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Thyroid Diseases
What is the thyroid and why should I worry about it?
What are the different types of thyroid disease?
How are thyroid problems treated?
The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that takes up iodine from
the body to produce hormones that help control the body's metabolism,
and regulate how quickly the body should work and use energy. About 20
million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, including many who
may not be aware of their condition. It is more common in women than
men.
Hypothyroidism is the most common
form of thyroid disease. It occurs when the thyroid does not produce
enough thyroid hormone-causing the body use energy more slowly than it
should. Symptoms may include feeling sluggish, cold, depressed,
forgetful, experiencing dry hair and skin, constipation, and increased
menstrual flow. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease in
which the body attacks the thyroid and keeps it from producing enough
thyroid hormone. It is the most common form of hypothyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the
thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone and makes the body use more
energy than it should. Symptoms may include nervousness, irritability,
shaky hands, increased perspiration, warm skin, thinning hair, weight
loss, decreased menstruation, eye changes, and weak leg muscles.
Grave's disease is the most common form
of hyperthyroidism. It is an autoimmune condition in which the body
produces antibodies that overstimulate the thyroid gland, so that it
produces too much thyroid hormone.
Postpartum thyroiditis is a swelling of the thyroid that occurs in
5%-7% of women who give birth, and can cause temporarily high levels of
thyroid hormone.
Thyroid cancer
Most thyroid cancers grow very slowly and can be effectively treated.
Although anyone can get thyroid cancer, people who as children received
head or neck x-ray treatments for tonsillitis or other conditions
(generally from the 1920s to 1960s) are more at risk.
Thyroid disease is generally easily and safely treated with
medication alone or with surgery and medication. It is important to
monitor thyroid levels regularly with your doctor.
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