UNDERSTANDING VARIOUS THYROID ​CONDITIONS

When the thyroid gland functions properly, it produces the right amount of hormones to maintain a stable metabolism. This balance is achieved through the feedback mechanisms between the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain, and the hypothalamus, situated above it. 

Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid gland doesn't produce and release enough T3 and T4 hormones into the bloodstream, resulting in a significant slowdown of metabolism. This condition brings about a variety of physical and emotional symptoms, such as lethargy, depression, fatigue, constipation, feeling cold (even on warm days), dry or thickened skin, difficulty concentrating, hair loss or thinning eyebrows, unusual weight gain, and facial puffiness. 

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland becomes overactive and releases excessive amounts of T3 and T4 hormones into the bloodstream. This results in a continually heightened metabolism. Individuals experiencing this condition may notice symptoms such as weight loss (despite an increased appetite), rapid pulse, nervousness, hand tremors, agitation and anxiety, excessive sweating and heat sensitivity, fatigue, and diarrhea. 

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is a condition known as Graves' Disease. It falls under the category of autoimmune disorders, where the body's antibodies mistakenly attack its own organs. Graves' Disease predominantly affects women over the age of 20, although it can occur at any age and in men as well. Symptoms include anxiety, nervousness, fatigue, insomnia, breast enlargement (in men), menstrual irregularities (in women), difficulty concentrating, sweating and heat sensitivity, double vision, protruding eyeballs (exophthalmos), rapid or irregular heartbeat, restlessness, tremors, possible goiter, and frequent bowel movements. 

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder where the thyroid gland is attacked by various cell- and antibody-mediated immune processes. It was the first recognized autoimmune disease, first described by Japanese specialist Hakaru Hashimoto in Germany in 1912. Often leading to hypothyroidism with occasional bouts of hyperthyroidism, symptoms of Hashimoto's thyroiditis include weight gain, depression, mania, sensitivity to heat and cold, paresthesia, fatigue, panic attacks, memory loss, high cholesterol, constipation, migraines, muscle weakness, cramps, infertility, and hair loss. The thyroid gland may become firm, enlarged, and lobulated, although changes can also be nonpalpable. The enlargement is due to lymphocytic infiltration and fibrosis rather than tissue hypertrophy. Antibodies against thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and/or thyroglobulin gradually destroy the follicles in the thyroid gland. Consequently, the disease can be detected clinically by testing for these antibodies in the blood. 

This condition is the rarest and most dangerous form of thyroid disorder. Although uncommon, only 1-2% of patients with hyperthyroidism develop Thyroid Storm. During a Thyroid Storm, heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature can become uncontrollably high. If a Thyroid Storm is suspected, the patient must immediately go to the Emergency Room, as it is a life-threatening condition that can rapidly worsen and requires prompt treatment within hours to avoid fatal complications such as stroke or heart attack. Thyroid Storm is more common in the elderly. 

 Statistics indicate that over 25 million Americans have thyroid disease, with many unaware of their condition. A simple blood test can help your doctor determine if you're at risk for thyroid issues. Physical signs, such as swelling in the lower neck area, can also serve as warnings. You might be referred to an endocrinologist for further tests, like an ultrasound or biopsy. Don't delay—speak with your doctor today, as ignorance could be deadly. 

DISCLAIMER:  The information on this website is not intended to replace professional medical advice and care. No one on the team at the Thyroid Awareness Foundation has any medical education and does not seek to replace the expertise of a physician. Our goal is simply to inform the public about the thyroid's function and presence, and to promote thyroid health for you and your family.