What is the thyroid?
The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck, just below the center of your throat. As part of the endocrine system, it forms part of an intricate network of glands. The endocrine system coordinates a large number of our body’s functions. Hormones produced by the thyroid gland control metabolism.
The term thyroid disease refers to a condition that affects the thyroid’s ability to produce the right amounts of hormones. Hormones produced by the thyroid keep our body functioning normally.
Thyroid disorders can affect anyone — men, women, infants, teenagers, and the elderly. The disease can range from a small, harmless goiter (enlarged gland) to a life-threatening form of cancer.
Who are at risk of developing thyroid disease?
- People with a history (runs in the family) of thyroid disease.
- Individuals with medical conditions such as pernicious anemia, type 1 diabetes, primary adrenal insufficiency, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, and Turner syndrome).
- People who take medication high in iodine (amiodarone).
- Women over 60 years old.
- Patients who were treated for thyroid cancer or thyroid conditions in the past (thyroidectomy or radiation)
2 Main types of thyroid disease
Causes of Hypothyroidism
- Hashimoto’s disease – is the most common cause of hypothyroidism
- Thyroiditis – inflammation of the thyroid
- Radioactive iodine treatment
- In-born or congenital hypothyroidism
- Full or partial surgical removal of the thyroid
- Iodine deficiency
- Some medications
Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Constipation
- Trouble tolerating cold
- Heavy or irregular menstrual periods | Fertility problems
- Decreased sweating
- Slowed heart rate
- Elevated blood cholesterol
- Dry skin
- Dry, thinning hair
- Impaired memory
- Muscle weakness | Muscle stiffness, aches, and tenderness
- Pain and stiffness in your joints
Hypothyroidism Diagnosis
- Physical exam
- Medical and family history
- TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) test
- T4 test
- T3 test
- Thyroid antibody tests
Treatment options for hypothyroidism
- BIOIDENTICAL THYROID REPLACEMENT THERAPY (BHRT) – For patients with thyroid gland disorders, BHRT helps maintain thyroid hormone levels.
- IODINE SUPPLEMENTS – Iodine is essential for the thyroid to function correctly.
- PREVENTION – People with a high risk of thyroid problems may be tested for the early signs of the condition.
- SPECIAL DIET RECOMMENDATIONS – For people with hypothyroidism, there are many healthy food choices, such as eggs, meat, fish, fruits and vegetables, gluten-free grains and seeds, all dairy products, and non-caffeinated beverages.
- SUPPLEMENTS – People with hypothyroidism may benefit most from iodine, selenium, and zinc supplements. You should, however, avoid iodine and selenium supplements unless your healthcare provider recommends them.
- LIFESTYLE CHANGES – Dr. Truc Nguyen, MD, IFMCP of Conscious Medicine, GA, recommends changing one’s lifestyle. “Go engage in exercise, get enough sleep, reduce daily stress, do deep breathing exercises, nurture personal relations, and practice self-care.”
Hyperthyroidism
Causes of Hyperthyroidism
- Graves’ disease
- Overactive thyroid nodules
- Inflammation of the thyroid gland called Thyroiditis
- Overconsumption of iodine which is found in some medication
- Too much thyroid hormone medicine
- A noncancerous tumor of the pituitary gland
- A large amount of T4 is in the blood.
- Tumors: Benign and cancerous tumors can cause the thyroid gland to produce too much hormone in the thyroid gland.
- Pituitary gland disorders: The pituitary gland regulates the thyroid gland. If it is not functioning correctly, it can cause the thyroid gland to produce too much hormone.
Symptoms
- Experiencing anxiety, irritability, and nervousness
- Hyperactivity – having a lot of nervous energy
- Rapid or irregular heart rate (arrhythmia) | Heart palpitations
- Heat intolerance or sweating
- Shaking of the hands, weakness of the muscle | Tremors
- Mood swings
- Having trouble sleeping | Insomnia
- Weight loss
- Increased appetite
- Frequent bowel movements | Diarrhea
- Persistent thirst
- Having an enlarged thyroid gland or a goiter
Hyperthyroidism Diagnosis
- Testing the T4, free T4, and T3 levels
- Testing the Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
- Thyroid scan
- Thyroid ultrasound
- CT or MRI scans
Treatment options for hyperthyroidism
- MEDICATION – Medication that inhibits thyroid hormone production or anti-thyroid medication
- RADIOACTIVE IODINE – Usually taken orally as a tablet or in liquid form, which effectively destroys the cells that produce the thyroid hormones without harming the other tissues of the body
- SURGERY or THYROIDECTOMY – the procedure of removing the whole or partial thyroid gland
- HYPERTHYROIDISM DIET – Certain foods can keep your thyroid healthy and reduce some of its harmful effects. A balanced thyroid function requires minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients. Usually, a low-iodine diet is prescribed before radiation therapy.
If you suffer from hypothyroidism, here are some supplements you might find helpful:
DFH Thyroid Synergy – A unique formula offers nutritional support for healthy thyroid function and hormone balance.
Thyroid Support Complex – A comprehensive thyroid support formula that contains vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts to nourish and support healthy thyroid cell metabolism and thyroid hormone function.
*Please check with your healthcare provider before taking these.
What are the similarities between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism?
- Both conditions impact the thyroid gland and its hormones
- Both can result from autoimmune diseases or hormonal imbalances
- Both can be treated with medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery
What is the difference between hypothyroidism from hyperthyroidism?
Hormone levels are the most common difference between the two diseases. The production of hormones decreases with hypothyroidism, while it increases with hyperthyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can be distinguished by how active or inactive the thyroid gland is. Hyperthyroidism is triggered by Graves’ disease, while Hashimoto’s disease provokes hypothyroidism.
The two thyroid disorders may both be caused by autoimmune diseases.
What are the chances of going from hypothyroidism to hyperthyroidism?
Hypothyroidism vs hyperthyroidism, which is worse?
Neither is better, and both can result in death in the most severe cases. Hypothyroidism, on the other hand, is five times more common than hyperthyroidism.
Hypothyroidism can cause heart disease and myxedema coma in severe cases, both of which can be fatal.
Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are both severe medical conditions. Knowing the difference between the two is crucial to getting the right treatment. If you think you may have hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, you may book a consultation with our functional medicine practitioner.
A Final Thought: Take Charge of Your Thyroid Health
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are two different conditions that can greatly impact the function of the thyroid gland. It is important to understand the differences between these two conditions in order to receive an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
With proper medical attention, both conditions can be managed effectively. We hope that this blog has provided a comprehensive overview of hypothyroidism vs hyperthyroidism, and has emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention for thyroid disorders. If you experience any symptoms of thyroid disorder, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible.
FAQ’s
How do you know if you have hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism?
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Hyperthyroidism = “Too fast.” Symptoms include weight loss, anxiety, fast heartbeat, sweating, and feeling jittery.
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Hypothyroidism = “Too slow.” Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, feeling cold, and low mood.
Is high TSH hypo or hyper?
High TSH = Hypothyroidism. (Your brain is pushing the thyroid to work harder because it’s underactive.)
What is usually the first symptom of hypothyroidism?
The most common early symptom is constant fatigue, like you’re tired no matter how much you sleep.
Which is easier to treat: hypothyroid or hyperthyroid?
Generally, hypothyroidism is easier to treat — you simply replace the missing hormone with a daily pill.
Which is more life-threatening: hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism?
Both can be serious, but hyperthyroidism tends to become life-threatening faster (thyroid storm).
Severe untreated hypothyroidism can also be dangerous (myxedema coma), but it usually develops slowly.
Why is hypothyroidism so hard to diagnose?
Because its symptoms — fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, mood changes — are common and easily mistaken for stress, aging, or lifestyle issues.
It often creeps in slowly, so people don’t notice the changes right away.