|  | Conditions Treatments | Thyroid Disease

Signs, Symptoms, & Treatments of Thyroid Diseases

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland in the neck, located just above the collarbone. It produces the hormones that regulate the metabolism. Hypothyroidism is caused by an underproduction of these hormones, while hyperthyroidism is caused by overproduction.

  1. Hypothyroidism Symptoms

    • Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, forgetfulness, depression and constipation.

    Hypothyroidism Treatment

    • A blood test to determine the patient's level of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) will indicate the daily dosage of synthetic hormone necessary. Annual blood tests are recommended to monitor hormone levels.

    Hyperthyroidism Symptoms

    • Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include weight loss, accelerated heartbeat, increased perspiration, hand tremors, nervousness and difficulty sleeping.

    Hyperthyroidism Treatment

    • Treatment for hyperthyroidism includes radioactive iodine, anti-thyroid medication and surgery. In some cases, treatment for hyperthyroidism can cause hypothyroidism.

    Causes

    • Hashimoto's disease, which causes the immune system to attack the thyroid gland, can be a cause of hypothyroidism. Graves' disease, which occurs when antibodies attack the thyroid stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR), is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in the United States.

Thyroid Disease - Related Articles