What happens when the thyroid works too much or too little?

The thyroid gland secretes vital hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. However, over or under functioning of this gland can cause various health problems. When the thyroid gland is not fully functioning, many symptoms can occur; problems such as fatigue, shortness of breath, hair loss can negatively affect quality of life. In this blog post, we will look in detail at what happens in the body when the thyroid gland is under or overactive.

What happens if the thyroid gland is underactive?

When the thyroid gland cannot produce enough hormones, a condition called hypothyroidism develops. This leads to slower metabolic activities and a lower basal metabolism. Initially unrecognized, hypothyroidism manifests itself with many symptoms over time.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism:

• Fatigue and weakness: Since the body cannot produce enough energy, the person feels tired and sluggish all the time.
• Memory Loss: Slowdown in mental activities and forgetfulness may occur.
• Muscle Weakness and Fatigue: Muscle weakness is felt.
• Intolerance to Cold: Intolerance to cold increases, the person feels cold all the time.
• Hair Loss and Broken Nails: Hypothyroidism causes hair loss and weakened nails.
• Weight Increase: As metabolism slows down, the person gains weight.
• Hoarseness of Voice and Dry Skin: The vocal cords and skin are also affected; the voice becomes hoarse and the skin becomes dry.
• Tongue Enlargement: This rare symptom can lead to speech and swallowing difficulties.
• Menstrual Irregularities and Sexual Unwillingness: In women, the menstrual cycle may be disrupted and both sexes may experience sexual aversion.

The definitive diagnosis of hypothyroidism is made by a doctor through physical examination and blood tests. Treatment is usually with hormone medication.

What happens when the thyroid gland works too hard?

When the thyroid gland is overactive, a disease called hyperthyroidism occurs. In this case, too much thyroid hormone is secreted into the bloodstream. Hyperthyroidism is 10 times more common in women aged 20-40 than in men. The body’s metabolism speeds up and the person has a constant high level of energy. A quarter of cases of hyperthyroidism are caused by Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disease.

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism:

• Irritability and High Blood Pressure: People with hyperthyroidism often feel irritable and restless. Blood pressure rises.
• Fast Heartbeat: The pulse quickens and heart palpitations are felt.
• Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss: Fast metabolism causes loss of appetite and rapid weight loss.
• Eye Problems: Symptoms such as swollen eyelids, red eyes and double vision may occur.
• Sleep Problems: Difficulty falling asleep and insomnia.
• Changes in Menstrual Cycle: Menstrual irregularities are observed in women.

Smoking is an important factor that increases the risk of hyperthyroidism. The diagnosis is made by a doctor’s examination and laboratory tests. Treatment may include medications, radioactive iodine therapy or, in rare cases, surgical intervention.

Conclusion

The thyroid gland is an important organ that controls the body’s energy balance and metabolic rate. Under- or overactive thyroid gland can seriously affect quality of life. For this reason, it is important to consult a doctor and have the necessary tests done in case of any suspicion about your thyroid function. With early diagnosis and treatment, these problems can be controlled and quality of life can be improved.