What is the thyroid gland?
Your thyroid is a small gland shaped like a butterfly that is found at the front of your neck and that helps all of your organs function. If your thyroid gland is not producing enough hormones or is producing too many hormones, it can affect many different parts of your body and cause a number of symptoms.
What is hypothyroidism?
If your body is not producing enough of the thyroid hormone, this is known as hypothyroidism. It is most commonly caused by a condition known as Hashimoto's disease, in which your immune system attacks the thyroid gland. The damage that results is what causes the gland to underproduce.
What are hypothyroid symptoms?
If you have low thyroid, you might feel tired and lack stamina. Weight gain and constipation can also be symptoms of hypothyroidism. An intolerance to cold, numbness in your hands and feet, muscle aches, poor concentration, poor short-term memory, dry skin, hair loss and depression or mood swings are also symptoms. If you have started missing periods or your periods are irregular, this could be a symptom as well.
What is hyperthyroidism?
When you have hyperthyroidism, your body is producing too much thyroid. This can cause your metabolism, your heart rate and other bodily functions to increase. Hyperthyroidism is usually caused by Graves' disease, an immune system disorder.
What are hyperthyroid symptoms?
Hyperthyroidism symptoms may appear so gradually that it can be some time before you start to notice them. You may start losing weight even though you have not changed your diet, or you might even be eating more than usual. A rapid heartbeat, anxiety, irritability, and insomnia are also symptoms. You might often feel sweaty and overheated, and your fingers and hands may shake. Some people have eye changes, such as bulging or irritation. Hyperthyroidism can also cause weak muscles and brittle bones.
How are thyroid problems diagnosed?
The first sign of thyroid issues might be certain symptoms, such as fatigue, cold intolerance, or unexplained weight gain or loss. However, like the symptoms associated with other hormone-related imbalances, symptoms of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can indicate other conditions. At HerKare, in addition to assessing your symptoms, we will test your blood to determine whether you have thyroid problems.
How are thyroid problems treated?
Our approach to treating hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism varies according to its cause and your general health, but most cases can be treated with medication. Lifestyle changes can also help to keep your thyroid in balance.