Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)
Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck, below the Adam’s apple. Although it only weighs about an ounce, the thyroid can have a tremendous impact on your health. The thyroid’s function is to create thyroid hormone, which regulates every aspect of your metabolism.
This page contains the following information about hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism:
- Facts About Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
- Risk Factors for Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
- Reducing the Risk of Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
- Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
- Imaging Exams for Detecting Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
- Radiology Procedures for Treating Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
- Additional Information on Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
Facts About Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
Following is information on hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism:
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is caused by an over-active thyroid that produces too much thyroid hormone. This can accelerate the metabolism, causing sudden weight loss, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, sweating, and nervousness or irritability.
Hypothyroidism
With hypothyroidism, the thyroid produces too little thyroid hormone. Symptoms of this condition vary significantly, depending on the level of hormone deficiency. Common symptoms include sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, unexplained weight gain, muscle weakness, and depression.
Risk Factors for Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
Following are risk factors for hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism:
Hyperthyroidism
Following are some risk factors for developing hyperthyroidism:
- Being female
- Family history of hyperthyroidism
- Recent pregnancy (within 9 months)
- Enlarged thyroid
- Thyroid nodules
- Thyroid cancer
- Radiation exposure (i.e. radiation therapy)
- Current or past autoimmune disease
- Certain viral infections
Hypothyroidism
Following are some risk factors for developing hypothyroidism:
- Being female
- Aging
- Family history of hypothyroidism
- Recent pregnancy (within 9 months)
- Current or past autoimmune disease
Reducing the Risk of Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
There are no known ways to reduce the risk of developing hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
Following are symptoms for hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism:
Hyperthyroidism
Following are some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism:
- Sudden, unexplained weight loss
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Nervousness or irritability
- Hand tremors
- Sweating
- Fine, brittle hair
- Changes in menstrual patterns
- Increased bowel movements
- Increased sensitivity to heat
- Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
- Fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
Hypothyroidism
Following are some of the symptoms of hypothyroidism:
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Constipation
- Dry skin and hair
- A puffy face
- Hoarse voice
- An elevated blood cholesterol level
- Unexplained weight gain
- Muscle aches, especially in your shoulders and hips
- Pain, stiffness, and swelling in your joints
- Muscle weakness or cramping
- Heavier than normal menstrual flow
- Depression
- Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
Imaging Exams for Detecting Hyperthyroidism
A radioactive iodine uptake test and thyroid scan are often performed to help diagnose hyperthyroidism. The uptake test evaluates how much of and how evenly a radioactive substance is absorbed by the thyroid. A thyroid scan uses a small amount of radioactive material and a special camera to further measure thyroid function and identify abnormal areas in the thyroid.
Radiology Procedures for Treating Hyperthyroidism
Radioactive iodine therapy is used to treat hyperthyroidism. A radioactive form of iodine is administered and absorbed by thyroid tissue, where it causes the gland to shrink.
Additional Information on Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
The information on this page was taken in part from some of the following web sites. Visit these sites for additional information on thyroid disease.
