The Thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, just above the collarbone. It is part of an intricate network of glands called the endocrine system. The endocrine system is responsible for coordinating many body’s activities. The thyroid gland manufactures hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism.

Thyroid Disorders:
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Goiter
  • Thyroid nodules
  • Thyroid cancer
Hyperthyroidism: 

In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland is overactive. It produces too much of its hormone.  The following are symptoms for hyperthyroidism:

  • Irritability/nervousness 
  • Muscle weakness/tremors 
  • Infrequent, scant menstrual periods 
  • Weight loss 
  • Sleep disturbances 
  • Enlarged thyroid gland 
  • Vision problems or eye irritation 
  • Heat sensitivity 
Hypothyroidism: 

Hypothyroidism is the opposite of hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland is underactive, and it can’t produce enough of its hormones. The following are symptoms for hypothyroidism:

  • Fatigue 
  • Frequent, heavy menstrual periods 
  • Forgetfulness 
  • Weight gain 
  • Dry, coarse skin and hair 
  • Hoarse voice 
  • Intolerance to cold 
Goiter:

Goiter is a noncancerous enlargement of the thyroid gland. The most common cause of goiter is iodine deficiency in the diet. The following are symptoms for Goiter:

  • swelling or tightness in your neck
  • difficulties breathing or swallowing
  • coughing or wheezing
  • hoarseness of voice
Thyroid nodules:

Thyroid nodules are growths that form on or in the thyroid gland. Most thyroid nodules don’t cause any symptoms. However, if they grow large enough, they can cause swelling in the neck and lead to breathing and swallowing difficulties, pain, and goiter. Some nodules produce thyroid hormone, causing abnormally high levels in the bloodstream. 

Thyroid cancer:

Thyroid cancer is the most common type of endocrine cancer in children. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include:

  • A lump in the neck
  • Swollen glands
  • Tight feeling in the neck
  • Trouble breathing or swallowing
  • Hoarse voice

 

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