What is a Thyroid Disorder?
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck below the Adam's apple. It produces thyroid hormones that help regulate growth, metabolism, and other important bodily functions.
Thyroid disorders occur when the thyroid gland does not produce the right amount of hormones. There are several types of thyroid disorders:
- Hypothyroidism - When the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This slows down the body's metabolism and can cause fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, and feeling cold.
- Hyperthyroidism - When too much thyroid hormone is produced, speeding up the metabolism. Symptoms include unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, trouble sleeping, nervousness, and irritability.
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis - An autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid. This typically leads to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
- Graves' disease - Another autoimmune disorder that usually results in an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
Some key signs your thyroid may not be working properly include:
- Unexplained weight changes
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Feeling cold or hot all the time
- Menstrual cycle changes
- Mood changes like depression
What causes thyroid problems? Thyroid disorders can be caused by:
- Iodine deficiency
- Immune system disorders like Hashimoto's and Graves' disease
- Inflammation of the thyroid
- Medications
- Tumors
- Radiation exposure
- Inherited conditions
How are thyroid disorders diagnosed and treated?
Thyroid disorders are usually diagnosed with blood tests that check thyroid hormone levels along with an examination of symptoms. Common treatments include:
- Levothyroxine: Synthetic thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism
- Anti-thyroid medications: Used to treat hyperthyroidism by blocking excess hormone production
- Radioiodine therapy: Uses radioactive iodine to shrink an overactive thyroid
- Surgery: Removing part or all of the thyroid gland
Catching and properly treating thyroid issues early is important to help regulate metabolism and prevent complications. Let your doctor know if you experience unexplained weight changes, fatigue, hair loss, or other symptoms that may indicate a thyroid disorder. Appropriate treatment can help restore thyroid balance and relieve unpleasant symptoms.