The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland which is situated at the base of your neck. A part of the endocrine system, it performs many vital functions to keep your body in good health. Some of these functions include maintaining body metabolism, heart health, and reproductive function. The thyroid performs these functions through its two main hormones—triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Unfortunately, thyroid disease has become rampant in the world today. The reasons for this outbreak range from sedentary lifestyles to modern, processed meals and genetic factors. This leaves us with a pressing need to better understand the two main types of thyroid disorders—hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a disease that is caused by an overactive thyroid gland. This overactivity leads to an excess secretion of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Causes of hyperthyroidism
Hyperactivity in the thyroid gland may arise due to any one of the following reasons:

• Graves’ disease
• Abnormal secretion of TSH
• Excessive consumption of iodine
• Thyroiditis or an inflammation of the thyroid

Symptoms
The excessive secretion of TSH leads to the speeding up of many bodily functions. The effects show up in the form of symptoms such as the following:

• Sudden weight loss
• Unexplained anxiety
• Insomnia
• Diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome
• Excessive sweating
• Abnormally rapid heartbeat
• Intolerance to hot temperatures
• Hair loss
• Increased acidity
• Irregular menstruation

Diagnosis and treatment
Blood tests that show high levels of T4 and low levels of TSH indicate a case of hyperthyroidism. In some cases, a thyroid scan is recommended. Its treatment includes anti-thyroid prescription medicines that will inhibit excess hormone secretion. Also, oral consumption of radioactive iodine can also be suggested. In some cases, beta blockers are prescribed to help normalize rapid heart rate.

Hypothyroidism
The exact opposite of hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism indicates a slow thyroid function. In this type of thyroid disease, the thyroid gland does not secrete sufficient levels of its hormones, thus hampering the metabolism.

Causes of hypothyroidism
A slowed down thyroid function may occur due to one of the following causes:

• Hashimoto’s disease
• Surgical removal of the thyroid gland
• Treatment for hyperthyroidism
• Radiation therapy for diseases, such as leukemia

Symptoms
A slow thyroid causes many dependent functions in the body to slow down. As such, some of the symptoms of hypothyroidism include the following:

• A reduced metabolism and subsequent weight gain
• Lethargy and fatigue
• Constipation
• Intolerance for cold temperatures
• Dull skin
• A slowed down heart rate
• Irregular menstruation or an absence of menstruation
• Joint pain and muscle weakness
• Depression and mood swings
• Hair loss

Diagnosis and treatment
In order to diagnose a case of hypothyroidism, you may be asked to undergo certain blood tests to check the level of thyroid hormones. Low levels of T4 and high levels of TSH indicate an underactive thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism is extremely common among women going through menopause and as such, they are advised to go for an annual thyroid examination without fail. The standard treatment for hypothyroidism comprises an intake of synthetic thyroid hormone, Levothyroxine. This is taken orally and helps balance hormone levels in the body as well as provides relief from the symptoms of thyroid disease.

It is important to remember that thyroid diseases are usually lifelong conditions that may only be successfully controlled but never cured. Therefore, in addition to taking the prescribed medicines, you must also maintain a healthy lifestyle. Skip processed foods like refined flour, sugars, and frozen microwaveable dinners in favor of meals cooked with organic ingredients. Make sure you exercise daily and take some time out to de-stress. These small steps work wonders in building immunity and in complementing your process of recovery from thyroid disease.