Thyroid Disorders

What are thyroid disorders?

Thyroid disorders can range from a small goiter, which needs no treatment, to cancer. The most common thyroid disorders involve abnormal production of thyroid hormones.

• Too much thyroid hormone results in a condition known as hyperthyroidism.
• Insufficient hormone production leads to hypthyroidism.

What is hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that develops when your thyroid hormone levels are high. Thyroid hormones help control body temperature, heart rate, growth, and weight.

What causes hyperthyroidism?

If you have a family member with hyperthyroidism, your risk is increased. Any of the following can cause hyperthyroidism:

• Autoimmune disease, such as Graves disease or Plummer disease.
• Certain medicines, such as lithium, amiodarone, or aspirin.
• Viral infection.
• Thyroid inflammation or thyroid cancer.
• High iodine levels.

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition that develops when the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormones help control body temperature, heart rate, growth, and weight.

What causes hypothyroidism?

If you have a family member with hypothyroidism, your risk is increased. Any of the following can cause hypothyroidism:

• Autoimmune disease, such as inflammation of your thyroid, or Hashimoto disease.
• Surgery, radiation therapy, or medicines such as lithium, sedatives, or narcotics.
• Thyroid cancer or viral infection.
• Low iodine levels.

What are the signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism?

The signs and symptoms may develop slowly, sometimes over several years. Symptoms can include:

• Weight loss, increased appetite, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Increased sweating and heat intolerance.
• Nervousness, restlessness, tremors, and difficulty sleeping.
• Fast heart rate and fast breathing, even at rest.
• Painful lump in your neck or bulging eyes.
• Fatigue and muscle weakness.
• Decreased or absent monthly periods.

What are the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism?

The signs and symptoms may develop slowly, sometimes over several years. Symptoms can include:

• Exhaustion.
• Sensitivity to cold.
• Headaches or decreased concentration.
• Muscle aches or weakness.
• Constipation.
• Dry, flaky skin or brittle nails.
• Thinning hair.
• Heavy or irregular monthly periods.
• Depression or irritability.

How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and what medicines you take. He or she will ask about your medical history and if anyone in your family has hypothyroidism. A blood test will show your thyroid hormone level.

How are thyroid disorders treated? 

For thyroid disorders resulting from the over or under production of thyroid hormones, both conventional and alternative treatments try to restore hormone levels to the proper balance.

• Conventional treatments rely mainly on drugs and surgery.
• Alternative treatments attempt to relieve some of the discomfort associated with thyroid disorders, or to improve the function of the thyroid through diet supplements, herbal remedies, lifestyle changes and other exercises. Always consult your provider before starting any treatment plan.

You may not need any treatment if you do not have symptoms. Your healthcare provider may monitor your condition through regular visits and blood tests. You may need medicines to control the amount of parathyroid hormone (PTH) your parathyroid glands make. You may also need medicine to keep your bones strong. Surgery may be done to remove an adenoma or your parathyroid glands.

When should I seek immediate care?

• You heart beats faster or slower than normal, or it feels like fluttering in your chest.
• You have nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
• You cannot think clearly.

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

• You have bone and joint pain.
• You have increased thirst or you are urinating more often than usual.
• You have a loss of appetite.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.