Thyroid Disorders

Overview

Thyroid disorders occur when the small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck produces too much or too little of the thyroid hormone, which acts as the body's primary metabolic fuel controller. In India, thyroid issues are significantly common, affecting approximately one in ten adults, with a much higher prevalence among women. When your thyroid is out of balance, it impacts almost every part of your body, including your heart rate, body temperature, and how quickly you burn calories. Common conditions include Hypothyroidism (underactive), Hyperthyroidism (overactive), and Goiter (swelling). Ignoring these symptoms can lead to long-term health complications like heart problems or joint pain. At Sanjeevi Hospital in Sangareddy, we emphasize that thyroid disorders are highly manageable with the right medical guidance. Early detection through simple blood tests can restore your energy levels and overall well-being, allowing you to live a full, active life without the constant cloud of exhaustion or metabolic stress.

Symptoms to watch for

• Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight despite diet changes
• Feeling unusually tired, sluggish, or lacking physical energy
• Increased sensitivity to cold or heat compared to others
• Changes in heart rate, such as feeling like your heart is racing or beating too slowly
• Noticeable swelling in the front of the neck (Goiter)
• Dry skin, thinning hair, or brittle fingernails
• Irregular menstrual cycles or changes in flow for women
• Mood swings, anxiety, irritability, or feelings of depression
• Frequent constipation or changes in bowel movements

Causes & risk factors

• Iodine deficiency in the daily diet, which is historically significant in parts of India
• Autoimmune diseases where the body's immune system attacks thyroid cells
• Inflammation of the thyroid gland, often triggered by a viral infection
• Genetic factors and a family history of thyroid or endocrine disorders
• Nodules or non-cancerous lumps that develop within the thyroid gland
• Side effects from certain long-term medications or medical treatments
• Post-pregnancy changes in hormone levels (Postpartum Thyroiditis)
• Previous radiation therapy to the neck or head area

Diagnosis

• Thyroid Function Test (TFT) to measure TSH, T3, and T4 levels in the blood
• Thyroid Antibody Test to check for autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's
• Ultrasound of the neck to visualize the gland's structure and any nodules
• Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) for detailed testing of suspicious lumps
• Thyroid Scan using a small amount of radioactive tracer to assess gland activity
• Physical examination to check for swelling, skin texture, and reflex changes
• Review of family medical history and lifestyle symptoms

Treatment options

Prevention & self-care

• Ensure adequate intake of iodized salt in your daily cooking and meals
• Include selenium-rich foods like nuts, whole grains, and eggs in your diet
• Manage stress through regular exercise, yoga, or meditation to protect hormonal balance
• Get regular health check-ups if you have a family history of thyroid issues
• Avoid smoking, as tobacco contains toxins that can interfere with thyroid function
• Monitor neck changes regularly using a mirror while drinking water to spot early swelling
• Discuss thyroid health with your doctor during and after pregnancy
• Stay physically active to maintain a healthy metabolism and body weight