Thyroid Disease Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Thyroid disease includes a variety of conditions that affect the function or structure of the thyroid gland. This gland is shaped like a butterfly which is located at the front of the neck.
The thyroid gland has an important role in the regulation of various metabolic processes throughout the body. The various types of thyroid disease that exist can affect either the function of the thyroid gland, its structure, or both.
The thyroid gland is located below the Adam’s apple and surrounds the trachea, which is an organ in the respiratory system. The thyroid gland uses iodine to produce two important hormones, namely thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
The function of the thyroid gland is regulated through a feedback mechanism that involves the brain. When thyroid hormone levels are low, the hypothalamus in the brain produces thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) which causes the pituitary gland which is located at the base of the brain to produce thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). This hormone stimulates the thyroid gland to produce more T4.
Symptom
Signs and symptoms of thyroid disease depend on the type of cause. In hypothyroidism, signs and symptoms may include:
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dry skin
- Constipation
- Feeling cold
- Accumulation of body fluids
- Muscle and joint pain
- Depression
- Excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding in women
In hyperthyroidism, signs and symptoms may include:
- Shaking of body parts (tremor)
- nervousness
- Fast heart rate
- Fatigue
- Can’t stand the heat
- Improved bowel movements
- Excessive sweating
- Difficulty concentrating
- Unintentional excess weight loss
Reason
There are various types of thyroid disease, including:
- Hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is caused by the thyroid gland producing too little thyroid hormone. This condition can be caused by abnormalities in the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus.
Some of the causes of hypothyroidism that are quite common are Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (a condition in which the body’s immune system causes inflammation of the thyroid gland), resistance to thyroid hormones, and other thyroid inflammations such as acute thyroiditis and postpartum thyroiditis.
- Hyperthyroidism. This condition is caused by the overproduction of thyroid hormone. Signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism are generally caused by an increased metabolism.
Some of the causes of hyperthyroidism that are quite common are Graves’ disease, thyroid nodules that cause an increase in thyroid hormone, and excessive consumption of iodine.
- Mumps. The term goiter or goiter generally describes an enlargement of the thyroid gland, regardless of the cause. Goiter is not a specific disease and can be associated with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or normal thyroid function.
- Thyroid nodules. A thyroid nodule is the term used to describe an abnormal lump or mass in the thyroid gland.
Nodules can be caused by benign cysts, benign tumors, or thyroid cancer. Nodules can number one or more, with sizes that can vary. If the nodule is very large, it can also cause symptoms due to pressure on the organs around the thyroid gland.
- Thyroid cancer. There are several types of thyroid cancer, depending on the type of cells in the thyroid gland that cause cancer. Most thyroid cancer conditions can be treated well if diagnosed at an early stage.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of thyroid disease is made through a series of detailed medical interviews and a thorough direct physical examination. In addition, several investigations can also be carried out to determine the diagnosis of various thyroid diseases.
Blood tests may be done to check thyroid hormone and TSH levels. In addition, this examination can also be done to identify the presence of antibodies against thyroid tissue, such as anti-thyroglobulin, anti-thyroperoxidase, or antibodies that stimulate the TSH receptor.
Imaging studies may also be performed if thyroid nodules or thyroid enlargement are found. Ultrasound examination (USG) can help visualize the consistency of the tissue found in the thyroid gland and shows the presence of cysts or calcifications.
A thyroid scan using radioactive iodine can also be done to evaluate the function of the thyroid gland. In addition, a fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) can also be performed to remove a sample of cells or tissue from the thyroid gland for further evaluation.
Treatment
Treatment for thyroid disease depends on the type of thyroid disease that occurs and can involve medication or surgery.
In conditions of hypothyroidism, treatment can be given to replace the lacking thyroid hormone, using synthetic thyroid hormones. Conversely, in hyperthyroidism, medication can be used to reduce excess thyroid hormone production or prevent thyroid hormone from being released from the thyroid gland.
In addition, in conditions of hyperthyroidism, treatment can also be given to treat symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as increased heart rate.
Surgery may be performed to remove very large goiters or nodules in the thyroid gland. In addition, surgery is also a treatment option if there is suspicion of thyroid cancer. If the thyroid gland is completely removed, the individual will need to take synthetic thyroid hormone for life.
Prevention
Prevention of thyroid disease depends on the type of thyroid disease in question. One recommendation that can be applied is to consume iodine according to the recommended daily intake.