Thyroid Problems

What is the thyroid gland?

The thyroid gland is a gland at the base of the neck.

The thyroid gland produces hormones that help control many metabolic processes in the body, such as heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and weight.

What are thyroid problems?

Thyroid diseases can range from an enlarged gland that does not require treatment to life-threatening cancer The most common thyroid problems are related to abnormal thyroid hormone production. Too much thyroid hormone leads to a condition known as hyperthyroidism. Insufficient hormone production leads to hypothyroidism. Although the consequences can be unpleasant or uncomfortable, most thyroid problems can be well treated if properly diagnosed and treated. Even if a person is diagnosed with thyroid cancer, it is not a death sentence. This cancer is considered curable and is generally responsive to therapy. Treatment in Switzerland can help address many thyroid problems. Immediate consultation with an endocrinologist when problems are present is crucial for maintaining health.

What types of thyroid problems exist?

The main types of thyroid gland diseases include:

• Hyperthyroidism - when the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone. The most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are anxiety or nervousness, heat intolerance, rapid heartbeat, fatigue, and weight loss, even if you eat the same amount of food. Hyperthyroidism is sometimes called thyrotoxicosis.
• Hypothyroidism - when the thyroid gland is underactive and does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism can persist for years without showing any signs. When symptoms do appear, they can be quite diverse and may include fatigue, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, poor memory, and depression.
• Thyroid cancer - when some thyroid gland cells become cancerous. Thyroid cancer is more common in women than in men and is usually diagnosed in people over the age of 50. It is typically treatable.

Other thyroid problems include nodules that grow in the thyroid gland, inflamed thyroid glands, and an enlarged thyroid gland. These conditions can lead to either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism

Since the thyroid gland plays a crucial role in controlling many body functions, its malfunction can lead to serious health problems. If you suspect you may have a thyroid problem, it is important to consult a doctor.

Blood Tests

Your doctor can diagnose hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism by checking the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood. The tests measure the hormones produced by the thyroid gland itself, as well as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), a chemical released by the pituitary gland that triggers the thyroid gland's activity.

In hypothyroidism, you have a higher TSH level because your body is trying to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more hormones. In hyperthyroidism, it's the opposite: the TSH level is below normal, and the thyroid hormone levels are high.

One unusual type of thyroid cancer can be diagnosed with a blood test that measures the level of calcitonin hormone, which is necessary for bone building.