Description

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It produces hormones — mainly thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) — which control the body’s metabolism, energy use, growth, and development. When the thyroid does not function properly, it leads to a thyroid disorder. These disorders cause either too much or too little thyroid hormone in the body. 🔹 Types of Thyroid Disorders 1. Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid) • The thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. • Causes: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune), iodine deficiency, certain medications, or thyroid surgery. • Symptoms: • Fatigue, weakness • Weight gain • Cold intolerance • Dry skin, hair loss • Constipation • Slow heart rate, depression ⸻ 2. Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid) • The thyroid gland produces too much hormone. • Causes: Graves’ disease (autoimmune), thyroid nodules, thyroiditis, or excess iodine. • Symptoms: • Weight loss despite normal appetite • Heat intolerance • Nervousness, anxiety, irritability • Tremors, palpitations • Increased sweating • Difficulty sleeping ⸻ 3. Goiter • An enlargement of the thyroid gland, which may occur in both hypo- or hyperthyroidism. • Causes: Iodine deficiency, autoimmune conditions (Graves’ or Hashimoto’s disease). ⸻ 4. Thyroid Nodules • Lumps or growths in the thyroid gland. • Usually benign, but sometimes can be cancerous. • Symptoms: Often asymptomatic; may cause swelling or trouble swallowing if large. ⸻ 5. Thyroid Cancer • Malignant growth in the thyroid tissue. • Symptoms: Lump in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or swollen lymph nodes.