Your thyroid is a small but very important gland that sits in the front of your neck and plays an essential role in how efficiently your body uses fats and carbohydrates for energy. When your thyroid isn’t working properly, it’s known as a thyroid disorder or disease. The most common problems are an overactive or underactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Understanding the functions of your thyroid will help you manage its effects on your body. Here are some tips on how to understand your thyroid better.
What does your thyroid do?
Your thyroid is a small gland that produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Metabolism is the process of how your body converts carbohydrates and fats into energy. An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, is one of the most common disorders in the world. It affects about 3-5% of the U.S. population. An overactive thyroid is less common, affecting about 1% of the population.
The thyroid produces two main hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). T3 and T4 are responsible for your metabolic rate. Proper levels of these hormones help your body break down food and use the resulting energy, enabling you to maintain a healthy metabolism.
How to know if you have a problem with your thyroid?
These are the common issues related to thyroid disorders.
Fatigue – If your thyroid is underactive, your body’s metabolic rate slows down and you’re likely to feel tired and sluggish.
Weight gain – If your thyroid is underactive, you are more likely to gain weight, especially around your midsection.
Swollen and enlarged neck – If your thyroid is overactive, your thyroid gland will swell and cause the skin around your neck to stretch.
Trouble getting pregnant – If your thyroid is overactive or if you take medication to treat an underactive thyroid, you may have trouble getting pregnant.
Changes to your periods – If your thyroid is overactive or if you take medication to treat an underactive thyroid, you might have irregular periods.
Dry skin – If your thyroid is overactive you might notice dry, flaky skin.
Difficulty concentrating – If your thyroid is overactive you might have a harder time focusing.
Hyperthyroidism: Know the symptoms
If your thyroid gland churns out too much hormone, you have an overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism. The most common issues related to hyperthyroidism are a rapid heart rate, sweating, fatigue, anxiety, and weight loss.
Hyperthyroidism can be caused by an autoimmune condition called Graves’ Disease, which inflames and damages the thyroid. It’s also commonly caused by an iodine deficiency, a goiter (a non-cancerous growth on the thyroid), or a non-toxic nodule on your thyroid. Hyperthyroidism can also be caused by an abnormal immune response to taking certain types of medication, such as lithium, amiodarone, and interferon.
Hypothyroidism: Know the symptoms
If your thyroid produces too little hormone, you have an underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism. The most common issues related to hypothyroidism are fatigue, weight gain, and dry skin. Hypothyroidism can be caused by an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s Disease, which causes the immune system to attack and damage the thyroid. It’s also commonly caused by radioactive iodine therapy, surgery to remove the thyroid, pregnancy, and other health issues. People can use natural hypothyroidism treatment can be used as a cure for hypothyroidism.
Managing an overactive or underactive thyroid
If you’ve been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, you’ll want to work with your doctor to manage your levels. If you have hyperthyroidism, your doctor may prescribe a medication to calm your thyroid down and bring your levels back to normal. If you have hypothyroidism, your doctor will prescribe medication to stimulate your thyroid and bring your levels back to normal.
Conclusion
Your thyroid is an important organ in your body. While it is often overlooked, it is critical to achieving optimal health. When the thyroid isn’t functioning properly, it can negatively impact your health in many ways, including weight gain, fatigue, and a decrease in mental clarity. In spite of thyroid disorders being common, they are also very treatable. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms outlined in this article, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible, so that you can receive the care you need to feel your best again.
