Symptoms & Diagnosis
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism – how the body breaks down food into energy, and whether that energy is immediately used or stored for future use. Thyroid hormones tell organs how quickly to work, and regulate oxygen consumption and heat production. They affect virtually all the organs and systems in the body; as such, when the thyroid ceases to properly function, the consequences can be severe.
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is underactive and produces too little thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism can lead to a slowing down of bodily functions. The symptoms of this thyroid disease include fatigue, depression, weight gain, sluggishness or a lack of energy, and feeling cold. Hypothyroidism can be caused by Hashimoto’s disease, in which the immune system mistakenly produces antibodies that attack the thyroid gland, or by drugs or other conditions that affect the thyroid gland's function. Treatment for hypothyroidism includes hormone therapy to replace the thyroid hormone the body lacks.
Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, is a condition in which too much thyroid hormone is produced. Symptoms of this thyroid condition include muscle weakness, a rapid heartbeat, weight loss, irritability, vision problems, and infertility. Hyperthyroidism can be caused by thyroid nodules, or lumps on the thyroid gland. It can also be caused by Grave's disease, another immune system disorder. Treatment for hyperthyroidism can include anti-thyroid medications and beta-blockers.