subject: Thyroid Disorders [print this page] In order to understand the different types of thyroid disorders, and their effects on people all over the world, it's first necessary to understand the role the thyroid plays in the body. The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped, dual-lobed gland which is found just below the larynx in the front area of the neck. The thyroid is a very important organ that manages how the body converts natural chemicals into energy from the food we eat.
Some thyroid disorders are stealthy enough that it can afflict its victim for years without the person knowing about it. Being a prevalent health problem touching millions of lives around the world, it is logical that we examine a few of these thyroid disorders.
Hyperthyroidism
Caused by an overactive thyroid, the thyroid gland produces a huge amount of thyroid hormones which in turn makes our metabolic rate to accelerate. This overactivity of our thyroid gland is due to the presence of autoimmune disease, a disease that forces our body's immune system to reject the presence of our thyroid gland, considering it as a threat. Prevalent symptoms for this thyroid disease includes rapid weight loss, diarrhea, high blood pressure, anxiety, increased heart rate, sensitivity and bulging of the eyes, and distorted vision.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism, also known as an underactive thyroid, is caused when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, which lowers the body's core temperature and also slows down the metabolic rate. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism are almost the exact opposite of hyperthyroidism, and include low blood pressure, slow reflexes, fluid retention, depression, body aches, unclear thinking, fatigue, and constipation.
The Goiter
The most visible of all the thyroid disorders, goiter is a form of infection that causes our thyroid gland to swell. Present in both cases of hyperactive and underactive thyroids, the patient may feel pain and fullness of the neck area and has problems with swallowing and breathing.
Thyroid Storm
Thyroid storm is the most uncommon and life threatening of all thyroid disorders. Prevalent in patients that suffers from hyperthyroidism, immediate medical help is highly recommended in this case. Thyroid
storm occurs when the output of the thyroid hormones dramatically increases thus complicating the symptoms of a hyperthyroid patient. The sudden elevation of the patient's body temperature is what
separates thyroid storm from a common hyperthyroid condition. Some studies have shown that body temperatures of thyroid storm patients can reach 106 Fahrenheit.
Again, it is strongly recommended for a patient that suffers or even show signs of thyroid storm to seek medical attention.
If any of the above described symptoms of thyroid disease sound familiar, you should see your doctor for testing and treatment. Thyroid disease can be controlled through diet, exercise and the right medication. As with any disease, prevention is still the best medicine.
