Thyroid diseases include hypothyroidism resulting from under-work of the thyroid, hyperthyroidism caused by over-work, enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter), thyroid inflammation, nodules and thyroid cancers. The thyroid is a two-lobe gland on the front of the neck, above the adam’s diamond, weighing an average of 25 grams. It produces hormones called thyroid hormones. These hormones play a role in many events in the body, from growth and development to metabolism, from the sleep cycle to heart function.
The main symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, excessive fatigue, drowsiness and lack of attention, tendency to gain weight and menstrual irregularities.
Thyroid diseases that cause hyperthyroidism cause symptoms such as excessive sweating, palpitations, anxiety, hot flashes and increased appetite.
Thyroid nodules may have hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. There may be signs of both conditions or nodules that remain completely silent without any symptoms.