Common Thyroid Problems Explained

by | Jan 15, 2020 | Thyroid Conditions | 0 comments

Women are affected more frequently than men when it comes to thyroid disorders, and most of the conditions are because abnormal amounts of thyroid hormone are produced. Side effects are usually uncomfortable, but discomfort can be managed easily if the problems are detected and treated early enough. If you suspect you may have a problem with your thyroid, a clinic in Las Vegas can help you to find an effective solution to meet your needs.

Hyperthyroidism is characterized by too much thyroid hormone being produced and may present as:

Subacute Thyroiditis

This condition occurs when the thyroid becomes inflamed and starts to leak thyroid hormone. This situation is usually temporary and lasts for a few weeks or a couple of months.

Toxic Adenomas

This condition occurs when nodules develop and start to secrete thyroid hormone. It affects the body’s hormonal balance, but the majority of nodules are non-cancerous.

Grave’s Disease or hyperthyroidism may also develop from cancerous growths or malfunctions of the pituitary gland.

Hyperthyroidism is characterized by not enough thyroid hormone being produced and may be caused by:

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

This is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own thyroid tissue. The tissue will eventually die if the condition is not treated and stop producing thyroid hormones on its own.

Thyroid Removal

If the thyroid gland is removed or chemically destroyed, it will not produce thyroid hormones anymore. These days doctors have treatment plans in place for patients whose thyroid glands need to be removed.

Excessive Iodide Exposure

If you have been taking medication for cold and flu, are taking specific heart medication or have recently had an x-ray performed, your body may have received too much iodine. Too much iodine can increase your likelihood of developing hypothyroidism, especially if you have suffered from the condition before.

Lithium

Medication and drugs containing lithium can also cause an onset of hypothyroidism.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is a rare condition and affects less than 10 per cent of people who have thyroid nodules. It is most common in people who have had radioactive therapies on their head and neck areas (such as for acne treatment).

Hypothyroidism is more significant for infants and babies, as their metabolic functions rely heavily on the amount of thyroid hormone their bodies produce. In many adults, certain thyroid conditions may self-correct. In others, a more severe form of hypothyroidism called myxedema coma, which is potentially fatal.

If you suspect that your thyroid may be abnormal or are experiencing any of the symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, low cost health care Las Vegas can help you to find a cost effective solution.