Thyroid disorders, which some people refer to as thyroid disease, are conditions that affect the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck that produces the thyroid hormones T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (tri-iodothyronine). It also makes calcitonin, which is a hormone important for managing calcium levels in the blood. Thyroid disorders cause the gland to produce either too little or too much thyroid. Examples include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, thyroid cancer, and thyroiditis.
Is thyroid disease hereditary?
Thyroid disorders may be genetic in some cases. According to a 2018 report, family and twin studies identified a strong genetic component to the development of thyroid disease. For example, Graves' disease, which can cause hyperthyroidism, was more common in identical twins than fraternal twins. If a person with a family member with thyroid disease has concerns about the condition, it is best to contact a doctor for advice. The doctor can assess a person's risk of thyroid problems, and they may order tests, such as blood tests.
What are the symptoms of thyroid disease?
Symptoms of thyroid disease depend on the type of thyroid disorder. For example, symptoms of hypothyroidism can include feeling cold, muscle weakness, muscle pain, weight gain, tiredness, pale skin, and depression. Hyperthyroidism can cause symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heart rate, nervousness, irritability, sweating, feeling hot, and trouble sleeping. For certain thyroid conditions, symptoms may include swelling in the front of the neck, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing.
Is thyroid disease autoimmune-related?
Some thyroid diseases are autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune conditions that affect the thyroid include Hashimoto thyroiditis and Graves' disease. Hashimoto thyroiditis, a type of autoimmune condition, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States. Rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes may occur alongside thyroiditis, which suggests that there might be a link between them.
