The thyroid is a gland located in your neck that helps regulate many of your body's most vital functions. If your thyroid becomes overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism), you can develop a range of health problems. Once diagnosed, most thyroid problems can usually be treated effectively, often with the support of a specialist such as a thyroid surgeon West Yorkshire when surgery is required. Some thyroid problems can be prevented by making sure that you have enough iodine in your diet.

What are thyroid problems?

There are several conditions that can affect your thyroid gland. The thyroid gland makes hormones that help control many of your body's metabolic processes, such as:

• heart rate

• blood pressure

• body temperature

• weight

The thyroid is found in your neck, near the base of your throat. Your thyroid gland plays an important role in controlling many of your body's functions. You can develop serious health problems if your thyroid does not work as it should.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurs when your thyroid is overactive and makes too much thyroid hormone.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism are:

• feeling anxious or nervous

• being unable to tolerate heat

• having heart palpitations

• losing weight, even if you're eating the same amount of food

The effect of too much thyroid hormone on your body is sometimes called 'thyrotoxicosis'. Some thyroid problems cause a goitre (enlarged thyroid).

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid is underactive and doesn't make enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms of hypothyroidism can be quite varied. They can include:

• fatigue (tiredness)

• being unable to tolerate the cold

• constipation (difficulty passing stool)

• dry skin

• weight gain

• poor memory or concentration problems

• depression

What causes thyroid problems?

Problems with the thyroid can be caused by:

• iodine deficiency

• autoimmune diseases — when your immune system attacks your thyroid — such as Graves' disease or Hashimoto's disease

• inflammation (thyroiditis), which may or may not cause pain

• nodules, or non-cancerous lumps

• thyroid cancer

certain medical treatments — including radiation therapy, thyroid surgery, and some medicines

Sometimes, pregnancy can cause your thyroid problems to start or get worse. If left untreated, this can cause problems for you and your baby, such as:

• miscarriage

• premature birth

• low birth weight

• problems with your baby's brain development

If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about your chance of having a thyroid disorder.

How is the cause of thyroid problems diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and will examine you. Your doctor may suggest you have blood tests. In some cases, they may recommend a nuclear medicine scan or an ultrasound scan of your thyroid. They may refer you to a specialist, such as an endocrinologist, for further tests and treatments.

When should I see my doctor?

If you think you may have a thyroid problem, it's important to see your doctor.

See your doctor if you have:

• Symptoms of an overactive thyroid

• Symptoms of an underactive thyroid

• a lump or swelling in your neck

• concerns about your risk of thyroid problems during pregnancy

• When to seek urgent care

• Thyroid storm is a life-threatening emergency that needs urgent medical attention.

Symptoms of thyroid storm can include:

• fever

• rapid heart rate

• vomiting

• delirium

A severe excess of thyroid hormone causes thyroid storm. Myxoedema coma needs urgent medical attention. Myxoedema coma is a life-threatening condition caused by untreated, severe hypothyroidism. It causes:

• drowsiness that can lead to unconsciousness

• slow breathing

• low body temperature

• Myxoedema is rare.

How are thyroid problems treated?

The treatment of your thyroid problems will depend on the cause.

• Self-care at home

• If you have hyperthyroidism with thyroid nodules, this may be caused by too much iodine. You may be advised to avoid iodine in your diet when possible.

• Medicines for thyroid problems

• Some thyroid conditions are treated with thyroid medicines.

• Graves’ disease needs treatment with anti-thyroid medicine for 12 to 18 months.

If you have primary hypothyroidism, you will usually need to take levothyroxine (thyroxine) tablets. You may need to take these tablets for the rest of your life. You may need to consider surgery if anti-thyroid medicine or radioactive iodine treatment does not work for you.

What are the complications of thyroid problems?

If you have a thyroid problem that’s not treated properly, serious health complications can result. An enlarged thyroid, or goitre, may cause problems with swallowing and breathing. Graves' disease can cause eye, skin, and bone problems.

An overactive thyroid can lead to problems, including:

• heart problems, such as rapid heart rate, problems with your heart rhythm (such as atrial fibrillation), or heart failure

• loss of bone density (osteoporosis)

An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can cause complications such as:

• high cholesterol

• high blood pressure

• heart problems

Conclusion

Thyroid problems can impact numerous vital bodily functions, but with early diagnosis and proper treatment, most individuals can effectively manage their condition. Understanding the symptoms of both overactive and underactive thyroid disorders can help you seek medical advice at the right time. If you notice any symptoms or changes in your neck, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional or search for an ENT specialist near me to receive expert guidance, an accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment for your thyroid health.