Hypothyroid Development And Control Issues

By Burt Champagne


The butterfly-shaped gland which can be felt in the front of the neck is known as the thyroid gland. This gland makes use of our iodine intake so that thyroid hormones are produced. The hormones play an important role in the regulation of metabolic processes as well as help in other bodily function like growth. The efficiency of hormone production of this gland is controlled by another gland situated in the brain which is called the pituitary gland.

If this gland is under active or if it is not properly regulated, this can result to thyroid problem known as hypothyroidism. The latter can be caused by autoimmune thyroiditis, inflammation of the gland after pregnancy or postpartum thyroiditis, silent thyroiditis and acute one. If this gland in our neck is overactive or is producing too much hormone, it can cause what is known as hyperthyroidism. This is cause by Toxic multinodular goiter, grave's disease, Hashitoxicosis, excessive iodine intake and toxic nodule.

The signs and symptoms of the problem known as hypothyroidism widely vary and depend on the severity of the deficiency in hormones. Some experiences mental forgetfulness and fogginess, the feeling of excessive cold, dry skin, fatigue or even prolonged and excessive menstrual bleeding. Hyperthyroidism is also suggested by different symptoms. Generally, it signs of this thyroid problem can include, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, rapid heart rate, weight loss and scant or irregular menstrual flow. Those who only have mild hyperthyroidism or those who are over 70 may not show any sign at all. The signs will become manifest when the condition is already worsen.

Improper growth development and some personal abnormalities can also lead to thyroid problems. It can be the cause of cysts that are benign or those that are cancerous. The cancer can either be medullary, follicular, papillary or anaplastic. An enlarged gland is a medical condition known as goiter where the size ranges from being slightly noticeable to the point that it is no longer appealing to the sight and needs removal through surgeries. Abnormalities can also lead the gland to develop in some abnormal areas.

When the thyroid problem is because of the defect in its structure, one will also experience different sets of signs and symptoms. This can include compression in the esophagus and trachea which makes it difficult to breathe and swallow. Increase in the size of the gland can even lead to bleeding and the person may feel local pain. If one is inflicted with cancer in this gland, he is also likely to experience the common systemic symptoms such as night sweats, lack of appetite and significant weight loss.

Depending on problems being experienced, there are different ways being used to address it. Medications may be used to reduce the hormone production while others inject synthetic hormone to supply the inadequacy. Surgical treatment is done on over enlarge gland as when it compresses the airways. For those who are no longer responding to medication, radioactive ablation is usually being performed. This is also done for those who have certain form of cancer in this gland.




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