Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders involve the dysfunction of the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating various metabolic processes in the body by producing thyroid hormones. Common thyroid disorders include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.

Hypothyroidism:

Cause:
• Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
• The most common cause is autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's thyroiditis), where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.
Symptoms:
• Fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, constipation, and muscle weakness.
Treatment:
• Hormone replacement therapy with synthetic thyroid hormones (levothyroxine) to restore normal hormone levels.