The thyroid gland is an important part of your body. It is butterfly-shaped and small. It is found at the front of your lower neck. It makes hormones that help control energy, growth, and development. When the thyroid does not work properly, it can lead to two common problems. These are hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). This blog explains these problems and how to manage them for better health.
What is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid does not make enough hormones. These hormones help control energy, body temperature, heart rate, and more. When there are not enough hormones, the body slows down.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Symptoms may appear slowly. They are also hard to notice at first. According to the American Thyroid Association (ATA), common symptoms include:
- Feeling colder than usual
- Feeling tired all the time
- Dry skin
- Constipation
- Mood changes, such as feeling sad
- Trouble remembering things
Hypothyroidism cannot be cured. But this disease can be treated. Without treatment, the Mayo Clinic states it may cause serious problems. These include an enlarged thyroid (goiter), heart issues, or trouble having children. Early care can help stop these issues.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
The most common cause is Hashimoto’s disease. This disease makes your immune system attack your thyroid. Other causes include:
- Damage from radiation treatments
- Certain medicines
- Low or high iodine levels
- Problems with the pituitary gland (a small gland in your brain)
What is Hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid makes too many hormones. This makes the body work faster than normal.
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) state that symptoms of hyperthyroidism can look different from person to person. They can also look different in older adults. It can be mistaken for dementia and mood changes. Common symptoms include:
- Weight loss or appetite changes
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Feeling anxious or having trouble sleeping
- Weak muscles or shaky hands
- Digestive issues
- Feeling too warm
Without treatment, hyperthyroidism can cause problems. It can cause heart disease, weak bones, or trouble having children.
Causes of Hyperthyroidism
Grave’s disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid and eyes. Other causes include:
- Overactive growths on the thyroid (thyroid nodules)
- Swelling or irritation of the thyroid (thyroiditis)
- Low or high iodine levels
- Certain medicines
- Pituitary gland problems
Diagnosing Thyroid Disorders
Doctors check for thyroid issues with blood tests. These tests measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and other important hormones. They may also use imaging tests, like an ultrasound or a thyroid scan. These tests look closely at the thyroid and can check for cancer.
Treatment Options
Thyroid problems cannot be cured. But there are treatment options. Treatments can help manage symptoms and improve your health.
Treatment for Hypothyroidism
- Thyroid Hormone Replacement: Synthetic hormones are used for this replacement therapy. It can restore and balance normal hormone levels.
- Radioactive Iodine Therapy: This shrinks the thyroid gland.
- Surgery: In some cases, part or all of the thyroid is removed.
Treatment for Hyperthyroidism
- Medicines: Certain drugs can lower hormone levels. They can also help symptoms.
- Radioactive Iodine Therapy: This helps shrink the thyroid. It also lessens hormone production.
- Surgery: If other treatments do not work, the thyroid may need to be removed.
Visit Clinicas
With modern treatments, you can manage thyroid problems and live a healthier life. At Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc., we are here to help. Our team provides check-ups, lab tests to support your thyroid health. If you think you have a thyroid problem, contact your Primary Care provider. Start your journey to better thyroid health today. A healthy thyroid means a healthier life.