Thyroid problems

Thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland located on the front part of the neck. This gland secretes thyroid hormones which are responsible for regulating the body metabolism.

The main hormones released by thyroid gland are triiodothyronine or T3, and thyroxine or T4. Thyroid hormones provide energy to the body cells and also regulate growth and maturation of body tissues.

The most common problems of thyroid gland results in either production of too much thyroid hormone called hyperthyroidism or too little thyroid hormone called hypothyroidism. Other problems of thyroid gland include formation of lumps in the thyroid gland called thyroid nodules and an enlarged thyroid called goiter.

Symptoms

Hyperthyroidism

• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Rapid weight loss
• Diarrhea
• High heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Bulging of the eyes

Hypothyroidism

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Constipation
• Low blood pressure
• Fluid retention
• Depression
• Body pain
• Fertility issues

Goiter

• Swelling in the neck
• Constricted feeling in the neck
• Hoarseness
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Difficulty in breathing

Thyroid nodules

• May or may not cause symptoms
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Fullness feeling in the throat
• Hoarse voice
• Pain in the neck