The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It plays a crucial role in producing hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, energy production, and temperature regulation. Thyroid disorders involve disruptions in the production and release of these hormones. The two main types of thyroid disorders are hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
Hypothyroidism:
Causes:
- Autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s disease) is a common cause, where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.
- Iodine deficiency.
- Thyroid surgery or radiation treatment.
Symptoms:
- Fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, constipation, and depression.
Diagnosis:
- Blood tests measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (T4), and sometimes triiodothyronine (T3).
Treatment:
- Synthetic thyroid hormone (levothyroxine) to replace the deficient hormones.
Hyperthyroidism:
Causes:
- Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder where the immune system stimulates the thyroid to produce excess hormones.
- Thyroid nodules or goitre.
- Inflammation of the thyroid (thyroiditis).
Symptoms:
- Weight loss, increased appetite, heat intolerance, sweating, anxiety, and tremors.
Diagnosis:
- Blood tests measuring TSH, T4, and T3.
Treatment:
- Antithyroid medications (such as methimazole or propylthiouracil) to reduce hormone production.
- Radioactive iodine treatment to shrink or destroy the thyroid.
- Surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland.
Thyroid Nodules:
Causes:
- Most nodules are non-cancerous and may be caused by iodine deficiency, inflammation, or genetic factors.
- Some nodules can be cancerous.
Diagnosis:
- Ultrasound imaging, fine-needle aspiration biopsy for suspicious nodules.
Treatment:
- Observation for non-cancerous nodules.
- Surgery or radioactive iodine for cancerous nodules.
Thyroid Cancer:
Types:
- Papillary carcinoma, follicular carcinoma, medullary carcinoma, and anaplastic carcinoma.
Diagnosis:
- Biopsy, ultrasound, and sometimes radioactive iodine scans.
Treatment:
- Surgery to remove the thyroid gland, radioactive iodine therapy, and sometimes external beam radiation or chemotherapy.
Regular monitoring, proper diagnosis, and appropriate treatment are essential for managing thyroid disorders. Individuals experiencing symptoms or at risk of thyroid issues should consult healthcare professionals for thorough evaluation and personalised care.
