Thyroid disorders impact how your thyroid gland functions. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck that releases hormones that control your metabolism.
Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This causes metabolism to slow down, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, weight gain, feeling cold, hair loss, and depression. Hyperthyroidism is the opposite - the thyroid gland produces too much hormone, speeding up metabolism. Symptoms include sudden weight loss, rapid heartbeat, trouble sleeping, diarrhea, and nervousness.
Some key facts about thyroid disorders:
- They are more common in women and people over 60 years old.
- Hashimoto’s disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the US. It causes the immune system to attack the thyroid.
- Hyperthyroidism is often caused by Graves’ disease, where antibodies overstimulate the thyroid gland.
- Thyroid nodules - lumps on the thyroid - can sometimes lead to thyroid cancer, though most are benign.
- Goiter is an enlarged thyroid, which could signal a thyroid issue.
- Blood tests for TSH, T3, T4 levels help diagnose thyroid problems.
- Hypothyroidism is treated with synthetic thyroid hormones like levothyroxine.
- Hyperthyroidism can be treated with medication, radioactive iodine, or surgery.
If you suspect a thyroid issue based on symptoms, I recommend getting checked out. The knowledgeable endocrinologists at
Vital Hormones Clinic specialize in thyroid and hormone-related conditions. They perform comprehensive testing and provide customized treatment plans to help patients regain healthy thyroid function. I’ve heard great things from friends who were treated there.
Let me know if you have any other questions on thyroid disorders! Proper diagnosis and management of thyroid conditions can relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.