The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck below the Adam's apple. The thyroid's job is to produce thyroid hormones that help regulate growth, development, metabolism, and other important bodily functions. Thyroid disorders occur when the thyroid produces too much or too little of these essential hormones, causing widespread effects in the body. Some common thyroid disorders include:
- Hypothyroidism: This is when the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, hair loss, and depression. It's most often caused by Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune disorder.
- Hyperthyroidism: This is when too much thyroid hormone circulates in the body. Symptoms can include unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, tremors, and nervousness. Common causes are Graves' disease and thyroid nodules.
- Thyroid nodules: These are lumps that develop inside the thyroid. Most are noncancerous, but some may secrete thyroid hormones, causing hyperthyroidism.
- Thyroid cancer: This is a fairly uncommon cancer that develops in the thyroid. Symptoms can include a lump, swelling, pain, and changes in voice.
- Hypothyroidism is treated with oral medication to replace thyroid hormone, usually levothyroxine. With medication, most people can manage their hypothyroidism.
- Hyperthyroidism has several treatment options including antithyroid medication, radioactive iodine, and thyroid surgery. The best option depends on the cause and severity of hyperthyroidism.
- Thyroid nodules may require biopsy or imaging tests to check for cancer. Most noncancerous nodules simply require monitoring.
- Thyroid cancer treatment typically involves surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid, followed by thyroid hormone replacement medication.