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Understanding Thyroid Health: Symptoms, Causes, Types, and Treatments

By Dr. Saibal Chakravorty in Internal Medicine

Jan 18, 2025

The thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolism, energy production, and hormonal balance. An improperly functioning thyroid can give rise to a range of health concerns. Understanding thyroid health is vital to ensuring overall well-being.

Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders can present a wide range of symptoms, depending on whether the gland is overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism). Common symptoms include:

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Hypothyroidism

  • Fatigue and lethargy
  • Weight gain despite no change in appetite
  • Dry skin and brittle hair
  • Sensitivity to cold
  • Depression and memory issues
  • Constipation

Hyperthyroidism

  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Weight loss despite increased appetite
  • Nervousness, anxiety, or irritability
  • Excessive sweating and heat intolerance
  • Tremors or shakiness
  • Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea

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Causes of Thyroid Disorders

Several factors can contribute to thyroid dysfunction, including:

  1. Autoimmune Conditions: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (causing hypothyroidism) and Graves’ disease (causing hyperthyroidism) are the most common autoimmune causes.
  2. Iodine Deficiency: Essential for thyroid hormone production, a lack of iodine can result in conditions like goiter or hypothyroidism.
  3. Genetic Factors: A family history of thyroid issues increases the risk of developing similar conditions.
  4. Medications: Some drugs, like lithium, may disrupt thyroid function and lead to hormonal imbalances.
  5. Radiation Exposure: Radiation therapy to the neck or radioactive iodine treatment can affect the gland.
  6. Nodules or Cancer: Thyroid nodules or cancer can disrupt normal hormone production.

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Types of Thyroid Disorders

  1. Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid produces insufficient hormones, leading to slowed metabolic functions.
  2. Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid gland producing excess hormones, speeding up bodily processes.
  3. Goiter: An enlarged thyroid gland, often due to iodine deficiency or hormonal imbalance.
  4. Thyroid Nodules: Lumps or growths in the thyroid, which can be benign or malignant.
  5. Thyroid Cancer: A malignant condition affecting the thyroid, requiring specialized treatment.
  6. Postpartum Thyroiditis: Temporary thyroid inflammation occurring after childbirth.

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Treatments for Thyroid Disorders

The effectiveness of treatment varies based on the specific condition and its severity.

For Hypothyroidism

  • Thyroid Hormone Replacement: Medications like levothyroxine replace deficient thyroid hormones, restoring normal levels.

For Hyperthyroidism

  • Anti-Thyroid Medications: Drugs such as methimazole reduce hormone production.
  • Radioactive Iodine Therapy: Destroys overactive thyroid cells.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, a partial or total thyroidectomy might be necessary.
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For Goiter and Nodules

  • Observation: Regular monitoring for benign nodules.
  • Surgical Removal: For large goiters or suspicious nodules.

For Thyroid Cancer

  • Surgery: Thyroidectomy to remove cancerous tissue.
  • Radioactive Iodine: To destroy remaining cancer cells post-surgery.
  • Targeted Therapy and Chemotherapy: For advanced cases.

Lifestyle and Management Tips

  • Healthy Diet: Include iodine-rich foods like seafood, eggs, and dairy.
  • Regular Exercise: Helps manage weight and boost metabolism.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can affect thyroid health.
  • Regular Check-Ups: Early detection through routine screening ensures timely treatment.

By

Dr. Saibal Chakravorty
Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine
Metro Hospital, Noida