Recognizing the symptoms of thyroid disorders can be the first step toward diagnosis and treatment of these common issues.

The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of your neck, produces hormones that affect breathing, heart rate, digestion and body temperature. These systems speed up as thyroid hormone levels rise.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), while anyone can experience thyroid problems, they are most likely to occur in women or people over age 60. A family history of thyroid disorders also increases risk.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism affects 1 in 20 Americans over the age of 12. It occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones.

Symptoms include fatigue, depression, joint and muscle pain, intolerance of cold, slowed heart rate, constipation and weight gain. Hypothyroidism can lead to high cholesterol. Rarely, severe untreated hypothyroidism can cause myxedema, in which the body’s functions slow to a life-threatening point. Treatment of hypothyroidism usually involves taking a synthetic hormone.

Hashimoto’s Disease

Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that can cause hypothyroidism, though not all hypothyroidism is caused by Hashimoto’s. Women are more likely to develop Hashimoto’s disease, as are individuals who have other autoimmune disorders such as celiac disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome or Type 1 diabetes.

Hashimoto’s disease can lead to high cholesterol, heart disease and high blood pressure. Rarely, it can cause myxedema. Providers treat Hashimoto’s disease only when it causes hypothyroidism or, more rarely, hyperthyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism

Less common than hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces too much hormone. Symptoms include fatigue, nervousness or irritability, trouble sleeping, muscle weakness, heat intolerance or increased sweating, rapid and irregular heartbeat, weight loss and frequent bowel movements or diarrhea.

The irregular heartbeat associated with hyperthyroidism can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related problems. Hyperthyroidism can also cause thinning bones, osteoporosis, muscle problems and issues with the menstrual cycle and fertility.

Treatments are aimed at returning hormone levels to normal and depend on your age and what’s causing your hyperthyroidism.

Graves’ Disease

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism. Most cases of hyperthyroidism in the United States are caused by Graves’ disease. Untreated, Graves’ disease can cause all of the problems related to hyperthyroidism.

In addition, some people with Graves’ develop Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO). GO symptoms include bulging, puffy or gritty, irritated eyes; light sensitivity; pressure or pain in the eyes; and blurred or double vision. Rarely, people with Graves’ disease develop a condition that causes skin to become reddish and thick with a rough texture.

The condition is usually treated with medicines, radioiodine therapy or thyroid surgery. Healthcare providers can also recommend treatments to alleviate GO symptoms.

Thyroid Cancer

The thyroid gland can also be affected by cancer. Thyroid cancer usually has no symptoms, although it is sometimes first noticed as a lump in the neck. Most such lumps are harmless nodules, but it is best to see your healthcare provider if you notice a lump.

See your healthcare provider if you notice any symptoms of thyroid disease. Your provider can help you decide on the best course of action.

Source: National Institutes of Health, News in Health