First of all, what is a thyroid?
Your thyroid is a gland located in the front of your neck, surrounding your windpipe. Its shape is a bit like a butterfly, but despite its appearance, it’s pretty powerful. This gland helps control your metabolism, and when your metabolism is out of whack, it can present a host of issues that affect your whole body.
In general, thyroid disease occurs when your thyroid cannot make the correct amount of hormones for your body. Thyroid disease can present itself as a variety of illnesses, the most common ones being hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.1
Data courtesy of Everyday Health 2
So, what’s the difference between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism?
Despite similar names, the impact on the body is quite different.
Let’s start with hypothyroidism.
What is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism, also known as an “underactive thyroid,” occurs when the thyroid doesn’t produce enough essential hormones. Initially, you may not notice any symptoms, but over time symptoms will appear, and it can cause many physical ailments if left untreated. Your doctor can test you to determine if a lack of hormones causes your symptoms.3
Hypothyroidism Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Chronic hoarse voice
- Dry skin
- Constipation
- Pale and/or puffy face
- Joint pain
- Muscle aches or weakness
- Thinning hair or hair loss
- Infertility
- Heavy or irregular periods
- Unexplained weight gain
- Cold intolerance
- Elevated blood cholesterol level
- Depression
- Impaired memory
- Goiter (lump at base of the throat) 4
What is Hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism, or “overactive thyroid,” swings the body into overdrive due to an overproduction of hormones. This illness can become serious if left untreated, but most respond well to treatment. 5
Hyperthyroidism Symptoms:
- Nervousness or anxiety
- Irritability
- Feeling hot and increased sweating
- Increased heart rate or hand tremors
- Difficulty sleeping
- Skin thinning
- Loose bowel movements
- Fine, brittle hair
- Muscle weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lighter, less frequent menstration
- Lack of energy and fatigue 6
How can I treat my thyroid condition?
After speaking with your doctor, they may refer you to an Endocrinologist who specializes in thyroid conditions. They will determine the best treatment depending on your illness. Both thyroid conditions have treatments to relieve symptoms; however, you should maintain close communication with your doctor and strict adherence to your prescription for best results.:
Levothyroxine
For hypothyroidism
More information >
Methimazole
For hyperthyroidism
More information >
There are many more ways to treat your condition, including diet and vitamin supplements. Your doctor can best determine what course of treatment is right for you. 7
Having a thyroid condition doesn’t need to stop you in your tracks.
You can work with GeniusRx to receive FDA-approved medications that relieve help you with your thyroid condition, all with fast local delivery to your home. Your body will thank you.
Contact us today or visit our website for more information.
Data and information from:
(1) Cleveland Clinic (2) Everyday Health (3) Everyday Health (4) Mayo Clinic
(5) Healthline (6) Mayo Clinic (7) Mayo Clinic
