The 5 Faces Of Thyroid Disease: What You Need To Know

The thyroid gland is a collection of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream. It also regulates several metabolic processes, including growth and energy. Almost one in twenty people experience thyroid conditions, so staying informed about various situations is vital.

What you need to know:

What is the thyroid gland?
Types of thyroid disease: A spectrum of conditions
World thyroid day: Raising awareness for global health

What is the thyroid gland?

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The thyroid gland is crucial for producing hormones that manage our metabolism, growth, and other body functions. It adjusts hormone levels based on certain factors such as growth or weather. The thyroid gland is also a component of the endocrine system, and thyroid diseases occur when the gland produces either an excess or an insufficient amount of these crucial hormones.

Types of thyroid disease: A spectrum of conditions

Here are some common types of thyroid disease that you might experience:

Hyperthyroidism: When the thyroid overworks

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormone. When it overproduces these hormones, the body’s metabolic rate accelerates significantly. This condition requires medical diagnosis and management, which can dramatically impact your quality of life.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism

Here are some common symptoms of hyperthyroidism that one can experience:

Sudden weight loss
Irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia
Heart palpitations
Increased satiety
Tremors in fingers
Anxiety and depression
Sweating
Changes in the menstrual cycle
Changes in bowel movements
Tiredness
Sleep problems
Muscle weakness
Brittle hair
Warm skin

Hypothyroidism: The underactive thyroid

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormones for energy production. This deficiency results in reduced energy levels. Factors leading to hypothyroidism include:

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: A condition where the body attacks thyroid tissue, stopping average hormone production.
Postpartum thyroiditis: Occurs after childbirth, miscarriage, or abortion, temporarily affecting 5% to 9% of cases.
Iodine deficiency: The thyroid gland needs iodine to make hormones, and its deficiency impacts millions globally.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

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Here are some common symptoms of hypothyroidism that one can experience:

Constipation and digestive issues
Dry skin
Sudden weight gain
Hoarse voice
Coarse hair
Muscle pain and aches with stiffness
Irregular menstrual cycles
Depression
Memory problems
Fatigue
Slow heart rate or bradycardia
Puffy face
Stunted growth

Goiter: A visible enlargement of the thyroid

Goiter refers to an irregular enlargement of the thyroid gland at the front of the neck. It can be associated with hypo- and hyperthyroidism, but it can also occur in people with normal thyroid function. Factors contributing to goiter formation include iodine deficiency and autoimmune conditions.

Thyroid nodules: Lumps requiring evaluation

Thyroid nodules have abnormal growths within the thyroid gland that often require a medical evaluation to determine their nature. While most bumps or nodules are benign, some can also be cancerous.

Thyroid cancer: A less common but serious condition

Although less common compared to other thyroid conditions, thyroid cancer is a severe health issue. It arises when malignant cells form in the tissues of the thyroid gland. It can be treated easily when diagnosed early. Treatment options usually involve removing the cancerous tissue or the whole thyroid gland through a surgery known as thyroidectomy.

World Thyroid Day: Raising awareness for global health

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World Thyroid Day is observed on the 25th of May to shed light on various thyroid diseases and be aware of the symptoms. Diseases arising from the complications of thyroid glands are among the most common disorders worldwide, second only to diabetes.

Thyroid complications can be severe and life-threatening. If you are experiencing the symptoms discussed above, contact a medical practitioner immediately.

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