Thyroid
Situated at the front of your neck beneath the skin, your thyroid gland resembles a small butterfly. As a crucial component of the endocrine system, it regulates numerous essential bodily functions by producing and releasing specific hormones.
One of its primary roles is overseeing the pace of your metabolism, the process by which your body converts food into energy. Since all cells in your body rely on energy for operation, any dysfunction in the thyroid can have widespread effects throughout your entire body.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism comprise:
- Perspiration
- Irregular heartbeat
- Weight loss
- Bulging eyes
- Restlessness
Symptoms of hypothyroidism encompass:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Depressive symptoms
- Abnormal bone growth
- Reduced stature
In infants with hypothyroidism, signs may include lethargy, poor appetite, and prolonged sleep.Initial indications of thyroid issues may involve alterations in:
- Sensitivity to temperature changes
- Menstrual patterns
- Energy levels or emotional state
- Body weight
For pain associated with an inflamed thyroid, acetaminophen or aspirin are suitable over-the-counter options. However, aspirin isn’t recommended for individuals under 19 due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome. If over-the-counter medications prove ineffective, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs like dexamethasone or prednisone for a short duration.
Treatment for hyperthyroidism typically involves:
- Radioactive iodine therapy
- Antithyroid medication
- Surgery
In radioactive iodine treatment, you’ll ingest a tablet or liquid containing radioactive iodine to disrupt thyroid cell function, reducing hormone production. Multiple treatments may be necessary to normalize hormone levels, but this can sometimes lead to hypothyroidism.
With antithyroid medications, symptom relief usually occurs within 6-8 weeks, with ongoing medication required for approximately a year. Subsequent to this period, your doctor will assess whether discontinuation is appropriate, with regular checkups to ensure hormonal balance.
Surgery is generally reserved for specific situations such as pregnancy (when antithyroid medication isn’t an option) or the presence of a large goiter or cancerous nodule.