Thyroid
The thyroid gland is responsible for producing essential hormones like thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These thyroid hormones control metabolism, heart rate, breathing, the nervous system, body temperature, weight and many other functions. Hence, any ailment in the thyroid gland that affects your ability to function is termed a thyroid disorder. Hyperthyroidism is one such condition in which the thyroid gland starts to produce excessive or fewer amounts of hormones.
Hyperthyroidism is usually caused by an autoimmune disorder called Grave’s disease. Some of the other causes are nodules in the thyroid gland, inflammation of the thyroid gland (from a virus or trouble with the immune system), excessive consumption of iodine in food or medication and pregnancy. It is diagnosed based on symptoms, physical examination and blood tests.
There’s also hypothyroidism, in which the thyroid gland produces less of the important hormones than the body requires. It is more likely to affect women, particularly those over the age of 60. It causes an upset in the balance of reactions in the body. While it rarely shows symptoms in the early stages, untreated hypothyroidism can result in a host of conditions ranging from obesity and infertility to joint pain and heart disease. Hence, an immediate consultation is necessary to avoid further complications and ensure timely intervention.
Symptoms:
- Muscle weakness
- Tremors
- Mood swings & anxiety
- Rapid heartbeats or heart palpitations
- Skin dryness
- Weight loss
- Disturbed sleep
- constipation
- Fatigue
- High blood cholesterol levels
- Pain and stiffness in the joints
- Depression
- Menstrual periods which are heavier than normal or irregular