The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck below the Adam's apple. The thyroid's job is to produce thyroid hormones that help regulate growth, development, metabolism, and other key bodily functions.
Thyroid disorders occur when the thyroid produces too much or too little of these essential hormones, causing widespread effects in the body.
Some common thyroid disorders include:
- Hypothyroidism - When the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, and more. It usually develops slowly over time.
- Hyperthyroidism - When the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms are opposite of hypothyroidism and include unintended weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremors, etc.
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis - The most common cause of hypothyroidism. It's an autoimmune disorder where antibodies attack the thyroid gland. This damages the gland and lowers hormone output over time.
- Graves' disease - The most common cause of hyperthyroidism, occurring when antibodies overstimulate the thyroid. Some symptoms may include anxiety, irritability, trouble sleeping, fatigue, fast heartbeat, weight loss etc.
How do you detect thyroid disorders? Usually a simple
TSH blood test can determine if your thyroid hormone production is normal, high or low. An abnormal TSH level indicates hypo or hyperthyroidism. Your doctor may order additional thyroid tests to pinpoint the underlying cause and guide treatment.
How are thyroid conditions treated? Treatment varies depending on the specific thyroid disorder and its severity. Main therapies include:
- Thyroid hormone replacement medications like levothyroxine to restore normal levels
- Anti-thyroid medications to decrease thyroid hormone production for hyperthyroidism
- Radioactive iodine treatment and surgery in some cases
The good news about thyroid problems is that most of them can be managed very effectively once properly diagnosed! With proper treatment tailored to your specific thyroid disorder and symptoms, most people are able to get their thyroid function back to normal levels and feel relief from troublesome symptoms. The key is consulting an
endocrinologist specializing in thyroid health at a reputable clinic like Harmonize Health.