Thyroid disorders are very common, affecting around 12% of the population. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that produces thyroid hormones. These hormones help regulate metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and more.
There are several types of thyroid disorders:
| Disorder | Description |
|---|---|
| Hypothyroidism | The thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, depression, and feeling cold. It is most often caused by Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune disorder. Treatment involves taking synthetic thyroid hormone medication to replace the missing hormones. |
| Hyperthyroidism | The thyroid is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms include unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremors, nervousness, and irritability. It is often caused by Graves' disease, another autoimmune disorder. Treatment may involve antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery. |
| Goiter | An enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can be related to iodine deficiency, Hashimoto's disease, or other causes. Although a goiter may not cause symptoms at first, a large goiter can eventually cause coughing, breathing difficulties, and swallowing problems. |
| Thyroid nodules | Lumps that develop in the thyroid gland and are usually benign. However, around 5% are cancerous, so evaluation is important. Most often, fine needle aspiration is done to collect cells for examination under a microscope. |
| Thyroid cancer | Fairly uncommon, making up only about 1% of cancers. The most common types are papillary and follicular cancer, which have a good prognosis if caught early. Treatment may involve surgically removing part or all of the thyroid gland and radioactive iodine therapy. |
There are various factors that can contribute to the development of thyroid disorders, including:
If you're experiencing symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or swelling in the neck, it's important to see your doctor. They can perform blood tests and imaging to evaluate thyroid function and look for abnormalities.
| Test | Description |
|---|---|
| Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test | Measures the level of TSH in the blood, which can indicate if the thyroid is underactive or overactive. |
| Free thyroxine (T4) test | Measures the level of free T4 in the blood, which can help diagnose hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. |
| Thyroid antibody tests | Can detect antibodies that may be present in autoimmune thyroid disorders like Hashimoto's disease or Graves' disease. |
| Thyroid ultrasound | Uses sound waves to create images of the thyroid gland, which can help detect nodules or other abnormalities. |
Proper treatment can help resolve symptoms and prevent complications. Treatment options may include:
Thyroid disorders are common and can cause a variety of symptoms that affect quality of life. If you suspect you may have a thyroid disorder, it's important to see your doctor for proper evaluation and treatment. With the right care, most people with thyroid disorders can manage their condition and lead healthy, active lives.
For personalized care and expertise in thyroid and hormone conditions, consider visiting Restorative Health Center. Their team of endocrinologists can provide comprehensive testing, imaging, and treatment options to help you feel your best.