Thyroid disease: Hyperthyroidism & Hypothyroidism

Thyroid gland is a small, butterfly shaped organ wrapped around the trachea, located in the front of the neck. It releases hormones that are vital for the various functions of the body. If the thyroid gland doesn't work properly, it can impact the entire body. Too much release of thyroid hormone may lead to thyroid disease like hyperthyroidism while too little secretion of the same is called hypothyroidism. Both are serious conditions which require proper treatment. Thyroid gland releases thyroxine and triiodothyronine hormones and helps to regulate metabolism.

A person loses weight in hyperthyroidism condition whereas gains weight in hypothyroidism. These disorders can be hereditary. This disease is very common and can affect any individual from any age group. It can be present at birth or develop with age. A female is more likely to get this disease than a male.

Symptoms:-

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Risk of thyroid disease is higher if you:-

• Have a family history of thyroid.
• Have diseases like diabetes (type 1), etc.
• Take medicines high in iodine.
• Are above 60, especially if you are a female.
• Have had cancer or thyroid treatment in past.
• Nervousness.
• Menstrual changes.
• Poor concentration.
• Bloating.
• Palpitations.
• Aches or pain.
• High cholesterol levels.
• Heat intolerance.

Causes:-

Conditions causing hypothyroidism:-

• Thyroiditis is a condition in which there is the inflammation of the thyroid gland. It can lower the hormone production of the thyroid gland.
• Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a hereditary, autoimmune condition where the body cells attack and damage the thyroid gland.
• Postpartum thyroiditis is a temporary condition which occurs in a handful of women after childbirth.
• An iodine deficiency is a common and major cause of thyroid because iodine is useful for the gland to produce hormones.
• A non-functioning thyroid gland is the one found in newborns which is inefficient from birth. If not treated in time it may lead to severe mental and physical problems in future.

Conditions responsible for the cause of hyperthyroidism:-

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• Grave's disease or diffuse toxic goitre is a condition in which the thyroid gland becomes overactive and produces too much hormones.
• Overactive nodules within the thyroid gland are also responsible for this condition to occur.
• Thyroiditis disorder is the one in which the thyroid gland releases hormones that were already stored there. This disorder can either be painful or can not be felt at all.
• Excessive iodine increases the hormone secretion of the thyroid gland.

Treatment:-

• Anti thyroid drugs.
• Radioactive iodine.
• Beta blockers.
• Surgeries like thyroidectomy. 
• Thyroid replacement medication for low levels of thyroid hormones.

Prevention:-

• Avoid processed foods too much of chemicals can alter thyroid hormone production.
• Stop smoking.
• Restrict alcohol.
• Limit soy intake.
• Reduce stress.
• Avoid gluten and fast food.
• Add yogurt, nuts, seaweed, milk, chicken, fish, eggs, kale, berries and cauliflowers in your diet.
• Take regular and proper treatment and medication