The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck. It produces thyroid hormones that control metabolism — the rate at which the body burns energy. These hormones affect the function of the heart, the nervous system, body temperature, weight and mood. When the gland malfunctions, whether by working too much or too little, it can cause a wide range of symptoms throughout the body.
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
This occurs when the thyroid produces too much hormone, causing the metabolism to run abnormally fast. Common symptoms include:
- Palpitations, a rapid heartbeat, or an irregular heartbeat
- Weight loss despite eating normally or even more than usual
- Trembling hands, sweating easily, feeling hot, and being unable to tolerate hot weather
- Irritability, insomnia, fatigue, and possibly bulging eyes or a goitre
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
This occurs when the gland produces less hormone than the body needs, slowing the metabolism down. The symptoms usually develop gradually, sometimes making them hard to notice.
- Fatigue, sluggishness, excessive sleepiness, and lack of energy
- Gaining weight easily, even without eating more
- Feeling cold, being unable to tolerate cold weather, dry skin, and hair loss
- Constipation, reduced memory or concentration, and possibly a depressed mood
Easy to check with a blood test
The symptoms of thyroid disease often resemble other conditions and can be misunderstood. The accurate test is a blood test to check thyroid hormone levels and TSH, which clearly shows whether the gland is overactive or underactive. If you have suspicious symptoms, a single blood test can give you the answer and help plan your care.
Testing and treatment
When thyroid disease is suspected, the doctor will take a history, examine the neck, and draw blood to check hormone levels. In some cases, further tests may be ordered, such as a thyroid ultrasound, to look at the gland and any nodules that may be present. Treatment varies according to the type and cause, and should be under a doctor's care.
- Hyperthyroidism is usually treated with medication, and other methods as the doctor considers appropriate
- Hypothyroidism is usually treated with thyroid hormone replacement
- Take medication exactly as prescribed; do not adjust the dose or stop on your own
- Have follow-up blood tests for hormone levels at your appointments, to fine-tune treatment
- Watch for changes in your symptoms, and tell your doctor about anything unusual
At Doctor Chat Clinic, care is provided by a doctor. We offer health checks, blood tests for thyroid hormone levels, and symptom follow-up, helping to assess and diagnose thyroid conditions and plan care that suits each individual.
Warning signs that need urgent medical care
- Severe palpitations, an abnormally fast heartbeat, chest pain, or difficulty breathing
- A lump in the neck that is growing quickly, difficulty swallowing, or an unusually hoarse voice
- Severe fatigue, drowsiness, confusion, or symptoms that worsen rapidly
- High fever and severe palpitations with unusual agitation in someone with hyperthyroidism