Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid gland

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) — hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, digestion, mood, and energy. Thyroid function is controlled by the pituitary gland through thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). A blood test measuring TSH is the most sensitive way to detect thyroid dysfunction.

Thyroid disorders are significantly more common in women — women are 5–10 times more likely to develop a thyroid condition than men. They become increasingly common with age.

Types of thyroid disorder

• Hypothyroidism — underactive thyroid; the most common type; causes fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and low mood
• Hyperthyroidism — overactive thyroid; causes weight loss, palpitations, anxiety, and heat intolerance
• Hashimoto's thyroiditis — autoimmune destruction of the thyroid, the leading cause of hypothyroidism
• Graves' disease — autoimmune stimulation of the thyroid, the leading cause of hyperthyroidism
• Thyroid nodules — lumps in the thyroid gland, most benign but requiring assessment
• Goitre — enlargement of the thyroid gland; can occur in both overactive and underactive conditions
• Thyroid cancer — uncommon; most types are highly curable when detected early

Symptoms to watch for

Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)

• Persistent fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance
• Low mood, brain fog, and slowed thinking
• Dry skin, hair thinning, and constipation

Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)

• Weight loss despite good appetite, palpitations, and tremor
• Anxiety, heat intolerance, and excessive sweating
• Visible neck swelling or eye changes (in Graves' disease)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if you have persistent unexplained fatigue, weight changes, mood disturbance, or palpitations — all of which can be caused by thyroid dysfunction. A TSH blood test takes minutes and provides a definitive answer. Anyone already on thyroid medication should have their levels checked at least annually.

Treatment options

• Levothyroxine — for hypothyroidism; a once-daily tablet that replaces the missing thyroid hormone; symptoms typically resolve within weeks
• Antithyroid medication (carbimazole) — for hyperthyroidism; reduces thyroid hormone production
• Radioiodine — a targeted treatment for hyperthyroidism that permanently reduces thyroid activity
• Thyroid surgery — for goitre, thyroid cancer, or severe hyperthyroidism
• Regular monitoring — TSH tests at least annually for all people on thyroid medication

How eMedClinic can help

Our endocrinologists arrange thyroid function testing, diagnose and manage both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, prescribe and monitor thyroid medication, and arrange ultrasound or specialist referral for nodules or structural thyroid issues. We provide seamless continuity of thyroid care for expats who have moved abroad.