Thyroid Diseases
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped structure in the front of the neck that produces two key hormones — thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) — which regulate metabolism, energy production, heart rate, body temperature, growth, and development. Thyroid disorders are among the most common endocrine conditions encountered in clinical practice, affecting women considerably more often than men.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism — underactive thyroid — results from insufficient production of thyroid hormones. The most common cause in iodine-sufficient countries is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Other causes include previous thyroid surgery or radioiodine treatment, certain medications (particularly lithium and amiodarone), and iodine deficiency. Symptoms develop gradually and are often non-specific: fatigue, weight gain despite unchanged diet, feeling cold, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, low mood, cognitive slowing, and heavy or irregular periods. Treatment is straightforward and highly effective — daily levothyroxine (a synthetic T4) replaces the missing hormone.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism — overactive thyroid — involves excess production of thyroid hormones. The most common cause is Graves' disease, another autoimmune condition in which stimulating antibodies drive continuous thyroid hormone production. Toxic multinodular goitre and a single toxic adenoma (autonomously functioning nodule) are other causes. Symptoms include weight loss despite a good or increased appetite, heat intolerance, sweating, palpitations, tremor, anxiety, insomnia, diarrhoea, and — specific to Graves' disease — eye changes (Graves' ophthalmopathy, causing prominence, dryness, or double vision). Treatment options include antithyroid drugs (carbimazole or propylthiouracil), radioiodine therapy, and thyroid surgery.
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