Thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland present at the base of the neck below the Adam’s Apple. It is a part of the endocrine system which releases hormones and regulates the body’s metabolism. Disorders can arise when the thyroid gland secretes too much hormones (hyperthyroidism) or low amount of hormones (hypothyroidism). Some common disorders include Hashimoto’s disease, Graves’ disease, goiter, and thyroid nodules.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism refers to a condition where the thyroid gland is too overactive and produces excess hormones. Hyperthyroidism affects 1% of women and is less commonly seen in men. Graves’ diseases are generally linked to hyperthyroidism and affects over 70% people with overactive thyroid glands. The presence of nodules on the thyroid gland is known as multinodular goiter or toxic nodular goiter. This can also be the cause of hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is linked to symptoms like nervousness and restlessness with a racing heart and irritability. This can lead to shaking, profuse sweating, anxiety, troubles with falling and staying asleep. External symptoms include thinner skin, brittle nails and hair, weight loss and bulging eyes (characteristics of Graves’ disease).
Hypothyroidism
The polar opposite of hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism is caused by an underactive thyroid gland. The condition is generally linked to Hashimoto’s disease. It is also a side effect of any surgeries that remove the thyroid gland. The condition is also caused by any damage to the thyroid gland from radiation. Cases of hypothyroidism are generally mild and characterized by certain symptoms. These include fatigue, weakness and feeling excessively cold, dry skin conditions, memory issues, depression and constipation. It is also characterized by weight gain and slow heart rates.
Hashimoto’s disease
Hashimoto’s disease or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis is one of the most common causes of hypothyroidism. It can occur at all ages, but the age group most at risk is middle-aged women. The disease is caused when your body’s immune system attacks. The disease destroys the thyroid gland and the ability of the gland to secrete hormones. Mild cases don’t have many discernible symptoms and can remain stable for multiple years with subtle symptoms. They also produce symptoms that mimic other diseases and symptoms.
Graves’ disease
Graves’ disease is the most common cause leading to hyperthyroidism in the US and affects one in 200 people. The autoimmune disorder occurs with the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland. This can lead to an overproduction of hormones responsible for the regular functioning of the body’s metabolism. The disease is generally hereditary and expresses itself at the ages of 20-30. Smoking, stress and pregnancy also increase risks.
Goiter
A noncancerous enlargement in the thyroid gland is also known as goiter. The most common cause of goiter across the world is a deficiency of iodine in the diet. Goiter is also caused by hyperthyroidism and is also a symptom of the same. Goiter is more common in women over the age of 40. Risk factors include a diet lacking in iodine, the medical history of the family, using certain medicines, exposure to radiation and pregnancy. Goiter can cause symptoms based on the size:
• Coughing
• Difficulty swallowing/breathing
• Hoarse voice
• Tightness and swelling in the neck
Thyroid nodules
These are small growths on the thyroid gland and are often externally invisible. The common causes include Hashimoto’s diseases and iodine deficiency and can be solid or filled with fluid. They are generally benign but can be cancerous in some cases. If they grow large, they can cause symptoms associated with goiter. The nodules can also cause symptoms mimicking hyperthyroidism if they secrete hormones. They can also cause symptoms of hypothyroidism if it is linked to Hashimoto’s disease.
Thyroid cancer
Thyroid cancer develops when cells change or mutate. The abnormal cells begin multiplying in your thyroid and, once there are enough of them, they form a tumor. If it’s caught early, thyroid cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer. The incidence of thyroid cancer has increased over the past 30 years. The incidence of thyroid cancer continues to increase in all races and ethnicities. Females are more likely to have thyroid cancer at a ratio of 3:1 and can occur in any age group, although it is most common after age 30, and its aggressiveness increases significantly in older patients. Approximately 1.2 percent of all men and women will be diagnosed with thyroid cancer during the course of their lifetime.
