Thyroid disorder - Balance Clinic

What is a thyroid disorder?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that produces hormones to regulate metabolism. Thyroid disorders occur when the thyroid produces too little or too many hormones, causing a wide range of health problems.

Some key facts about thyroid disorders:

• They are more common in women, people over 60, and those with a family history
• An estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease
• Symptoms can include weight changes, fatigue, temperature sensitivity, and more

There are three main types of thyroid disorders:

Hypothyroidism

This condition develops when the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones. As metabolism slows down, symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Feeling cold
• Muscle weakness
• Dry skin and hair

Hypothyroidism is usually treated with a synthetic thyroid hormone medication to replace missing hormones and regulate metabolism. If left untreated, it can lead to obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease.

Hyperthyroidism

In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid is overactive and produces excess hormones. Typical symptoms are:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Rapid heartbeat
• Intolerance to heat
• Nervousness or irritability
• Muscle weakness

Hyperthyroidism may be treated with medication, radioiodine therapy, or thyroid surgery. If untreated, excess thyroid hormones can cause life-threatening complications.

Thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer

Many people develop harmless nodules or lumps on their thyroid, but some may be cancerous. Risk factors for thyroid cancer include:

• Family history of thyroid cancer
• Radiation exposure
• Being female

As with other forms of cancer, early detection leads to better outcomes. Thyroid cancer treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone treatment, or chemotherapy.

In summary, thyroid disorders result from too much or too little thyroid hormone production. Symptoms depend on the type of disorder but may include appetite, weight, energy level, body temperature, heart rate, and mood changes. Staying aware of thyroid disorder risk factors and symptoms allows for earlier diagnosis and treatment. Maintaining thyroid health is important for regulating metabolism and preventing dangerous complications.

I hope this overview on thyroid disorders was helpful! Visit Balance Clinic for more information and professional medical advice.