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Thyroid Disorders

what is Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders refer to medical conditions that affect the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. This gland plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolism, energy production, and hormonal balance by producing thyroid hormones — primarily T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). Common thyroid disorders include hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer.

Symptoms can vary widely depending on the condition, ranging from fatigue, weight changes, hair thinning, and depression to anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and heat intolerance. Thyroid issues can be diagnosed through blood tests, imaging, and sometimes biopsy, and treatment may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery depending on the severity and type of disorder. Early detection and proper management are essential to maintain overall health and well-being.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Unexplained weight gain

  • Cold sensitivity

  • Dry skin and hair

  • Hair thinning or hair loss

  • Depression or low mood

  • Slow heart rate

  • Constipation

  • Memory problems or difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”)

  • Puffy face

  • Hoarseness

  • Menstrual irregularities

  • Swelling in the thyroid gland (goiter)

Types of Thyroid Disorders

  • Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
    The thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, slowing down body functions.
    Common cause: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune disease).

  • Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
    The thyroid produces too much hormone, speeding up metabolism.
    Common cause: Graves’ disease (autoimmune), thyroid nodules.

  • Goiter
    An abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, often due to iodine deficiency or hormonal imbalance.

  • Thyroid Nodules
    Lumps or abnormal growths in the thyroid gland. Most are benign but some can be cancerous.

  • Thyroiditis
    Inflammation of the thyroid, often caused by autoimmune diseases, infections, or after childbirth (postpartum thyroiditis).

  • Thyroid Cancer
    Malignant tumors in the thyroid gland. Usually detected as a lump or nodule, and confirmed by biopsy.

Treatment Procedures

  • Medication

    • Hypothyroidism: Levothyroxine (synthetic thyroid hormone).

    • Hyperthyroidism: Antithyroid drugs (like methimazole) and beta-blockers for symptom relief.

  • Radioactive Iodine Therapy — used to shrink or destroy overactive thyroid tissue (commonly for hyperthyroidism or nodules).

  • Surgery (Thyroidectomy) — partial or total removal of the thyroid, usually in cases of large goiters, cancer, or severe hyperthyroidism.

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy — after surgery or radioactive iodine, lifelong hormone pills are often needed.

Diagnosis Procedures

  • Blood Tests — to check levels of TSH, T3, and T4 hormones.

  • Ultrasound — to visualize the structure of the thyroid gland and detect nodules or enlargement.

  • Thyroid Scan & Uptake Test — uses a small amount of radioactive iodine to assess thyroid function and detect abnormalities.

  • Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy — a sample is taken from a thyroid nodule to check for cancer or infection.

  • Physical Examination — the doctor checks for swelling, nodules, or tenderness.

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