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 and metabolism.
Thyroid disorders occur when the thyroid produces too much or too little of these essential hormones. Some common thyroid disorders include:
- Hypothyroidism - When the thyroid does not produce enough hormones. This causes metabolism to slow down. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, sensitivity to cold, and more.
- Hyperthyroidism - When too much thyroid hormone circulates in the bloodstream. This speeds up metabolism. Symptoms include unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremors, nervousness, and more.
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis - An autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. This causes inflammation and damage that reduces the thyroid's ability to produce hormones.
- Graves' disease - An autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism. The immune system produces antibodies that overstimulate the thyroid.
- Goiter - Enlargement of the thyroid gland that forms a visible lump in the neck. Can be caused by iodine deficiency or thyroid disorders.
- Thyroid nodules - Lumps that form within the thyroid. Most are noncancerous (benign), but some can be cancerous.
- Thyroid cancer - Cancerous nodules or tumors that form in the tissues of the thyroid gland.
What causes thyroid problems? Some thyroid disorders are triggered by the immune system mistakenly attacking the thyroid. But often the exact cause is unknown. Risk factors include family history, radiation exposure, pregnancy, stress, and more.
Who is at risk? Thyroid disorders affect people of all ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds. But women - especially those over 60 or with a family history - have a higher risk of developing thyroid issues.
How are thyroid disorders diagnosed? Diagnosing thyroid problems begins with a physical exam of the thyroid gland, followed by blood tests that check
TSH, T3 and T4 hormone levels. Imaging tests like ultrasounds or thyroid scans are sometimes used.
How are thyroid conditions treated? Treatment depends on the specific thyroid disorder and its severity, but may include
thyroid hormone replacement with synthetic hormones, medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or thyroid surgery. Catching and managing thyroid problems early is key.
I hope this overview on thyroid disorders gives you a helpful understanding of this common endocrine system problem! For more information, you can visit the Revival Clinic.