Thyroid disease refers to almost every possible functional disorder that can occur in the butterfly-shaped gland, located at the front of the neck.

The thyroid gland is crucial since it produces thyroid hormones that help manage the energy and metabolism of the body. When this gland doesn’t function correctly, it can cause many problems like weight gain, sleep issues, anxiety, and depression. Although many factors influence a person’s thyroid health, some types of thyroid ailments can be hereditary.

How does the thyroid gland work?

The thyroid gland uses iodine obtained from the food that we eat to produce two primary hormones, triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4). These two thyroid hormones help to regulate the metabolism of the body.

They control the temperature, heart rate, body weight, and energy levels. Additionally, they also promote the growth and development of the human body, especially in the case of children.

The Different Types of Thyroid Disorders

Some common thyroid ailments are:.

: Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism refers to the production of excess thyroid hormones in the body. This condition leads to a faster metabolism along with some other symptoms like weight loss, nervousness, or irritability, etc.

: Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is the opposite of hyperthyroidism. In this condition, the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to a slow metabolism along with other symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, or depression.

: Thyroiditis

Thyroiditis is the inflammation of the thyroid gland that can cause either the over or under production of thyroid hormones. There are various different types of thyroiditis, and they can lead to a temporary spike or decrease in the hormone levels.

Thyroiditis can also lead to permanent damage to the thyroid gland, which may cause hypothyroidism.

: Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid Nodules refer to abnormal growths on the thyroid gland. Nodules can either be fluid-filled cysts or firm lumps. In most cases, these nodules aren’t cancerous.

If a nodule is cancerous, the doctor will usually suggest the removal of the thyroid gland.

: Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is a rare type of cancer. It occurs when the cells of the thyroid gland grow uncontrollably and begin to damage the surrounding tissues. The most common type of thyroid cancer is papillary thyroid cancer.

Are thyroid diseases genetic?

Various factors contribute to thyroid ailments, including family history, environmental triggers, and autoimmune disorders. Some forms of thyroid diseases are indeed hereditary.

In the case of hyperthyroidism, gene mutations can directly lead to the condition’s occurrence. Sometimes, these mutations can also lead to goiters or nodules on the thyroid gland.

Related Article Can thyroid issues run in families?

In the case of hypothyroidism, autoimmune disorders that often run in families can cause the disease.

About 80% of hypothyroidism cases are an autoimmune form called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, in which the thyroid gland is slowly destroyed by the immune system.

Environmental factors can also play a role in the development of thyroid ailments. It includes exposure to radiation or certain chemicals, which can damage the thyroid gland.

Nutritional deficiencies, especially low iodine levels, can lead to the development of hypothyroidism. Smoking and stress can also aggravate existing conditions or contribute to the development of thyroid ailments.

How is thyroid disease diagnosed?

Diagnosing thyroid issues involves a physical examination, medical history, and various blood tests. The doctor checks for the size and consistency of the thyroid gland to look for nodules or swelling.

They evaluate the patient’s medical history to rule out any genetic predispositions to thyroid disease.

The primary diagnostic tool for thyroid diseases is blood tests. Depending on the evaluation, the doctors can recommend different tests to examine the levels of thyroid hormones, TSH, and antibodies in the blood.

Occasionally, ultrasound and other imaging tests can help evaluate the size and structure of the thyroid gland.

How is thyroid disease treated?

The treatment options for thyroid diseases depend on the diagnosis and the severity of the thyroid ailment. In cases of hyperthyroidism, the doctors typically prescribe medication that blocks or reduces the production of thyroid hormones.

They may also suggest radioactive iodine therapy, which destroys the overactive thyroid cells or recommend surgery to remove the thyroid gland.

In cases of hypothyroidism, doctors usually prescribe medication that includes thyroid hormones. These medications help to regulate the hormone levels and reverse the existing symptoms.

If the doctors detect thyroid nodules or cancer, surgery to remove the nodules or complete the removal of the thyroid gland is the standard course of treatment.

Conclusion

While heredity plays a fundamental role in the development of some forms of thyroid disease, other factors such as environmental exposure or nutritional deficiencies also contribute to the onset of these ailments.

Timely diagnosis and treatment are critical in managing these conditions. Therefore, if you notice any of the signs and symptoms of thyroid disease, talk to your doctor.