Know the Signs of Thyroid Disease

The thyroid gland is something we might hear a lot about when it comes to our bodies, but maybe not one we understand all that well. This small-but-mighty, butterfly-shaped gland is a key part of the endocrine system, and sits in the front of the neck, producing and secreting hormones. Primarily, the thyroid gland plays a starring role in the body’s metabolism, growth and development. It helps regulate important body functions by releasing certain amounts of thyroid hormones (triiodothyronine or T3, tetraiodothyronine or T4, and calcitonin) into the bloodstream. Learn more about the key roles of the thyroid and common signs of types of thyroid disease and their treatments.

Common Types of Thyroid Disease

There are four general categories of thyroid disease. 

Hypothyroidism

This condition happens when the thyroid gland doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone resulting in an underactive thyroid. This common condition causes your metabolism to slow down. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

• Fatigue
• Dry skin
• Weight gain
• Sensitivity to cold
• Hoarse voice
• Weakness
• Thinning hair
• Constipation
• Slowed heart rate (bradycardia)
• Depression
• Achy muscles

Most cases of hypothyroidism are treatable with hormone replacement therapy, or augmenting your body’s production of the hormone the thyroid has stopped making. Make sure to talk with your doctor if you’re concerned you might be suffering from hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism

Alternatively, those suffering from hyperthyroidism have too much thyroid hormone, or an overactive thyroid. Graves disease, inflammation of the thyroid, noncancerous growths and taking too much thyroid hormone are the most common causes of hyperthyroidism. Symptoms include:

• Weight loss without trying
• Tachycardia or an elevated heartbeat
• Increased appetite
• Heart palpitations 
• Changes in bowel patterns
• Sweating
• Nervousness or anxiety
• Trembling in the hands and fingers
• Enlarged thyroid gland
• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue
• Thinning skin
• Fine, brittle hair

Hyperthyroidism is typically treated with antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, surgery to remove the thyroid gland or beta blockers. The cause of hyperthyroidism determines how long it will take to treat it. 

Thyroid Nodules and Goiter

Sometimes solid or fluid-filled lumps will form within the thyroid. These are called nodules and typically are not serious and don’t cause any symptoms, however, a small percentage of them can be cancerous. A goiter can present as both a diffuse goiter (smooth and uniformly enlarged) or as nodular goiter. It’s important to note that thyroid nodules are common. In fact, as many as one-third of women and one-fifth of men have small thyroid nodules. 

There are a variety of causes of thyroid nodules, including:

• Thyroid cysts
• Inflammatory nodules
• Colloid nodules (overgrowths of thyroid tissue)
• Thyroid cancer
• Hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules
• Multinodular goiter 

When nodules or a goiter become large enough, they can produce noticeable and concerning symptoms, including:

• Trouble swallowing
• Difficulty breathing 
• Coughing 
• Hoarseness
• Snoring
• A lump in the front of the neck
• Pressure or tightness in the throat
• Neck vein swelling

If you experience these symptoms, talk with your doctor. 

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is a growth of cells that starts in the thyroid and can grow slowly or be very aggressive. Fortunately, most thyroid cancers can be cured through treatment, which can include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and radioiodine therapy. Thyroid cancer affects nearly 53,000 Americans every year, with women being three times more likely to develop the disease versus men. 

The three most notable symptoms of thyroid cancer are:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Hoarseness or loss of voice
• Pressure or pain in the throat and neck

Doctors and scientists don’t know what causes the gene changes that result in most thyroid cancers. Some people who test positive for the inherited gene that is known to increase the risk of medullary thyroid cancer might consider thyroid surgery. For those who are diagnosed with thyroid cancer, working with your medical team to develop the appropriate course of action is the most effective way to reduce long-term cancer growth and risks. 

Risk Factors for Thyroid Disease

There are a variety of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors that can contribute to thyroid disease and cancer. These can include:

• Getting older
• Other autoimmune diseases
  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Celiac disease
  • Lupus
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Sjören’s syndrome
  • Pernicious anemia
  • Addison’s disease
• Family history
• Thyroid surgery
• Pregnancy
• Stress
• Smoking
• Radiation exposure
• Being female or assigned female at birth
• Taking medications high in iodine

When to See a Doctor

If you’re concerned you might suffer from thyroid dysfunction or are experiencing symptoms related to the thyroid, talk with your doctor. Medical providers typically use physical exams, blood tests and imaging tests such as ultrasounds to determine if you have a thyroid disorder. Early detection is a key factor in treating thyroid disease, so don’t hesitate to seek medical treatment if you feel it’s necessary. 

Thyroid disease that goes undiagnosed can lead to a variety of chronic health issues, including:

• Stroke
• Osteoporosis
• Atrial fibrillation
• Congestive heart failure or increased risk of heart disease
• Mood disorders
• Infertility
• Peripheral neuropathy

Establishing an annual wellness check-up with your primary care provider is an excellent way to stay on top of your thyroid health. 

Living with Thyroid Disease

While most thyroid disorders—and even most thyroid cancers—are treatable, they can require consistent medical management by both you and your doctor. Most people with thyroid disorders go on to live a normal, healthy life. Some lifestyle changes might play a factor in maintaining good thyroid health, such as diet, stress management, exercise, limiting smoking and alcohol consumption, sleep hygiene and proper hydration. Additionally, those suffering from long-term thyroid disorders can turn to support groups, patient advocacy groups and medical case workers. Talk with your doctor about available resources and the best path forward for you.

Conclusion

Thyroid health is an important factor in healthy mood, weight management and overall wellbeing. Discuss any concerning symptoms you have with your primary care provider and learn more about your family history to ensure proper thyroid function.