The thyroid is an endocrine gland located in the neck. It is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism. A thyroid imbalance is indicative of either an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, or a thyroid that is not active enough, known as hypothyroidism. Left untreated, both thyroid conditions pose serious health risks.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, upsets the balance of hormones in the body. According to MayoClinic.com, hypothyroidism causes obesity, joint pain, infertility, and heart disease. While symptoms of an under-active thyroid depend on the degree of hormone imbalance, it is common to experience fatigue, unexplained weight gain, a horse voice, muscle and joint pain and depression. Women, especially those older than the age of 50, are most likely to suffer from hypothyroidism. Autoimmune disease, radiation therapy and reactions to certain medications such as lithium, have been shown to cause hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosed with a blood test to determine TSH levels, an underactive thyroid is treated with orally administered synthetic thyroid hormones, such as synthroid, to restore hormones to a normal level. It is common to feel better within two weeks of starting treatment. Since the body quickly adapts to synthetic thyroid hormones, treatment is life long and must be monitored on a regular basis. Typically, an endocrinologist will check TSH levels annually, adjusting medication as needed.
Hyperthyroid
A hyperactive thyroid produces excess amounts of the hormone thyroxine. When this occurs it is common to experience weight loss, a rapid heart rate, excess sweating, nervousness and irritability. Symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism include increased appetite, tremors, increases sensitivity to heat and cold, and difficulty sleeping. Hypothyroidism runs in families and is more likely to affect women then men. Left untreated, an overactive thyroid can lead to heart problems, osteoporosis and vision problems.
Hyperthyroidism Diagnosis and Treatment
Doctors will diagnose hypothyroidism with the same TSH blood test used to diagnose hyperthyroidism. Once identified, further tests and scans of the thyroid to determine why the thyroid is overactive should be conducted. Treatment for hyperthyroidism may include radioactive iodine to shrink the thyroid, and anti-thyroid medication to prevent excess hormone production. In rare cases, surgery to remove the thyroid may be necessary.
Thyroid Cancer
Symptoms of both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism may indicate a more serious condition, such as thyroid cancer. Occasionally growths, or nodules, appear on the thyroid; these nodules are either benign or malignant. Malignant nodules are cancerous and can spread to the lymph nodes, making the condition life-threatening. According to the American Cancer Society, the most common type of thyroid cancer is papillary carcinoma, accounting for 80 percent of all thyroid cancer. Papillary carcinoma grows slowly, can be successfully treated with surgery, and is rarely fatal.
