What is thyroid disorder?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck that has a huge impact on your overall health. This gland is responsible for producing thyroid hormones that regulate your metabolism. When the thyroid produces too many or too few hormones, it can lead to a thyroid disorder.
Some of the most common thyroid disorders include:
- Hypothyroidism - This is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, weight gain, hair loss, and feeling cold. Hypothyroidism affects around 5% of people.
- Hyperthyroidism - This is when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms include anxiety, tremors, unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and more frequent bowel movements. About 1% of people have hyperthyroidism.
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis - This is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. It usually leads to an underactive thyroid.
- Graves' disease - This is also an autoimmune disorder, but it results in an overactive thyroid gland.
Some major causes of thyroid disorders include:
- Iodine deficiency - Consuming too little iodine can impair thyroid function and lead to hypothyroidism. Many countries add iodine to table salt to prevent this.
- Autoimmune disease - Diseases like Hashimoto's and Graves' occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid. They often run in families.
- Thyroid nodules - Lumps or tumors on the thyroid can start producing excess thyroid hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism.
- Radiation exposure - Radiation treatments for cancers in the head or neck area can damage the thyroid.
- Medications - Drugs like amiodarone and lithium may affect thyroid function.
Thyroid disorders are often treated by an endocrinologist. Common treatments include thyroid hormones to restore normal levels, medications to reduce thyroid hormone production, radioactive iodine, and surgery.
If you suspect you may have a thyroid issue based on symptoms, I would recommend getting a thyroid function blood test and booking a consultation with a specialist like those at Hormone Harmony Clinic. Their expert endocrinologists can run comprehensive tests, provide an accurate diagnosis, and work with you to develop a tailored treatment plan involving medications, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring. With the right care, most thyroid issues can be managed effectively! Reach out to them today to take control of your thyroid health.