Hypothyroid: Functions, Complications And Treatment

By Tamala McNaughton


The butterfly-shaped gland which can be felt in the front of the neck is known as the thyroid gland. This gland makes use of our iodine intake so that thyroid hormones are produced. The hormones play an important role in the regulation of metabolic processes as well as help in other bodily function like growth. The efficiency of hormone production of this gland is controlled by another gland situated in the brain which is called the pituitary gland.

If the hormones are not produced in sufficient amount as when the gland is under active, it can lead to hypothyroidism. The major culprits of this condition include gland inflammation after delivery, acute thyroiditis, silent thyroiditis and autoimmune one. On the other hand, the over production of hormones when the gland is hyper active results in the condition called hyperthyroidism. Major cause of this thyroid problem includes too much iodine intake, toxic multinodular goiter, grave's disease, Hashitoxicosis and toxic nodules.

The signs and symptoms of the problem known as hypothyroidism widely vary and depend on the severity of the deficiency in hormones. Some experiences mental forgetfulness and fogginess, the feeling of excessive cold, dry skin, fatigue or even prolonged and excessive menstrual bleeding. Hyperthyroidism is also suggested by different symptoms. Generally, it signs of this thyroid problem can include, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, rapid heart rate, weight loss and scant or irregular menstrual flow. Those who only have mild hyperthyroidism or those who are over 70 may not show any sign at all. The signs will become manifest when the condition is already worsen.

When the structure of the gland is not properly develop or suffering from abnormalities, a person may also experience thyroid problems. It can be a non-malignant cyst or a cancerous one which can either be anaplastic, papillary, follicular or medullary cancer. When the glands is enlarged, the condition is known as goiter and the sizes ranges from fairly noticeable to cosmetically unappealing which may need surgical removal. If a person suffers developmental abnormalities, the gland may also develop in an abnormal area.

There are also signs and symptoms which can be experiences when the structure of this gland has a problem. This may include tracheal or esophagus compression which leads to difficulty in swallowing and breathing. It may even reach the size wherein it becomes very cosmetically unappealing. The increase in size leads to bleeding which can cause local pain. If one has cancer problem in this gland, he may also experience systemic symptoms like change in appetite, night sweats, and weight loss.

Medication is commonly given to those who have over production of hormones while synthetic hormones are administered to those who are deficient in those hormones. Those whose trachea and esophagus are experiencing compression of the airways because of enlargement usually undergoes surgical treatment. If the person will not properly respond to the medication given, the other option is to undergo radioactive ablation. This is also the procedure for those who have or at risk of developing cancer.




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