The Knowledge Board:
Thyroid Problems
The thyroid is a two-lobed endocrine gland, located at the base of the neck that secretes two hormones that regulate the rates of metabolism, growth, and development.
Hyperthyroidism, also known as or overactive thyroid, and Hypothyroidism or under-active thyroid are the two most common problems of the thyroid gland.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition which occurs when there is an excessive production of thyroid hormones. This pathology is more common amongst women than men.
On the contrary Hypothyroidism develops when the thyroid gland fails to produce or secrete thyroid hormones.
There are several causes of Hyperthyroidism, the most common are:
• Grave’s disease, an autoimmune disease which causes an enlargement of the thyroid gland and a consequent overproduction of hormone. This is the main cause of hyperthyroidism.
• Thyroiditis or inflammation of the thyroid gland. This includes the post- partum thyroiditis, which is developed by one in twenty women few months after giving birth.
• Thyroid nodules, which are benign lumps or tumors in the gland
• Taking excessive doses of any form of thyroid hormones.
While, the main causes of hypothyroidism are:
• Autoimmune thyroiditis or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, a form of thyroid inflammation caused by the patient’s immune system. It leaves a large part of the thyroid’s cells damaged and incapable of produce hormone
• As a consequence of medical treatments that interferes with the normal production of the thyroid hormone.
• Surgical removal of the thyroid gland or a portion of it to treat a number of thyroid conditions.
• Certain infections which can temporarily affect the functioning of the thyroid gland.
• Disorders of the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus which produce hormones that control the functioning of the thyroid.
• Radiations used to treat some forms of cancer which can destroy the thyroid gland
If left untreated hyperthyroidism can cause serious problems which include osteoporosis (weakening of the bones) and irregular hearth rhythms, or it can even be fatal.
Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to serious pathologies such as Myxedema - a condition that causes swelling of tissue, increased fluid around the heart and lungs, and dementia.
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