lose weight.
How to lose weight with hypothyroidism?
Even though the process is going to be slow, it is going to be worth it. You have take medication, eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly to keep your weight in control.
What will happen if the thyroid is not treated?
Regardless of which type of thyroid affects you, it is important to take proper medication. If left untreated, thyroid can lead to further complications.
Can you get pregnant if you have thyroid?
If left undiagnosed, the thyroid can make it difficult to conceive. It is important to take proper medication to reduce the chances of infertility.
Why am I losing weight suddenly?
Hyperthyroidism can make you lose weight by making your body to burn carbohydrates and fats faster than normal. If you have been losing weight incessantly, you should consult a doctor immediately.
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