I. The thyroid

Knowing different diseases associated with the thyroid, one should understand know how the thyroid works. The thyroid gland is a small endocrine gland located in the lower part of the neck. As an endocrine gland, it secretes hormones to the bloodstream, the triiodothyronine, known as T3, and thyroxine, known as T4. These thyroid hormones regulate cellular activities of the body.

II. Thyroid Disease

There are several diseases connected to the thyroid gland. Some diseases include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer and thyroiditis.

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is underactive. As such, it loses its ability to produce normal levels of thyroid hormones used for bodily functions. Accordingly, one common cause of this disease is the Hashimoto disease, a condition where antibodies attacks the thyroid and eventually losing its ability to produce the needed hormones. With this thyroid disease, hair loss, fatigue and depression are common symptoms.

Hyperthyroidism is the opposite of hypothyroidism. It is the over activity of thyroid gland by producing too much of its hormones. Once common cause of this disease is the Grave’s disease where it targets the thyroid, causing it to hasten hormonal production. Weight loss with this thyroid disease is a symptom as well as gastrointestinal problems and weakening of the muscles and joints.

Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism is due to the so-called autoimmune thyroid disease or a condition where the body loses its ability to differentiate between organs, glands and tissues against pathogens or any bacteria.

Goiter is a condition where the thyroid grows bigger due to other diseases, nutritional deficiencies and hormonal imbalance. In some cases, cysts may develop on this area called as thyroid nodules that sometimes develop to thyroid cancer. Finally, thyroiditis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the thyroid gland due to infection caused by viruses.

III. Treatment for Thyroid Disease

Thyroid drugs are one essential part of thyroid disease treatment. There are available natural supplements that can be taken. For hyperthyroidism, anti thyroid drug medication and radioactive iodine therapy can be considered. Surgery is also possible most likely for thyroid cancer patients to avoid other organs to be affected.

More importantly, consult a doctor before trying any of these possible actions for thyroid disease.