There are two major thyroid gland problems that we have to consider. These are hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is characterized by an anomaly in the regulatory pathways that results to the over-production of thyroid hormones. On the other hand, hypothyroidism is characterized by defects in the same regulatory pathways of the thyroid glands that give rise to lower amount of thyroid hormone.
Hypothyroidism is caused by the damage to the thyroid tissue or removal of the thyroid tissue to treat hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism can also be triggered by anti-thyroid antibodies which are very common in people who are afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, diabetes, Siogren syndrome and chronic hepatitis. Congenital issues may also have a direct contribution to hypothyroidism. This problem can easily be detected by subjecting the baby to a newborn screening for thyroid problem.
Conditions of hyperthyroidism can be directly associated with the abnormal triggering of the thyroid gland by the TSI which is present in the blood system. The over-stimulation of the thyroid gland by the TSI will result to the development of goiter. There are also some cases where the gland abnormally produces thyroid hormones with the triggering action of the TSI. In these conditions, there is the production of thyroid hormones which results to what is called in medical parlance as hyperthyroid state. Further, a tumor in the pituitary gland can also cause the independent production of TSH which will also result to the heightened stimulation of the thyroid gland.
Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include loss of appetite, gain in weight, drying of the skin, excessive hair loss, intellectual disability, bulging in the eye region, and depression. Infants with suspect hypothyroidism problem will exhibit constipation, lack of appetite, jaundice condition and stunted growth.
On the other hand, individuals who have hyperthyroidism problem will exhibit symptoms such as lack of sleep, nervousness and hand tremors, hot flashes even during cold weather condition, increased bowel movement, excessive pain in the joints, enlarged eyes, shortness of breath, chest pains and weakness in the thigh and shoulder muscles.
There are several medications that can be used to address these two medical conditions. The medications that are used to manage and treat hyperthyroidism include Beta-blockers, propylthiouracil, Methinazole and Iodide. On the other hand, the medications used for the management and treatment of hypothyroidism include L-thyroxine, L-triiodothyronine and thyroid extract. In extreme cases, surgery is resorted to in order to resolve hyperthyroidism. The procedure involves the surgical removal of the thyroid tissue.