If you have thyroid trouble, you’re not alone. The American Thyroid Association reports that as many as 20% of Americans have a thyroid problem, including about eight times as many women as men.
Both overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) and underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) affect the way your thyroid gland works. But the underlying causes of these two conditions are very different.
At Grassroots Healthcare, our team specializes in diagnosing thyroid problems as early as possible, tailoring treatment plans to each patient’s unique health history, symptoms, and other factors. If you have thyroid disease, here’s what could be causing it.
If you are asking what causes hyperthyroidism or hypo hypothyroidism you are in the right place. Before we get to the causes first we must understand the thyroid gland itself and the difference between the two diagnoses.
Understanding your thyroid gland
Your thyroid gland is a bowtie-shaped gland located in your neck, just below your voice box (larynx). The gland has two lobes that wrap around the curve of your neck.
Your thyroid produces and secretes hormones that play key roles in:
- Metabolism
- Body temperature regulation
- Blood pressure
- Heart rate
- Mood or energy level
Hyperthyroidism happens when the gland produces too many hormones, causing symptoms that include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Anxiety and irritability
- Problems sleeping
- Feeling flushed
- Sweating
- Heart palpitations
Hypothyroidism happens when the gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. When your thyroid hormone levels are low, your metabolism slows down. If you have hypothyroidism, you have symptoms like:
- Weight gain or trouble losing extra weight
- Fatigue
- Low mood or depression
- Slower heart rate
- Tenderness in your muscles
- Thinning hair
- Dry skin
- Constipation
- Sensitivity to cold
Thyroid disorders manifest differently depending on whether it is hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. As a result, these conditions have distinct underlying causes. By understanding the causes, we can better comprehend the complexities of thyroid problems.
Hypothyroidism Causes:
The most prevalent cause of hypothyroidism in the United States is an autoimmune disorder known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This condition prompts the immune system to attack the thyroid gland, resulting in a slowdown or cessation of thyroid hormone production.
Other less common causes of hypothyroidism include:
- Radiation therapy targeting the head or neck.
- Improper management or excessive treatment of hyperthyroidism.
- Certain medications, such as lithium.
- Pituitary gland disorders.
- Pregnancy.
- Inadequate dietary intake of iodine.
- Surgical removal of a portion of the thyroid gland, which can lead to decreased hormone production.
Customized Treatment for Thyroid Problems:
At Grassroots Healthcare in the Greater Tulsa Area, our experienced team employs advanced diagnostic techniques to determine the specific underlying cause of each patient’s thyroid problem. This personalized approach allows us to tailor treatment according to individual needs.
Depending on the type of thyroid issue and its root cause, treatment options may include dietary adjustments, nutritional supplements, or medications to restore balance to thyroid hormone levels. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address significant thyroid problems.
Diagnosing Thyroid Problems:
In many instances, thyroid problems can be identified through a simple blood test. If you are experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, we encourage you to schedule an appointment online or over the phone. Our medical professionals will evaluate your thyroid function and provide the necessary guidance and treatment.
By comprehending the causes behind thyroid problems, we gain valuable insight into the complexity of these conditions. Grassroots Healthcare is dedicated to delivering comprehensive care to patients in the Greater Tulsa Area, ensuring that every individual receives personalized treatment aligned with their unique needs. Take the first step toward managing your thyroid condition by seeking professional evaluation and guidance today.
