Thyroid Problems
Thyroid hormones are made and produced by the thyroid gland. When your thyroid produces either too much or too little of these essential hormones, it’s known as a thyroid disorder. Hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroiditis, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are all types of thyroid illnesses.
What is the Thyroid and What Does it do?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck, just below your Adam’s apple. It consists of two side-by-side lobes connected by a narrow strip of tissue called the isthmus.
The thyroid’s main job is to make thyroid hormone. This important hormone helps the body regulate metabolism-the process that turns the food you eat into the energy your body needs. Thyroid hormone also helps control heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and how well the body uses carbohydrates and fats.
What are the Symptoms of a Thyroid Disease?
Symptoms of thyroid disease vary depending on the type of disorder. Hyperthyroidism may cause weight loss, increased heart rate and blood pressure, nervousness, sweating, and intolerance to heat. Hypothyroidism may cause weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, hair loss, intolerance to cold, and constipation.
Thyroiditis may cause pain in the throat, neck, or ears, swollen thyroid gland, fever, and fatigue. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common type of thyroiditis and it usually causes a gradual loss of function of the thyroid gland.
How is a Thyroid Disease Diagnosed?
A doctor will diagnose a thyroid disease by doing a physical exam and ordering blood tests. The blood tests will measure the level of thyroid hormone in your blood. If the levels are abnormal, your doctor may order other tests such as a thyroid scan or an ultrasound to help determine the cause of the disorder.
What is the Treatment for a Thyroid Disease?
The treatment for a thyroid disease depends on the type of disorder. Hyperthyroidism is treated with drugs that slow down the production of thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism is treated with drugs that replace the missing thyroid hormone. Thyroiditis is often treated with antibiotics if it’s caused by a bacterial infection. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is usually treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
If you have a thyroid disease, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Not following your treatment plan may make the disorder worse.
Thyroid Disease and Pregnancy
Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should talk to their doctor about their risk for thyroid disease. Thyroid disorders are common during pregnancy and can cause problems for both the mother and the baby.
Thyroid Disease and Your Diet
Eating a healthy diet is important for everyone, but it’s especially important if you have a thyroid disorder. People with hyperthyroidism may need to avoid foods that are high in iodine. People with hypothyroidism may need to eat more foods that contain iodine. Your doctor can help you create a diet plan that’s right for you.
Thyroid Disease With Diabetes
Thyroid disease can cause problems with blood sugar control. Hyperthyroidism may cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Hypothyroidism may cause high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). If you have diabetes and a thyroid disorder, it’s important to work closely with your doctor to manage both conditions.