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Can You Outgrow a Thyroid Problem?

According to Medline Plus, thyroid disease affects millions of Americans every year. Although you cannot completely outgrow a thyroid problem, there are treatment options available to help alleviate its symptoms.

  1. Function

    • The thyroid gland produces hormones which control your metabolism. Metabolism controls your energy levels, appetite, weight, cell growth and heart rate.

    Types

    • Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, occurs when the gland does not produce enough hormones. An overactive thyroid is called hyperthyroidism. These conditions may cause nodules, or cysts, to develop on your thyroid.

    Hypothyroidism

    • Unfortunately, hypothyroidism does not go away; its symptoms are kept at bay with hormone replacement medicines like Synthroid. Your hormone levels are checked occasionally through blood tests to determine the dosage.

    Hyperthyroidism

    • Radioiodine treatments are used to treat hyperthyroidism by destroying thyroid tissue in order to prevent the gland from excreting excess hormones. Hypothyroidism is a typical side effect of radioiodine treatments, thus leading to lifelong hormone replacement therapy. .

    Cancer

    • Thyroid nodules can possibly turn cancerous. If cancer is suspected, your thyroid gland will be removed. The problem will still not be completely resolved, as you will have to take hormone replacement medications for life.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Thyroid problems do not solve themselves. If you suspect you have a thyroid problem, seek treatment right away so that you can lead a more comfortable and enjoyable life.

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