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What is Thyroid and what is the function of the Thyroid Gland?
The Thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland which is part of the endocrine system. It is located at the base of the neck below the center of your throat or Adam's apple (in men). Your thyroid gland is primarily responsible for regulating the metabolism, growth and development of your body by producing hormones such as Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4). These hormones produced by the Thyroid gland influence bodily functions including digestion, reproductive health, heart rate, muscle control, body temperature, mood and brain function.
Common Thyroid Diseases:
Normal functioning of the thyroid gland is crucial for your health and well being. Issues in thyroid function and any disruptions in hormone production of the thyroid gland can lead to thyroid diseases such as:
1. Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid:This occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including weight loss, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, heat intolerance, tremors, frequent bowel movements, diarrhea, and muscle weakness.
2. Hyperthyroidism or overactive thyroid:This occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. This can lead to symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, cold intolerance, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, depression, muscle aches, and joint pain.
3. Hashimoto's thyroiditis:an autoimmune disorder in which your immune system produces antibodies which attack your thyroid gland, destroying its ability to produce thyroid hormone.
4. Graves' disease:An autoimmune disorder that is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It occurs when the immune system attacks your thyroid gland, causing it to produce too much thyroid hormone
5. Thyroid cancer:A relatively rare form of cancer which occurs when cells in the thyroid gland grow abnormally and uncontrollably. There are several types of thyroid cancer such as Papillary thyroid carcinoma, Follicular thyroid carcinoma, Hürthle cell carcinoma and Medullary thyroid carcinoma. Prognosis and treatment for thyroid cancer depends on the type and stage of the cancer.
6. Goiter: It is an enlarged thyroid gland.
7. Thyroid nodules:These are lumps that form in the thyroid gland. Most thyroid nodules are benign (noncancerous), but some can be cancerous.
What Causes Thyroid Disease?
The reasons for thyroid disease vary significantly depending on the type of thyroid disease. Here's a breakdown of some key causes for the most common thyroid disorders including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer:
- Thyroiditis:Certain types of thyroiditis, like postpartum thyroiditis, can damage the gland and reduce hormone output, leading to hypothyroidism
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis:This autoimmune disorder gradually destroys thyroid tissue, leading to decreased hormone production. It is usually the cause of hypothyroidism in most people
- Autoimmune disorders:Autoimmune disorders such as Graves' disease can prompt the thyroid gland to produce excessive hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism
- Inflammation:Inflammation of the thyroid gland from other causes like viruses or infections, can cause temporary enlargement and impede hormone production
- Medications:Certain medications, especially those containing lithium or amiodarone, can interfere with thyroid function and contribute to goiter formation.
- Treatment for other thyroid conditions:Surgery or radioactive iodine ablation to treat hyperthyroidism can sometimes damage the gland enough to cause hypothyroidism.
- Iodine Deficiency:Though uncommon in developed nations, a severe lack of iodine in the diet can impede thyroid hormone production and lead to conditions like goiter.
- Excess iodine intake:While rare, excessive iodine intake from certain medications or supplements can trigger hyperthyroidism in some individuals
- Thyroid nodules:Overactive nodules within the gland can produce extra hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism.
- Stress:Stress can significantly worsen autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease.
- Genetic mutations:Genetic mutations in thyroid cells can trigger uncontrolled growth and cancer development.
- Radiation exposure:It can increase the risk of thyroid cancer
Common Symptoms of Thyroid Disease
The symptoms of thyroid disease can vary depending on the specific type and severity of the condition.
Hyperthyroidism or overactive thyroid symptoms include:
- Unexplained weight loss (despite increased appetite)
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Anxiety and irritability
- Nervousness and tremors
- Difficulty sleeping
- Heat intolerance and excessive sweating
- Diarrhea or frequent bowel movements
- Bulging eyes - could indicate Graves' disease
- Hair loss
- Menstrual irregularities (in women)
Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid symptoms include:
- Weight gain (even with normal diet & eating habits)
- Fatigue and low energy
- Trouble with sleeping
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
- Changes in cognitive function
- Feeling cold easily
- Dry skin and hair
- Muscle aches and stiffness
- Joint pain
- Depression and mood swings
- Constipation
- Heavy or irregular menstrual periods
- Slow heartbeat
- Hoarse voice
If you have any of the aforementioned thyroid symptoms, test yourself for hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and other thyroid disorders at the nearest Vijaya Diagnostic center.
How is Thyroid Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosing thyroid disease involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, various blood tests and imaging techniques to understand the specific type and severity of the condition.
Diagnostic Tests:
Blood investigations:
Common thyroid tests include:
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH):This test measures the levels of TSH, the hormone that regulates thyroid function. Low TSH indicates hyperthyroidism, while high TSH suggests hypothyroidism.
Free Thyroxine (FT4) Test:This blood test measures the level of free thyroxine, which is the active form of thyroid hormone. Abnormal levels may indicate thyroid dysfunction.
Total Thyroxine (T4) Test:This blood test measures the total amount of thyroxine in the blood, including both free and bound forms. It can help diagnose hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Free Triiodothyronine (FT3) Test:This blood test measures the level of free triiodothyronine, which is another thyroid hormone. Abnormal levels may indicate thyroid dysfunction.
Total triiodothyronine (T3) test:The Total T3 test measures the overall level of triiodothyronine (T3) hormone in the blood, including both the free (unbound) and bound forms.
Thyroid antibodies:This group of tests can help distinguish between autoimmune thyroid disorders like Graves' disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. The most common Thyroid antibodies test are:
- Anti Thyroglobulin Antibodies (ATG)
- Anti TPO Antibodies / Antimicrosomal Antibodies
- Thyroid Receptor Antibodies tests like Thyroid Stimulating Immunoglobulins (TSI) and Thyroid Blocking Immunoglobulins (TBI) & Anti-TSH Receptor Antibodies:
Calcitonin blood test:It can be used to diagnose thyroid cancers like medullary thyroid cancer and other rare thyroid disorders
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) BiopsyIf nodules are found on the thyroid gland, a biopsy may be performed to collect a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. This can help determine if the nodules are cancerous or benign.
Radiological investigations:
Thyroid Ultrasound:This imaging test utilizes sound waves to generate images of the thyroid gland, aiding in the detection of abnormalities such as nodules or thyroid gland enlargement.
Thyroid Scan:This imaging procedure employs radioactive iodine or technetium to produce images of the thyroid gland, enabling the assessment of its function and structure.
Doppler ultrasound:Doppler ultrasound of the thyroid is primarily used to evaluate thyroid nodules or abnormalities detected on regular ultrasound imaging. By assessing blood flow within the thyroid gland and thyroid nodules, Doppler ultrasound can provide additional information about the nature and characteristics of these nodules, helping to differentiate between benign and malignant (cancerous) lesions.
Radioactive Iodine Uptake (RAIU) Test:This test gauges the thyroid gland's absorption of radioactive iodine and assists in the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism and the evaluation of thyroid function.
Get yourself tested for thyroid disorders at Vijaya Diagnostics. Enjoy home sample collection for thyroid blood tests, instant appointment booking and exclusive discounts on our user-friendly app!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When should Thyroid screening be done?
Ans - If you're experiencing symptoms suggestive of thyroid dysfunction, such as unexplained weight changes, fatigue, heart rate changes, hair loss, bowel habit changes, or menstrual irregularities, it's advisable to undergo thyroid testing.
2. What are all the tests that detect Thyroid Dysfunction?
Ans - Thyroid blood tests, including Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Free Thyroxine (FT4), and Total or Free Triiodothyronine (T3), are effective in detecting early thyroid dysfunction. Abnormalities in these tests may indicate conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Early detection and management of thyroid dysfunction with medication or other interventions can prevent the progression of thyroid disease and associated complications.
3. How to identify autoimmune thyroid disorders?
Ans - Thyroid antibody tests, such as Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPOAb) and Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TgAb), aid in diagnosing autoimmune thyroid disorders like Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease. Early detection facilitates timely treatment initiation to manage symptoms and prevent further thyroid gland damage.
4. Can early thyroid blood investigations prevent Surgery or cancer?
Ans - Yes, early thyroid blood investigations play a pivotal role in preventing thyroid disease progression, thereby reducing the necessity for surgery or cancer treatment. Regular monitoring and timely intervention based on test results help maintain thyroid health and avert complications.
5. How to monitor recurrence of Thyroid Cancer?
Ans - For individuals previously treated for thyroid cancer, regular monitoring of Thyroglobulin (Tg) levels in the blood is essential for detecting cancer recurrence early. Elevated Tg levels may indicate residual or recurrent thyroid cancer, necessitating further evaluation and treatment to prevent disease advancement.
6. Can surgical interventions be prevented?
Ans - Early detection and management of thyroid disorders, including autoimmune conditions, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer, can often circumvent the need for surgical intervention. Addressing thyroid abnormalities promptly with medication, lifestyle changes, or alternative treatments may delay or eliminate the need for surgery, thereby reducing surgical risks and enhancing patient outcomes.
7. Are there different types of thyroid removal surgery?
Ans - Yes, there are different types of thyroid removal surgery, depending on the extent of the thyroid tissue needing removal. Some of the main types are
- Total Thyroidectomy - entire thyroid gland is removed
- Completion Thyroidectomy - performed after a partial thyroidectomy if the need arises
- Partial Thyroidectomy including:
- Hemithyroidectomy - only one lobe or half of the gland is removed.
- Subtotal thyroidectomy - a small part of one lobe is left intact.
- Isthmectomy - Only the narrow strip of tissue connecting the two lobes (isthmus) is removed
8. How long does it take to recover from thyroid surgery (thyroidectomy)?
Ans - Recovery from thyroid surgery varies significantly depending on the reason behind the surgery and the type of surgery. You would be expected to stay at the hospital for 1 or 2 days in most cases. After minor surgeries, most people return to normalcy within 3 or 4 weeks and recover completely in 2 or months. In case of complex procedures, you might need more time to recover. Please talk to your doctor for personalized advice.
9. Can thyroid issues make me lose my hair?
Ans - Yes, thyroid issues like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can lead to hair loss,
10. Should I exercise if I have a thyroid disease?
Ans - Exercise is generally beneficial for people with thyroid disease as it can strengthen your muscles and improve symptoms & cardiovascular health. It is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity. Please consult your doctor first to check if exercise is safe for you and understand what types of exercises would be most beneficial for you.
11. How does the thyroid affect the body?
Ans - Thyroid plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions by producing hormones. Some of the bodily functions include:
- Metabolism
- Growth and development
- Reproductive health
- Muscle and nerve function
- Cognitive function