Thyroid, located right below the Adam’s apple in the neck, is a butterfly-shaped gland that is a prestige part of the complex network of glands named as endocrine system. While the endocrine system is accountable for synchronizing multiple body’s activities, the sole function of the thyroid gland is to release the thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormones regulate the complete metabolism process of the body, and hence a disturbance in it can give birth to numerous severe ailments.
If you intend to know the common disorders that are caused due to improper functioning of the thyroid gland then this article is definitely for you.
Hashimoto’s disease
Commonly known as hypothyroidism, it is a chronic ailment that can occur at any age. The ailment onsets when the immune system of the body destroys the thyroid gland, and hence, its ability to release thyroid hormone is completely tampered. People with mild case of hypothyroidism may not show obvious symptoms, but those with severe temperament may end exhibiting symptoms such as:
- Constipation
- Dry skin, thin hair
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Puffy, pale face
- Weight gain
- Intolerance to cold
- Unbalanced mensuration cycle (in females)
- Enlarged thyroid (goiter)
Grave’s Disease
Named after the doctor, who first revealed it, it is a common form of overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism. It is an autoimmune disorder that strikes when the immune system of the body attacks the thyroid gland, and hence, results in overproduction of thyroid hormone. With high level of thyroid within the blood stream, the body may show symptoms such as:
- Menstrual irregularities
- Muscle Weakness
- Intolerance to heat
- Excessive sweating
- Fatigue
- Bulging eyes and improper vision
- Frequent bowl movements or even diarrhea
- Hand tremors
- Irregular heartbeat
Goiter
A noncancerous result of the thyroid gland, goiter is common worldwide and is considered mainly an outcome of iodine deficiency within the body. Goiter can affect at any age, but is common in people above 40. Medical history, pregnancy, radiation exposure, and usage of certain medication are the major risk factors of this illness. Mild goiter cases may not reveal any symptoms, while complex goiter cases may show up with following symptoms:
- Tightness/swelling in the neck
- Wheezing or coughing
- Hoarseness of voice
- Difficulty in breathing and/or swallowing food
Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid disorder can also lead to another acute ailment known as Thyroid Nodules. The nodules are the growth form in or on in the thyroid gland. The primary cause for this illness is however not known, but it is witnessed that it can be cancerous in nature in small fraction of cases. The risks associated with thyroid nodules may increase with age. Thyroid nodules does not unveil any symptoms, but if they grow large enough then they can lead to symptoms such as:
- Tremors
- Clammy skin
- Increased appetite
- High pulse rate
- Nervousness
- Weight loss
- Swelling in neck
- Problem in swallowing and breathing
- High level of pain
Each thyroid disorder is different, and hence, the treatment options for each also differs. To make sure that you do not meet any major side effect, it is essential to visit a specialist, go for proper diagnosis and stick to the treatment.