The thyroid is a small butterfly shaped gland just below the bony prominence in front of our neck. This gland produces thyroid hormones which is the main controller of our body metabolism.
Problems that can occur in thyroid gland:
It is basically of two types.
Over active thyroid (Hyper thyroid)
Under active thyroid (Hypothyroid)
What is hyperthyroidism?
The excess thyroid hormones results in rapid metabolism, this results in excessive energy utilization and this is known as hyper thyroidism.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism
Anxiety , fast heart rate ,nervousness, increased perspiration, trembling in hands, muscle weakness, weight loss, moist warm skin, hair loss, decreased menstrual flow, increased frequency in bowel movements, goiter, eyes popping out from the sockets.
Diagnosis
By testing the levels of thyroid hormones that is T3, T4, and TSH.
Hypothyroidism
Under active thyroid is known as hypothyroidism. Mostly it occurs in adults. But may also occur in newborn and children.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism
Tired ,feeling cold, slow heart rate, poor memory, drowsy during the day even after sleeping all night, poor concentration, weight gain, muscle cramps, husky voice, dry skin, thinning hair, feeling depressed, heavy menstrual flow, infertility, goiter, milky discharge from the breast.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of the hypothyroidism can be done by testing the levels of thyroid hormones in the body that is T3,T4,TSH.
Treatment
Treatment of hypothyroidism is replacing thyroid hormones .
Hypothyroidism facts
If your thyroid levels are normal and if you are putting on weight, that weight gain is not because of thyroid.
Hypothyroidism needs a lifelong treatment.
Blood thyroid are not necessarily given in the fasting state.
Thyroid pills should be taken early morning in empty stomach.
Lifelong thyroid replacement is safe. There are no side effects.
Don’t change the brand of the thyroid medicine without consulting your doctor.
Don’t take calcium or iron or vitamin tablets within 4 hours of your thyroid pills.!!