Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid diseases are common worldwide and are increasingly affecting people from all age groups. We are sure you know someone in your family or neighbourhood suffering from thyroid. India shares a significant burden of thyroid diseases, with over 42 million thyroid patients. 1 out of 3 Indians suffer from one or the other kind of thyroid disorder that may lead to weight gain and hormonal imbalances.

Functions of the Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located in the base of your neck. It is a vital hormone gland and plays a major role in the metabolism, growth, and development of the human body. It helps to regulate many body functions by constantly releasing a steady amount of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream. If the body needs more energy in certain situations – like pregnancy or cold climate, the thyroid gland produces more hormones. Here are the essential body functions that the thyroid controls:

• Breathing
• Body weight
• Heart rate
• Central and peripheral nervous systems
• Muscle strength
• Menstrual cycles
• Body temperature
• Cholesterol levels

Common Thyroid Disorders

Normally the thyroid gland produces the exact number of hormones needed to keep your body’s metabolism running and in balance. Thyroid disease occurs when the thyroid fails to function properly, either by releasing too much T4 hormone or by not releasing enough. Here are the most common thyroid disorders:

Hyperthyroidism

In this condition, the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much of its hormone. Excessive thyroid hormone production leads to symptoms such as:

• Nervousness and irritability
• Weight loss
• Brittle hair and nails
• Bulging eyes

Hypothyroidism

This is the opposite of hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland is underactive, and it can’t produce enough of its hormones. Hypothyroidism leads to symptoms such as:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Weight gain
• Depression
• Memory problems

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

This is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. It can occur at any age, but it’s most common in middle-aged women. The disease occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and slowly destroys the thyroid gland and its ability to produce hormones. The disease can remain stable for years, and symptoms are similar to as of hypothyroidism.

Graves’ Disease

This disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Graves’ is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. This can cause the gland to overproduce the hormone responsible for regulating metabolism. Some of the risk factors include family history, stress, pregnancy, and smoking. The symptoms are common to hyperthyroidism.