Thyroid disorders are conditions that affect the thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck responsible for regulating metabolism, energy levels, and hormone production. When the thyroid does not function properly, it can cause widespread effects on the body. These disorders are generally categorized as underactive (hypothyroidism), overactive (hyperthyroidism), structural abnormalities like nodules or goiter, and thyroid cancer. Thyroid imbalances can result from autoimmune diseases, iodine deficiency, genetic predisposition, or other medical conditions. Symptoms and severity vary depending on the type of disorder, and treatment options include medications, iodine therapy, or surgery. Best Thyroid Doctor In Byculla, Mumbai
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), leading to a slowed metabolism. It is often caused by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, depression, and hair thinning. Treatment involves daily thyroid hormone replacement therapy, usually levothyroxine.
Hyperthyroidism is characterized by excessive production of thyroid hormones, which speeds up metabolism. The most common cause is Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder. Other causes include toxic nodular goiter or thyroiditis. Symptoms include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, sweating, tremors, and heat intolerance. Treatments include anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery to remove part of the thyroid gland.
Goiter refers to an enlarged thyroid gland, which may result from iodine deficiency, hormonal imbalances, or autoimmune conditions. A goiter can be diffuse or nodular and may cause visible neck swelling, difficulty swallowing, or breathing issues in severe cases. Treatment depends on the cause and severity, ranging from observation to iodine supplementation or surgery.
Thyroid nodules are growths or lumps within the thyroid gland. While most are benign, some may be cancerous or cause hormonal imbalances if they produce excess hormones (toxic adenomas). Nodules are often discovered incidentally during imaging tests. Management involves monitoring, fine-needle aspiration biopsy for suspicious nodules, or surgical removal if necessary.
Thyroid cancer is a rare but serious condition involving malignant growths in the thyroid gland. The common types include papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic thyroid cancer. Symptoms may include a lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or swollen lymph nodes. Early-stage thyroid cancer is often treatable with surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, or thyroid hormone suppression therapy.
Thyroiditis refers to inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can be caused by infections, autoimmune conditions, or medications. Types of thyroiditis include subacute thyroiditis (often painful), postpartum thyroiditis, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Symptoms depend on the type and may include temporary hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and underlying causes.