Thyroid gland diseases are conditions resulting from dysfunctions of the thyroid gland. Responsible for regulating the body's metabolism, the thyroid gland can cause various issues when it is underactive or overactive. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid is overactive, while hypothyroidism results from an underactive thyroid.
Contents
- What Are Thyroid Gland Diseases?
- Symptoms of Thyroid Gland Diseases
- What Causes Thyroid Gland Diseases?
- How Is Thyroid Disease Diagnosed?
- Types of Thyroid Gland Diseases
- What Are the Effects of Thyroid Gland Diseases?
- Which Doctor Should You Consult for Thyroid Gland Diseases?
- Treatment for Thyroid Gland Diseases
Hyperthyroidism can lead to symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, excitability, and irritability, whereas hypothyroidism manifests as weight gain, depression, and hair loss.
What Are Thyroid Gland Diseases?
Thyroid gland diseases are conditions arising from changes in the levels of hormones secreted by the thyroid. If the hormones are overproduced, it is called hyperthyroidism; if they are underproduced, it is called hypothyroidism. Enlargement of the thyroid gland is known as goiter, and the presence of cancerous cells in the thyroid gland is referred to as thyroid cancer.
Symptoms of Thyroid Gland Diseases
Symptoms of thyroid gland diseases can be grouped into two categories:
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
- Heart palpitations,
- Hand tremors,
- Irregular menstruation,
- Excessive sweating,
- Insomnia,
- Hair loss.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- Fatigue,
- Hoarseness,
- Depressive mood,
- Easy exhaustion, slow movements,
- Irregular menstruation,
- Constipation,
- Weight gain.
What Causes Thyroid Gland Diseases?
Thyroid gland diseases can result from various causes. Hashimoto's thyroiditis occurs when the immune system attacks the thyroid tissue, leading to hypothyroidism. Graves' disease causes hyperthyroidism due to overactivity of the thyroid gland.
Nodules in the thyroid can affect its function, causing it to work too little or too much. Iodine intake also influences the thyroid; iodine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism, while excessive iodine intake can lead to hyperthyroidism.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can impact the thyroid gland. Additionally, a family history of thyroid disease may put an individual at risk.
How Is Thyroid Disease Diagnosed?
Thyroid disease is diagnosed starting with a physical examination of the thyroid gland's size and shape in the neck. Blood tests may follow to measure thyroid hormone levels. Ultrasound imaging is used to examine the thyroid structure and nodules. Observing symptoms during the examination also aids in diagnosis.
Types of Thyroid Gland Diseases
Types of thyroid gland diseases vary depending on the dysfunction in thyroid activity:
Goiter: Enlargement of the thyroid gland. Simple growth may not cause symptoms, but larger, nodular goiters can present as swelling on one or both sides of the neck, causing symptoms like difficulty breathing, swallowing, or pain. Treatment may include medication, surgery, or radioactive iodine therapy.
Hyperthyroidism: Excessive thyroid hormone production. It can affect the heart, muscles, and nervous system, causing rapid heartbeat, hand tremors, irritability, excessive sweating, hair loss, and fatigue. Hormone-regulating medication or radioactive iodine therapy may be used for treatment.
Hypothyroidism: Insufficient thyroid hormone production. It can lead to weight gain, fatigue, hoarseness, anemia, and elevated cholesterol, contributing to heart disease. Treatment involves thyroid hormone replacement.
What Are the Effects of Thyroid Gland Diseases?
Thyroid gland diseases can disrupt metabolism, emotional health, and physical well-being. Hypothyroidism can lead to depression, anxiety, and fatigue, while hyperthyroidism can cause irritability and insomnia. Skin and hair issues such as dryness, hair loss, and brittle nails may also occur.
Which Doctor Should You Consult for Thyroid Gland Diseases?
Patients with thyroid diseases should consult specialists in thyroid surgery or general surgery for diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment for Thyroid Gland Diseases
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the disease. Hypothyroidism is usually treated with synthetic thyroid hormones to restore normal levels. Hyperthyroidism may require medication, radioactive iodine therapy, or thyroid surgery, depending on the case.
