Types of thyroid disorders
There are many types of thyroid disorders that can cause irregular thyroid hormone production and other related problems. Health problems occur when there is either too little or too much hormone production; when lumps or nodules form within the gland; when the gland enlarges, causing compression on structures around the gland; or when cancerous lumps or nodules develop within the gland.
The primary causes of thyroid diseases include:
- Too much or too little dietary iodine
- Exposure to radiation
- An excessive amount of isoflavone-intensive soy foods, including soy powders or soy protein
- Specific medications such as the heart medication amiodarone or lithium
- Surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid gland, which can cause hypothyroidism (underproduction of thyroid hormone) if a proper treatment plan is not followed
- Treatments for hyperthyroidism, such as Graves disease, can cause a patient to experience hypothyroidism. It is, therefore, important for patients to follow through with the treatment plans advised by a throat specialist.
Symptoms of thyroid disease include:
- Enlargement of the neck
- Irregular bowel movements
- Changes in the hair or skin
- Menstrual irregularities in women
- Mood disturbance with depression and/or anxiety
- High cholesterol or unusually-low cholesterol
- Fatigue or unexplained weight changes
- Cold or heat intolerance
If you are experiencing unusual symptoms, it is important to set up an appointment with a throat specialist in Sydney so that a professional assessment can be made. Your doctor will be able to determine any underlying causes of your symptoms and will recommend the most suitable treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms.
If you have any questions about thyroid disease or thyroid or parathyroid surgery, you should speak to your local doctor, who will arrange to contact your thyroid surgeon.
