Detailed Study Of Thyroid Problems In Humans

The thyroid hormones T3 and T4 are released by it. The thyroid gland is responsible for the proper functioning of most of the physiological processes of the body.

In cases of over or low production of thyroid hormone, certain diseases may occur. The uncontrolled production of T3 and T4 may hamper the normal metabolic processes. Goitre, Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism etc are some of its more common problems.

Hypothyroidism is caused due to decreased production of thyroid hormones A deficiency in iodine or even a genetic problem may cause the above hormonal diseases. Weight gain, memory loss, fatigue are some of the symptoms of hypothyroidism. It can be diagnosed by blood test which is done for detecting the level of thyroid hormone in blood.The treatment of this is artificial intake of tablets containing thyroid hormone.Also the person with hypothyroidism must take diet rich in natural food, fruits, vegetables, fibers, whole grains, sea food etc.

A thyroid problem called Hyperthyroidism is caused when more thyroid hormones than required are produced. The causes of this may be Grave's disease which is an auto-immune disease, toxic thyroid adenoma, toxic multi nodular nodules and thyroiditis. A patient who loses weight or hair, or is unable to sleep well, or cannot stand heat, or has an increased heart rate can be assumed to suffer from hyperthyroidism. This can be investigated with the help of blood test, scintigraphy, ultrasound or radio scan. The treatment include surgery, beta-blockers, radio-iodine etc. A very precise diet should be followed by people who suffer from this condition. They should take diet rich in cereals, eggs, fruits, protein foods, vegetables, minerals, vitamins etc. They should keep away from alcohol, caffeine, sugar and diary products including chocolates.

Goiter is enlargement of the thyroid gland. This condition usually doesn't cause any pain. Many a times, there may not be any reason behind this. The enlargement may have pressure effect on the larynx and pharynx of the individual. This may lead to breathing problems such as shortness of breath. Cough and painful swallowing are some of its other effects. This may also be accompanied by abnormal sounds. Wheezing is the more common term for it.Sometimes, there might be mood swings, decreased concentration and depression. It may also cause constipation. Radioactive therapy, diet regulation, surgery and medication are some odf the ways by which it can be treated.

the thyroid nodules are formed due to the abnormal growth of the thyroid gland. These are often a case of concern as sometimes, such lumps and nodules can be cancerous also. There are various kinds of thyroid nodules. These are Follicular adenoma, Inflammatory nodules, Hyper-functioning thyroid nodules, colloidal nodules, thyroid cysts and Thyroid cancer. Some of the common causes of these are iodine deficiency, Hashimoto's disease, genetic abnormalities, radiation therapy. The treatment of this involves hormone suppression therapy, radioactive iodine, surgery etc.

Know more about thyroid problems and symptoms of goiter.