Thyroid Disorders

How to Recognize Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism in Time

The thyroid gland is a small but extremely important organ located at the front of the neck. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, heart function, the nervous system, and many other vital body functions. Disorders of the thyroid can lead to various diseases, the most common being hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. These conditions require timely diagnosis and treatment.

What Are Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism?

Why Is This Important?

Thyroid hormones affect nearly every system in the body. Both excess and deficiency can cause significant health changes — from weight gain and fatigue to heart issues and osteoporosis.

Key Symptoms

Hypothyroidism:
• Constant fatigue and sleepiness
• Weight gain despite normal diet
• Cold intolerance
• Dry skin, brittle hair and nails
• Constipation
• Slowed speech, thinking, and movement
• Menstrual irregularities
• Depression, apathy

Hyperthyroidism:
• Rapid heartbeat, palpitations
• Weight loss with a good appetite
• Excessive sweating, feeling overheated
• Hand tremors
• Irritability, anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea
• Bulging eyes (Graves’ disease)

How Is the Diagnosis Made?

Thyroid disorder diagnosis includes:

1. Blood tests for hormone levels:
   • TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone)
   • Free T4 and T3
2. Ultrasound of the thyroid — to evaluate structure and detect nodules
3. Thyroid antibodies — for autoimmune thyroid diseases like Hashimoto’s or Graves’
4. Scintigraphy or fine-needle biopsy — if further clarification is needed

Treatment

For Hypothyroidism:

• Hormone replacement therapy — usually levothyroxine
• Dosage is adjusted individually under TSH monitoring

For Hyperthyroidism:

• Antithyroid medications (e.g., thiamazole)
• Radioiodine therapy — to destroy part of the gland
• Surgery (in certain cases)
• Beta-blockers — to relieve symptoms like tachycardia and anxiety

Who Is at Risk?

• Women over 40
• People with autoimmune diseases
• Family history of thyroid disorders
• Iodine deficiency or excess in the diet
• Chronic illnesses and stress
• Pregnancy and postpartum period

How to Prevent Thyroid Diseases

• Eat iodine-rich foods (sea fish, seaweed, iodized salt)
• Get regular check-ups, especially with symptoms or family history
• Avoid self-medicating with hormones or thyroid-related supplements
• Manage stress and maintain a healthy lifestyle

Modern Approaches to Thyroid Diagnosis and Treatment

1. Molecular Diagnostics
   • Assesses the malignancy risk of thyroid nodules
   • Helps avoid unnecessary surgeries in benign cases
2. Elastography
   • An advanced ultrasound technique to evaluate tissue stiffness and detect suspicious areas
3. Telemedicine
   • Enables remote consultations with endocrinologists
   • Convenient for therapy monitoring, especially in chronic conditions
4. Self-monitoring apps
   • Track symptoms, medication intake, and lab results
   • Help streamline communication with your doctor

Everyday Health Tips

• Use iodized salt — especially important in iodine-deficient regions
• Include seafood in your diet 1–2 times per week
• Practice stress management — the thyroid is sensitive to emotional health
• Stay physically active — it boosts metabolism and well-being
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule — essential for hormone balance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can hypothyroidism be cured completely?
   Primary hypothyroidism typically requires lifelong therapy, but symptoms are fully manageable with the right treatment.
2. Is hyperthyroidism permanent?
   Not necessarily. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, full recovery is often possible.
3. Can you get pregnant with thyroid disease?
   Yes, but it’s essential to consult a doctor in advance and stabilize hormone levels, as the thyroid plays a key role in fertility and fetal development.
4. Are thyroid nodules always cancerous?
   No. Over 90% of nodules are benign. However, each case should be monitored with imaging and testing (ultrasound, lab work, and biopsy if needed).
5. Should I take iodine or supplements if I have thyroid problems?
   No! Self-treatment can be harmful. Iodine is only beneficial when deficient and should be prescribed by a doctor.

Conclusion

We are always here to offer you quality treatment and an individualized approach.
Your health is our priority! ❤️