Which diseases or disorders affect the thyroid glands?

The thyroid gland can be affected by several diseases or disorders, including:

1. Hypothyroidism:

- This occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to a slow metabolism and various symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, and constipation.

2. Hyperthyroidism:

- In this condition, the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, resulting in an overactive metabolism and symptoms such as weight loss, increased heart rate, nervousness, anxiety, heat intolerance, and diarrhea.

3. Thyroiditis:

- This is a group of conditions characterized by inflammation of the thyroid gland. Some types of thyroiditis include Hashimoto's thyroiditis (an autoimmune condition), subacute thyroiditis (often triggered by a viral infection), and postpartum thyroiditis (occurring after childbirth).

4. Goiter:

- A goiter refers to an enlarged thyroid gland. It can develop due to various reasons, including iodine deficiency, certain medications, autoimmune disorders, or underlying thyroid conditions such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

5. Graves' Disease:

- This is an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies produced by the body's immune system bind to the thyroid gland and stimulate it to produce too much thyroid hormone, leading to hyperthyroidism.

6. Nodules:

- Thyroid nodules are lumps or growths that develop within the thyroid gland. While most nodules are benign (non-cancerous), some may be cancerous, so evaluation and monitoring are important.

7. Thyroid Cancer:

- This is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the thyroid gland. There are different types of thyroid cancer, including papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic thyroid cancer.

8. Congenital Hypothyroidism:

- This is a condition present at birth where the thyroid gland doesn't develop or function properly, leading to insufficient production of thyroid hormone. If not diagnosed and treated promptly, it can result in developmental issues.

9. Subacute Thyroiditis:

- Also known as de Quervain's thyroiditis, it's a condition characterized by inflammation of the thyroid gland, often caused by a viral infection. It typically causes pain in the neck, fever, and transient hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism.

10. Postpartum Thyroiditis:

- This condition can develop after pregnancy, usually within the first year after delivery. It involves an inflammation of the thyroid gland, leading to temporary hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.