Thyroid disorders are among the most common medical conditions, affecting nearly 20 million Americans. The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck that secretes hormones to regulate growth and metabolism.
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and feeling cold. It is most often caused by Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune disorder causing inflammation and damage to the thyroid. Hyperthyroidism is the opposite - overproduction of thyroid hormones, causing symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, nervousness and irritability. Graves' disease, another autoimmune disorder, is the most common cause.
Some key points about thyroid disorders:
- They are more common in women, especially over age 50.
- Family history can increase risk.
- Both hypo and hyperthyroidism have overlapping symptoms, so blood tests of TSH, T4, T3 are needed to confirm.
- Mild cases can be managed with lifestyle changes, more severe cases require thyroid medication or radioiodine therapy.
Some key questions people have about thyroid issues:
What causes thyroid disorders?
The most common causes are autoimmune diseases like Graves' and Hashimoto's attacking the thyroid, radiation exposure, medications, nutritional deficiencies, pregnancy, and family history.
What are the first signs of a thyroid problem?
Look out for persistent fatigue, sudden weight changes up or down, feeling cold, hair loss, muscle weakness, mood changes like depression or irritability. Pay attention to your body.
How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?
After a physical exam, simple
blood tests measure levels of
TSH, T4 and T3 thyroid hormones. Based on results and symptoms, your doctor can tell if values are too low (hypothyroidism) or too high (hyperthyroid).
I hope this overview on thyroid disorders has been helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions. Wishing you good thyroid health on your journey.