The thyroid gland is one of the most important glands in the body as it controls metabolism and the supply of energy to the body. When the thyroid is in trouble it could mean only two things. There is an oversupply of the thyroid hormone or an under supply of it. Hyperthyroidism is a serious disease where the thyroid is oversupplying the body of thyroid hormones. Conversely, hypothyroidism happens when there is lack of the hormone. Either way it can cause a hormonal imbalance that can lead to physical changes and mental impact like serious bouts of stress and anxiety.
Hypothyroidism vs Hyperthyroidism
What is hypothyroidism?
When the thyroid is under-performing it means that there are fewer thyroid hormones to work within the entire body. The imbalance could lead to a lot of problems including the possibility of a slower metabolism. The symptoms may not be the same to all sufferers but it can include sudden weight gain due to the slower metabolism, not being able to tolerate cold temperatures, fatigue, puffy face, constipation relief and lower heart rate. It could also cause anxiety symptoms or worse depression.
What is hyperthyroidism?
The condition where there is a hyperactive thyroid is called hyperthyroidism. There are lots of thyroid hormones to use in the body. This means that the metabolism becomes faster. People that are suffering from hyperthyroidism have lower tolerance to hot temperatures, irritability, tremors, nervousness, rapid heartbeat, mood swings and even anxiety attacks. There is also a possibility of an enlarged thyroid which is commonly known as a goiter.
What are the risks?
Health complications can occur when there is an over or under production of the thyroid hormone. When there is an over production it can cause Grave’s disease, toxic adenomas, subacute thyroiditis, pituitary gland malfunction and even cancer. Under production of the thyroid hormone can lead to Hashimoto disease or even cancer. While cancer on thyroid gland can happen it is quite rare.
How can it be detected?
Blood work is the leading diagnostic tool used to detect problems on the thyroid gland. A TSH test should be done to find out the range of the thyroid hormone activity on the blood. A score below the normal range means the patient is suffering from hypothyroidism while a score that is above the normal range is said to indicate hyperthyroidism.
How can it be treated?
Depending on the health conditions, hypothyroidism can be easily treated though hormone replacement therapy. Most of the patients would have an improved condition within the week. Doctors would know how to deal with your problem if you are suffering from hyperthyroidism. Radioactive iodine and antithyroid medication may be used for hyperthyroidism. Surgery may be needed to correct the symptoms.
It is important that any kind of condition of the thyroid should be taken seriously. Thyroid health is important because it can cause a lot of problems when it is not functioning properly. Not only could it cause physical problems but hormonal imbalance as well which can also lead to mental problems like anxiety, depression and other problems.
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