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What are the symptoms of thyroid diseases and how to diagnose them?
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Reviewed by: Dr. Ahmed Al-Matar, Endocrinology and Diabetes Consultant

Symptoms of thyroid gland diseases must be paid attention to, as the thyroid gland is one of the important glands in the body, as it produces hormones that affect many vital functions such as metabolism and growth, and any imbalance in the secretion of these hormones, whether in excess or deficiency, can lead to multiple health problems, so it is necessary to recognize the early symptoms in order to quickly intervene and treat them to avoid any complications, and we will tell you about all the symptoms, diagnosis, and how treatment is done through this article. 

Symptoms of thyroid diseases

Symptoms of thyroid diseases Known as hypothyroidism, it is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient amounts of its hormones. This deficiency affects various body functions, as these hormones control the metabolism process and convert food into energy. Symptoms include fatigue, constipation, hair loss, slow heartbeat, and weight gain.

The thyroid gland is a small hormonal gland located in the neck that greatly affects many body functions by secreting hormones that control the metabolism process. When the thyroid gland suffers from problems such as hyperactivity or hypoactivity, multiple symptoms appear that affect the body as a whole. The most important symptoms of thyroid diseases include the following:

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism 

Overactivity occurs when the thyroid gland secretes more hormones than required, causing the body's processes to speed up. Symptoms of thyroid disease include:

  • Unexplained weight loss, even when eating normal amounts of food.
  • Increased heartbeat or rapid heartbeat (more than 100 beats per minute).
  • Excessive sweating and feeling extremely hot.
  • Insomnia or difficulty sleeping.
  • Anxiety or stress and feeling confused.
  • Muscle weakness, especially in the extremities.
  • Diarrhea or increased bowel movement.
  • Sagging skin, especially around the eyes.
  • Swelling in the neck due to an enlarged thyroid gland.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism 

Hypothyroidism is a chronic condition that requires continuous treatment. Hypothyroidism cannot be completely cured, but the symptoms of thyroid diseases can be effectively controlled by taking appropriate medications such as levothyroxine, which compensates for the deficiency of thyroid hormones. Commitment to treatment and regular follow-up with the doctor also help in maintaining hormone levels within normal levels and living a normal life. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient amounts of hormones, which leads to a slowdown in many body functions. Symptoms of thyroid diseases include the following:

  • Unexplained weight gain Despite the lack of food or usual eating.
  • Feeling constantly cold and chilly in the extremities.
  • Extreme fatigue and loss of energy.
  • Dry skin and hair.
  • Hair loss.
  • Chronic constipation.
  • Depression or mood swings.
  • Swelling of the face and swelling around the eyes.
  • Difficulty concentrating and memory loss.
  • Slow heartbeat.

Symptoms of Graves' disease

Graves' disease is a common cause of hyperthyroidism, and it can be accompanied by additional symptoms such as:

  • Puffy eyes (swelling behind the eyes), leading to difficulty closing the eyes or a burning and irritation feeling.
  • Eye complications such as double vision or redness in the eyes.

What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism in children?

Symptoms of thyroid diseases, specifically symptoms of hypothyroidism in children, include the following:

  • Growth retardation.
  • Hair loss.
  • حساسية للبرد.
  • Persistent constipation.
  • Tired and sleeping for long hours.
  • Slow mental development.
  • Facial swelling.

عوامل خطر الإصابة بنقص نشاط الغدة الدرقية

عوامل خطر الإصابة بنقص نشاط الغدة الدرقية تشمل:

  • وجود تاريخ عائلي للإصابة بأمراض الغدة الدرقية يزيد من خطر الإصابة.
  • خطر الإصابة مع التقدم في العمر.
  • Immunological diseases such as Rheumatoid arthritis Celiac disease.
  • اضطرابات الغدة النخامية التي تؤثر على إفراز الهرمونات.
  •  Women suffer from thyroiditis after pregnancy.
  • Medications such as lithium used to treat psychiatric illnesses.

يمكنك حجز استشارتك في Diabetes and Endocrinology Center At Al Mousa Specialist Hospital

Methods of diagnosing the thyroid gland

Thyroid disorders are diagnosed through several advanced medical methods to determine whether the gland is functioning normally or if there are problems such as hyperactivity or deficiency in its activity. Among the most important diagnostic methods are the following:

  • Clinical examination: The doctor examines the gland by feeling it in the neck to see if there are any abnormal swellings or masses.
  • Blood analysis: It measures levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), in addition to the thyroid hormones themselves (T3 and T4). Low or high TSH can indicate hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism and to detect autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto's or Graves' disease.
  • الأشعة فوق الصوتية (السونار): It is used to detect the size and shape of the gland and any abnormal nodes or masses in it.
  • Radioactive iodine absorption test: يقيس قدرة الغدة الدرقية على امتصاص اليود، مما يساعد في تحديد نوع الاضطراب (فرط أو قصور في نشاط الغدة).
  • MRI scan: (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) is used in some complex cases to detect any structural problems or to evaluate the gland.
  • Thyroid needle biopsy: A sample of gland tissue is taken for laboratory analysis if there is suspicion of the presence of tumors or abnormal nodes.

Thyroid treatment 

Hypothyroidism is not dangerous in itself, but neglecting the symptoms of thyroid diseases, as well as neglecting to treat them for a long time, can lead to serious health complications such as difficulty with balance, enlarged thyroid, and increased risk of heart disease due to high levels of harmful cholesterol. Treating the thyroid gland includes several options that depend on the type and severity of the problem, and the most important main methods of treatment include the following:

  • pharmaceuticalAntithyroid medications are used to reduce the production of thyroid hormones in cases of hyperactivity. Examples of these medications include methimazole and propylthiouracil. In cases of hypothyroidism, alternative thyroid hormones such as levothyroxine are prescribed to compensate for the hormone deficiency.
  • surgeryIn some cases, it may be necessary to perform surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland, especially if there are large nodules or cancer. Surgery is used in cases of hyperactivity that do not respond to other treatments.
  • Radioactive iodine: It is used to destroy part of the thyroid gland and reduce hormone production in cases of hyperactivity. Radioactive iodine is taken orally, and it works to reduce the size of the gland and its activity over time.

Signs of recovery from thyroid disorders include improvement in symptoms such as decreased fatigue and lethargy, restoration of normal weight, regular menstrual cycle and test results showing normal levels of thyroid hormones and improvement in general condition such as increased energy, improved sleep quality, and decreased anxiety and stress. 

FAQs

How are thyroid diseases diagnosed?

Diagnosis Symptoms of thyroid diseases This is done through clinical examination, blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels, and the use of radiation such as ultrasound to detect nodules or enlargement. These methods help determine the type of problem and direct appropriate treatment.

Can thyroid disease be cured?

Some thyroid diseases can be cured or effectively controlled. Treatment depends on the type of disease, whether it is hypothyroidism or hyperactivity. Treatment includes medications, surgery, or treatment with radioactive iodine. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment help improve the health condition significantly.

How does the thyroid affect weight?

The thyroid gland affects weight by regulating the metabolism process. In case of hyperactivity, the metabolic rate increases, leading to weight loss, while in the case of hypothyroidism, the metabolic rate decreases, leading to weight gain. The hormonal balance of the thyroid gland is necessary to maintain a healthy weight.

What treatments are available for hypothyroidism?

Treatments available for the thyroid gland include antithyroid medications to reduce hormone production, surgery to remove part or all of the gland in cases of large nodules or cancer, and treatment with radioactive iodine to reduce the size and activity of the gland in cases of hyperactivity. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment help improve health condition.

In conclusion, it appears Symptoms of thyroid diseases Variably, and they may overlap with the symptoms of many other conditions. It is important to recognize these early symptoms and consult doctors to conduct the necessary tests and provide appropriate treatment. With appropriate diagnosis and treatment, most thyroid disorders can be managed effectively, which helps individuals return to their normal lives and maintain their general health. We, through the medical team within Al-Mousa Hospital, can provide you with all accurate medical examinations and provide treatment that ensures that you get the best. Results. 

Sources and references:

American Thyroid Association

Healthline – Thyroid Disease

WebMD – Thyroid Disorders

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