health Post

Frequently asked questions about hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is one of the most common health conditions that affects millions of people across the world. Luckily, it is also a condition that responds well to timely intervention and treatment. How is hypothyroidism different from hyperthyroidism? Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism result from a dysfunction of the thyroid gland. In hyperthyroidism, on account of the overstimulation of the thyroid gland, the body produces more thyroid hormone than necessary. As a result, people with hyperthyroidism may experience difficulties in falling asleep, heightened anxiety and restlessness, volatile emotions, irritability, heightened sensitivity to heat, and sudden and rapid weight loss. In contrast, hypothyroidism occurs on account of the underproduction of thyroid hormone. Due to this condition, a person’s metabolism slows down, leading to symptoms like rapid weight gain, lethargy, heaviness, extreme fatigue and tiredness, increased intolerance of cold temperatures, and so on. Is it possible for someone to experience symptoms of both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism? While hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism usually lead to extremely different symptoms, a condition called thyroiditis may lead a patient to experience shifts between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Thyroiditis is an infection of the thyroid gland that may be classified into sub-acute thyroiditis and silent thyroiditis. Sub-acute thyroiditis is caused by viral infection, and silent thyroiditis is usually the result of an autoimmune response.