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What are the Different Types of Thyroid Disorders?

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

The thyroid is a small gland in the throat that functions as part of the endocrine system. When correctly functioning, the thyroid gland controls metabolism and works in concert with other hormone-producing glands to ensure the correct balance of hormones in the body. Most thyroid disorders are the result of a malfunctioning gland that produces too much, or too little, of the thyroid hormones. Thyroid disorders can be a lifelong condition that requires a careful diet and often medication in order to keep side effects in check.

Hyperthyroidism is one of two main thyroid disorders. People with this condition produce an excess of thyroid hormones, resulting in an extremely high metabolism. This condition can lead to difficulty gaining weight or receiving correct nutrition, as well as other symptoms. People with hyperthyroidism often experience a speeding heart rate, increased sensation of heat, anxiety problems, and sleep disorders.

A malignant or benign mass can cause thyroid disorders.
A malignant or benign mass can cause thyroid disorders.

Hyperthyroidism is sometimes a result of a disorder known as Graves' disease. People suffering from this condition have an enlarged thyroid gland, called a goiter. Graves' disease can also cause eye and vision problems and noticeable thickening of the skin. Other thyroid disorders that result in hyperthyroidism include benign or malignant tumors or glandular tumors. It can also occur if thyroid hormone dosage is set too high.

Weight gain may be a symptom of hypothyroidism.
Weight gain may be a symptom of hypothyroidism.

Thyroid disorders on the opposite end of the spectrum are characterized by hypothyroidism or a very low level of hormone production. The slowing of the metabolism associated with these types of thyroid disorders makes it extremely difficult to lose weight. Symptoms may also include exhaustion, unexplained muscle pains or stiffness, and heavy menstrual periods. Hypothyroidism is often caused by an autoimmune disease called Hashimoto thyroiditis, in which the body does not recognize glandular tissue as benign and attacks it, slowing down thyroid production. Other causes can include some cancer therapies such as radiation, birth defects, or an incorrect dosage of hyperthyroid medication.

Hyperthyroidism is sometimes a result of a disorder known as Graves' disease.
Hyperthyroidism is sometimes a result of a disorder known as Graves' disease.

Testing for thyroid disorders is extremely important if a person is experiencing chronic symptoms that fit either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Many doctors will perform a basic test called thyroid-stimulating hormone or TSH. For people that have severe thyroid disorders, this may be enough to diagnose. However, many experts insist that the TSH is not accurate enough, as people with slight imbalances can still experience serious symptoms of thyroid disorders. If a TSH test returns a low-normal or high-normal result, some experts say that patients should insist upon a full slate of more sensitive tests to better diagnose the problem.

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a WiseGEEK writer.

Learn more...
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a WiseGEEK writer.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Lostnfound

I also have Hashimoto's. The doctor found it when I had to have a nodule on my thyroid removed. He took the whole right lobe, so I'm going on half a thyroid gland. I never knew I had the disorder.

It's been no fun getting my levels back to normal since the surgery, either. You kind of have to sneak up on it, and you have to have your levels tested every three months or so, and have the medication levels adjusted accordingly. So far, I've only had my meds increased, not decreased. I'm betting I could take 200 mcg of the stuff every day and that wouldn't be enough. I think I need more of the hormone than most people do, or something. I don't know. I know it's frustrating.

Grivusangel

Well, my doctor never mentioned that birth control pills could cause Hashimoto's thyroiditis, although I suspect in my case, it's hereditary.

Still and all, if given the choice between going back to having the awful periods I had before I got on birth control pills and not having Hashimoto's, I'll take the thyroid disorder. There's no way I could deal with the beast periods again. They were absolutely awful and wiped out a week of my life every month. I'd rather take a thyroid pill every day for my low thyroid condition than go back to the horrific cramps and heavy flow.

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    • A malignant or benign mass can cause thyroid disorders.
      By: Alexander Raths
      A malignant or benign mass can cause thyroid disorders.
    • Weight gain may be a symptom of hypothyroidism.
      By: PeJo
      Weight gain may be a symptom of hypothyroidism.
    • Hyperthyroidism is sometimes a result of a disorder known as Graves' disease.
      By: reineg
      Hyperthyroidism is sometimes a result of a disorder known as Graves' disease.
    • Hyperthyroidism is one of two main thyroid disorders.
      By: lom123
      Hyperthyroidism is one of two main thyroid disorders.
    • A malfunctioning thyroid is usually first detected by a physical exam of the thyroid gland.
      By: Photographee.eu
      A malfunctioning thyroid is usually first detected by a physical exam of the thyroid gland.