Thyroid Problems

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that is in front of the windpipe. It makes hormones that help convert food to energy. It regulates growth and fertility. It also maintains body temperature.

Signs & Symptoms

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. Body functions slow down. Signs and symptoms are:

• Fatigue. Sleeping too much.

• Depression.

• Dry, pale skin. Dry hair that tends to fall out.

• The voice deepens.

• Weight gain for no reason.

• Feeling cold often.

• Heavy and/or irregular menstrual periods in females.

• Poor memory.

• Constipation.

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid makes too much thyroid hormone. Body functions speed up. Two common forms are Graves’ disease and multinodular goiter. Signs and symptoms are:

• Swelling in the front of the neck. The thyroid gland gets larger. This is called goiter.

• One or both eyes bulge. Tremors. Feeling nervous.

• Mood swings.

• Weakness.

• Frequent bowel movements.

• Heat intolerance.

• Shortened menstrual periods in females.

• Weight loss for no reason.

• Fine hair or hair loss.

• Rapid pulse. Heart palpitations.

{Note: In elderly persons, symptoms for this can be more like ones for hypothyroidism.}

For Hypothyroidism

• Immune system problems.

• Removal of the thyroid gland.

• Treating the thyroid gland with radioactive iodine for hyperthyroidism.

• Too much or too little iodine in the diet.

Risk factors for hypothyroidism include: A family history of the disease; having diabetes; and taking certain medicines, such as lithium.

For Hyperthyroidism

• Immune system problems.

• Family history of the illness.

• Taking too much thyroid hormones from pills.

• Medical care is needed for thyroid problems.

• Hypothyroidism is treated with iodine and/or thyroid medicine.

• Hyperthyroidism treatment varies. It includes radioactive iodine, medication, and surgery, if needed.

• Some treatments result in the need to continue to take thyroid medicine.

• Follow-up care is needed for both of these thyroid problems.

• Take medication as directed.

• Tell your doctor if symptoms come back or still bother you.

• Follow your doctor’s advice for self-care measures.

Neck Check

To see if you have a lump on your thyroid gland or if it is enlarged, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists recommends this quick self-test:

1. Tilt your chin up slightly and swallow a glass of water in front of a mirror.

2. Look at your neck as you swallow.

3. Check for any bulges or protrusions between your Adam’s apple and collarbone. If you see any, contact your doctor.