Differences Between Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism

The purpose of this article is educate you about the differences between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Although the names appear almost identical, they are actually opposites of each other and can result in different signs and symptoms.

Before discussing the major difference between Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism, we will help to clarify quickly what the thyroid gland is and what it really does.

The thyroid is among the key endocrine glands in the body. It is found in the respiratory tract region at approximately shoulder height. It is structured a bit like a butterfly with its wings extended. It regulates how quick the body uses energy and the body’s level of responsiveness to certain hormones. It also coordinates the metabolic process and specific metabolic functions. It makes proteins and influences expansion.

The majority thyroid gland conditions or disorders could be genetically associated, or could be the result of specific situational causes like pregnancy. Both thyroid disorders are extremely treatable particularly if diagnosed in the early stages.

Perhaps the simplest way to understand the meanings of Hyperthyroidism vs. Hypothyroidism is to examine the first part of the words. A lot of people fully understand the meaning of the word hyper. Hyperactivity signifies a very high level of activity. As a result, Hyperthyroidism implies that the thyroid is operating at a level where it is considered over active. This means the thyroid gland is generating more hormones than usual. This can have an effect on respiration, absorption and many other key operations in the body, so when hormones turn out to be unbalanced, it can be a dangerous problem.

What Is Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a medical condition where the thyroid gland releases an excessive amount of the thyroid hormone making the metabolic process speed up beyond normal rates.

What are the factors that cause hyperthyroidism?

There are numerous causative reasons for hyperthyroidism. The most popular cause is an autoimmune disorder known as Graves’ disease.

What is Graves’ disease?

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder and the most widespread cause of hyperthyroidism. It develops when the defense mechanisms in the body take over the brain’s pituitary gland which usually controls the thyroid glands hormone formation. The antibody associated with Graves’ disease is termed thyrotropin receptor antibody or TRAb. TRAb. If this outweighs the pituitary gland it can trigger excessive generation of thyroid hormone which results in hyperthyroidism.

A few other causes are:

• Excessive iodine
• Thyroiditis or thyroid gland swelling
• Benign growths in the thyroid or perhaps pituitary gland
• Excessive thyroid hormone
• Reproductive gland cancer
• Grave’s disease – An autoimmune health issue where one’s defense mechanisms strike the thyroid gland itself.

Listed below are some common symptoms of hyperthyroidism:

• Lack of concentration
• Anxiety, despair, with brain fog or lack of psychological comprehension
• Fatigue
• Mood swings
• Rapid cardiovascular system speed
• Shaking palms
• Changes in bowel practices, especially diarrhea, stomach swelling
• Hair loss
• Increased sensitivity to heat
• Skin flushing and irritation
• Weight loss
• Irregularity in menstrual periods and flow

Hyperthyroidism – medical diagnosis and therapy

Medical examination and blood tests are performed to diagnose hyperthyroidism and other thyroid issues.

Here some different treatments for hyperthyroidism:

• Beta-blockers – For indication regulation.
• Radioactive iodine – This is the most used treatment that aims to damage a part of the thyroid gland. This treatment is not as harmful as it seems and will not  harm the other glands.
• Anti-thyroid drugs – These work best for those individuals with minor signs and symptoms.
• Surgery – Surgery is usually used in treatment as a last resort.

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition wherein the thyroid gland is unable to manufacture an adequate amount of the thyroid hormone causing metabolic process to function at a reduced speed.. This disorder is the complete opposite of hyperthyroidism. It is also referred to as under-active thyroid.

The most common contributing factor is thyroid gland swelling and Hashimoto’s disease. These viral and autoimmune conditions end up doing serious damage to the thyroid gland cells. Listed below are some other causes:

• Congenital Disabilities
• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• Radiation procedures
• Thyroid gland elimination
• Viral thyroiditis

The following are some of the indications of hypothyroidism:

• Constipation
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Dry skin
• Brittle hair and fingernails or toenails
• Weight gain
• Lapses in memory

Diagnosis and Treatment

The medical diagnosis for hypothyroidism is similar to that hyperthyroidism. On the other hand, the treatment methods are the exact opposite. The most common medication is taking a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone. Physicians usually recommend levothyroxine.

Summary

Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are both conditions that affect the thyroid gland. Although their names are similar and they both refer to thyroid imbalance, they are opposites as hypothyroidism is caused by an under active thyroid and hyperthyroidism is caused by an over active thyroid. While these diseases both cause unpleasant symptoms, they are treatable and manageable. If you suspect you may have a thyroid issue, it is advisable that you go to your physician to find out the best treatment options for you.

What do you think?