The Thyroid is an endocrine gland located just below the Adam\’s apple. This gland uses iodine to produce hormones that regulate the activity of every single cell found in the body. The primary function of the thyroid is to regulate the body\’s metabolism.
The two most common diseases associated with the thyroid are Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism. As suggested in the name, they are the exact opposite of each other. These diseases create an imbalance in your body that can interfere with its functions. Having a lack of the hormone produced by the thyroid produces hypothyroidism and an excess of the hormone will create hyperthyroidism. Usually these conditions develop slowly over a period of months, so if you suspect you are at risk, it is a good idea to see your doctor as soon as possible before they have the opportunity to worsen.
When the thyroid dysfunctions and produces too little hormones, this is called hypothyroidism. The symptoms include fatigue, hair loss, constipation, depression, irritability, sudden weight gain, intolerance to cold, and memory loss, among others. One of the reasons this condition is difficult to diagnose or misdiagnosed is that a person may have any one, many or none of these symptoms. Millions may be living with this disease, unknown to them.
This condition is not life threatening except in rare cases where it has been left untreated for long periods of time. Usually diagnosed with a blood test, it can be treated by taking a simple pill daily.
Hyperthyroidism occurs when too much hormone is produced; the thyroid is overactive. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism occur gradually and may continue on for weeks or months before a patient realizes that there is a problem. Common signs and symptoms include heat intolerance, hair loss, muscle weakness, trembling hands, fatigue, insomnia, and breathlessness.
Every year 350, 000 people are known to develop this disease, and it is found in more often in women than in men. Radioactive iodine is often used as a treatment for hyperthyroidism. In more severe conditions, part or all of the thyroid is removed. In this case, a patient must remain on medication for the rest of their life to replace the hormones that the thyroid produced. Usually with the use of medication the symptoms will disappear and a person can go on living a completely normal life, although they will need to undergo blood testing a few times a year to ensure that the medication is doing its job.
You may be surprised to know that in some cases thyroid problems may be caused simply by a lack or iodine. Your body may also be shutting off the supply of iodine due to other medications that are taken. One easily spotted symptom of thyroid issues is called Goiter. This is a condition when the thyroid becomes swollen and can be seen as a small lump underneath your Adam\’s apple.
If you suspect thyroid problems, the person for you to consult would be an Endocrinologist. They are experts when it comes to the thyroid. They can help you quickly pinpoint the problem and resolve it so that soon you can be well on your way to feeling healthy and normal again.
Would you like to learn more about thyroid gland and diet? Read other articles at thyroid disease guide
