🩺 The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the lower part of the neck that produces hormones which helps the body use energy, stay warm, and govern metabolism while keeping the brain, heart, muscles, and other organs working as they should.
“Thyroid disfunction such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism may lead to serious cardiovascular and neurological issues if left untreated,” says Mohammed Al Tameemi, MD, an endocrinologist at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. “Thankfully, these issues can often be treated and managed when detected early, which is why it’s important to discuss changes in your health and behavior with a medical provider.”
Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are more commonly found in women and cause an enlarged thyroid that makes your neck look swollen. Both types may be caused by autoimmune diseases and include similar symptoms such as fatigue, depression, changes in mood and energy levels, irregular menstrual cycles, and joint and muscle pain. So, what’s the difference between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland overproduces the thyroid hormone. Symptoms may include:
◻️ Increased sweating and hot flashes
◻️ Racing heart, arrhythmia, high blood pressure
◻️ Hand tremors, fragile fingernails
◻️ Insomnia
◻️ Weight loss despite normal/increased appetite, increased bowel movements/diarrhea
◻️ Hair loss
◻️ Change in energy levels
◻️ Pain/swelling/bulging of the eyes
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland underproduces the thyroid hormone. Symptoms may include:
◻️ Sensitivity to cold
◻️ Slowed heart rate
◻️ Pain, numbness, tingling sensation in the hands and fingers
◻️ Fatigue, lethargy
◻️ Weight gain, constipation
◻️ Dry skin
◻️ Thinning hair, brittle nails
◻️ Sexual dysfunction, loss of libido
👨⚕️ What’s similar between these two conditions is that both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism may cause serious health issues. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described above, it may be time to speak with your primary care provider.
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