What is Thyroid Disease?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the throat. It is responsible for producing hormones that control many bodily functions, including metabolism, heart rate, weight and temperature. When something goes wrong with the thyroid, it’s called thyroid disease.
Types of Thyroid Disease
There are two main types of thyroid disease: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, depression, muscle pain and joint stiffness. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid produces too many hormones. Symptoms of this include anxiety, weight loss, rapid heart rate and sweating.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of thyroid disease vary depending on what type of thyroid disease is present. Common symptoms associated with hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, depression, muscle pain, joint stiffness, sleep disturbances and hair loss. Symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism include anxiety, weight loss, rapid heart rate, sweating, difficulty sleeping, intolerance to heat and bulging eyes. In addition, people with either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism may have an enlarged thyroid (a condition known as goiter).
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you think you may have a thyroid disorder, it’s important to see your doctor right away. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may order blood tests to diagnose the disorder. Treatment of thyroid disease depends on which type of thyroid disorder is present. For hypothyroidism, treatment usually involves taking thyroid hormones to replace those the thyroid isn’t producing. For hyperthyroidism, treatment may include taking anti-thyroid medications, undergoing radioactive iodine therapy or having surgery to remove the thyroid. People with either type of thyroid disorder should also manage their diet and lifestyle to reduce symptoms and improve health.
The thyroid is an important part of the body’s systems, and thyroid disease can have a big impact on your overall health. If you have any signs or symptoms that you think might be associated with thyroid disease, make an appointment with your doctor to get tested.