THYROID DISORDER - dranamikagora.com

What Is Thyroid Disease?

Your thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating numerous metabolic processes by producing hormones. Part of the endocrine system, thyroid disease occurs when the gland produces either excessive or insufficient hormones.

Thyroid disorders vary from harmless enlarged glands (goiters) to potentially life-threatening cancers. The most prevalent issues involve abnormal thyroid hormone production: hyperthyroidism (excessive hormone) and hypothyroidism (inadequate hormone). While these conditions can cause discomfort, most can be effectively managed with accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Thyroid Disease Types and Causes

There are two primary types of thyroid disease: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Both conditions can result from other diseases affecting the function of the thyroid gland.

Hyperthyroidism vs. hypothyroidism

Hyperthyroidism results from an excessive production of thyroid hormones, manifesting in various ways:

Graves’ disease: Overproduction of thyroid hormone.
Toxic adenomas: Nodules in the thyroid that disrupt chemical balance by producing thyroid hormones. Some goiters may have multiple nodules.
Subacute thyroiditis: Thyroid inflammation causing hormone “leakage,” leading to temporary hyperthyroidism lasting weeks to months.
Pituitary gland malfunctions or thyroid gland cancerous growths: Rarely, these conditions can trigger hyperthyroidism.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism arises from insufficient thyroid hormone production, leading to decreased energy levels due to the body’s energy requirements. Causes of hypothyroidism include:

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: An autoimmune disorder where the body attacks thyroid tissue, causing it to cease hormone production.
Postpartum thyroiditis: Occurs within a year after childbirth, miscarriage, or abortion, affecting 5% to 9% of cases and usually temporary.
Iodine deficiency: Lack of iodine, essential for thyroid hormone synthesis, affecting millions globally.
Thyroid gland removal: Surgically or chemically eliminated.
Excessive iodine exposure: Resulting from medications like amiodarone or contrast dyes.
Previous thyroid issues: Increased risk if you’ve had thyroid problems before.
Lithium: Linked to hypothyroidism as a medication side effect.