THYROID CONDITIONS

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THYROID CONDITIONS

What are thyroid conditions?
The thyroid gland forms a vital part of the endocrine system. The thyroid gland is a tiny gland in the shape of a butterfly found beneath the neck in the middle of the throat.

A thyroid disorder occurs when the thyroid fails to secrete enough hormones, or too little of it needed for the body to thrive. So, your thyroid can become lax, in which case it cannot produce sufficient hormones, a disorder known as hypothyroidism, or the gland can release hormones in excess, a condition called hyperthyroidism.

What types of thyroid disorders exist?

  • Hyperthyroidism is characterised by the production of the thyroid hormone in excess. As a result, restlessness, nervousness, weight loss and muscle fatigue soon follow.
  • Hypothyroidism occurs due to an underperforming thyroid gland, leading to weight gain, depression, fatigue, constipation, and joint pain.
  • Graves’ disease is the main reason for hyperthyroidism that develops due to the body’s attack on itself as a result of an autoimmune disease.
  • Goitre leads to an enlarged thyroid gland. One of the main reasons for goitre is an iodine deficiency that you lack in your diet. Goitre leads to neck swelling, trouble breathing, wheezing, and voice hoarseness.
  • Fluid-filled or hard nodules can develop in the thyroid gland. These nodules can cause weight loss, sweaty skin, tremors and a rapid pulse rate.

How are thyroid conditions managed and treated?

Hormone replacement is a common treatment to restore your hormone levels to what they were before. A thyroidectomy is a surgery to remove a cancerous thyroid gland that can compromise the health of surrounding tissue. If cancer has already metastasised, the neck’s lymph glands will have to be removed as well.

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Thyroid hormone production can be discontinued by radioactive iodine treatment, anti-thyroid medication or, in severe cases, surgery. If you are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, Dr Noeth will place you on hormone replacement therapy so that your body makes up for the lost hormones.

FAQ

1What are the complications of hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism causes joint pain, obesity, heart disease and infertility when left untreated.
2Can thyroid disease turn cancerous?
While most thyroid nodules are non-cancerous, some are classified as malignant. These nodules can produce too much of the thyroid hormone and, as a result, lead to hyperthyroidism.
3Is hyperthyroidism a serious health concern?
The condition can become serious if you do not treat it in time. Untreated hyperthyroidism can lead to arrhythmia, blood clots, stroke and a heart attack.
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