Thyroid gland, which is located in the neck region below the Adam’s apple, it is responsible for the secretion of hormones – thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones help in protein synthesis in body cells. Also, the controlled release of these hormones is linked with the metabolism of the body.
There is a gland called as Pituitary gland, which is located inside the brain and it regulates the synthesis of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Pituitary gland is responsible for monitoring the secretions of Thyroid gland. The production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is stopped when there is a high concentration of thyroid hormone in the body, this in turn checks the production of T3 and T4 hormones. Diseases occur when the activity of the thyroid gland is affected.
There is a gland called as Pituitary gland, which is located inside the brain and it regulates the synthesis of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Pituitary gland is responsible for monitoring the secretions of Thyroid gland. The production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is stopped when there is a high concentration of thyroid hormone in the body, this in turn checks the production of T3 and T4 hormones. Diseases occur when the activity of the thyroid gland is affected.
The first case is hypothyroidism, it happens when the thyroid gland becomes less active and the second one is hyperthyroidism, it occurs when the thyroid gland becomes overactive.
Let us have a look at the symptoms of the Hypothyroidism:
Hypothyroidism causes decreased level of T4 and T3 in the blood. This in turn slows down the metabolism of the body. And due to this, various symptoms can be seen which include dry and coarse hair, forgetfulness, constipation, depression, dry skin, hair loss, fatigue, increased menstrual flow in women, intolerance to cold temperatures, slow heart rate, muscle cramps, weight gain, irritability etc.
In case these symptoms are ignored and the patient does not seek any medication for a longer period of time, then following symptoms can also be seen:
Let us have a look at the symptoms of the Hypothyroidism:
Hypothyroidism causes decreased level of T4 and T3 in the blood. This in turn slows down the metabolism of the body. And due to this, various symptoms can be seen which include dry and coarse hair, forgetfulness, constipation, depression, dry skin, hair loss, fatigue, increased menstrual flow in women, intolerance to cold temperatures, slow heart rate, muscle cramps, weight gain, irritability etc.
In case these symptoms are ignored and the patient does not seek any medication for a longer period of time, then following symptoms can also be seen:
- Decreased body temperature
- Dulled mental processes
- Congestive heart failure
Now, let us have a look at the second type of disease related to thyroid gland which is
Hyperthyroidism:
Hyperthyroidism causes an increased level of T3 and T4, which in turn speeds up the metabolism. This results in symptoms like palpitations, high blood pressure, high body temperature, increased sweating, clamminess, feeling agitated and nervous, tremors in hands, restlessness, increased appetite, weight loss, interrupted sleep, frequent bowel movements, teary eyes, osteoporosis (commonly in women), etc.
Graves’ disease also has similar features which include enlarged thyroid gland, bulged eyes, double vision, and raised skin over the shins, etc. Also, thyroid storm can occurs which is fatal, and is caused due to highly active thyroid gland. The symptoms for this are very critical and are listed below:
- Confusion
- Coma
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heart beat
- Jaundice
- Mood swings
- Muscle wasting
- Restlessness
- Weakness
In case these symptoms are seen, it is advisable to seek the help of a doctor immediately. The usual and the best treatment for thyroid is Hormone replacement therapy. Radioactive iodine, anti-thyroid medications or surgeries are helpful for Hyperthyroidism and anti-thyroid medications are helpful for hypothyroidism. Thyroid symptoms if treated with proper care can help one live a longer and healthier life. Apart from these treatments, thyroid symptoms can be controlled if some changes are adapted in our day to day activities which include eating healthy and exercising daily. Also, it is advisable never to ignore the symptoms of any disease and immediately visit your doctor as soon as you notice any of these symptoms.
