The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the lower front of the neck in front of the windpipe below Adam's apple. The gland secretes several hormones that collectively influence the body's metabolism, temperature, growth, and development. Currently, it is estimated that around 42 million people in India suffers from thyroid disorders, which predominantly include women.
TYPES OF THYROID DISORDERS
1. HYPERTHYROIDISM
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much of the hormone. The noticeable symptoms of the condition are irritability, fatigue, increased heartbeat, sweating, and weight loss. Graves' disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It is a disease condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland.
2. HYPOTHYROIDISM
Hypothyroidism is the opposite of hyperthyroidism. It is a condition in which the thyroid does not make enough hormones. Too little production of thyroid hormones leads to symptoms like fatigue, constipation, depression, slow heartbeat,and weight gain. Hypothyroidism is often caused by Hashimoto's disease.
3. GOITER
A goiter is an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck or upper chest. The most common cause of goiter is iodine deficiency in the diet. The symptoms of the goiter are usually not seen until it’s severe. The severe goiter symptoms include swelling in the neck, difficulty in breathing and swallowing, and hoarseness of the voice.
4. THYROID NODULES
Thyroid nodules are any abnormal growth that forms a lump on the thyroid gland. They can occur in any part of the gland and can be felt easily if compared to other disorders. The causes of the nodules aren't always known but can include iodine deficiency. The symptoms of the thyroid nodules are similar to hyperthyroidism as they produce high levels of hormones.
5. THYROID CANCER
Thyroid cancer is a condition characterized by the formation of cancer cells from the tissues of the gland. Thyroid cancer has a few noticeable symptoms including a lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, swollen glands, and hoarse voice.
The above disorders can be effectively diagnosed and treated through consultation with the help of an experienced doctor. Usually, the doctor takes into consideration the noticeable signs, symptoms, and more critically, the blood tests in diagnosing the disease. The common thyroid blood tests suggested by the doctor include T3, T4, TSH, and thyroid antibodies testing. The doctor might suggest treatment options like surgery and medication based on the type of disorder.
Prevent complications from the thyroid disorders by getting diagnosed right away at Dr. Shailesh Pandey's AUM ENT Clinic. Book an appointment now.
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Blog reviewed by: Dr Shailesh Pandey
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