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Thyroid Gland Disorders

By Robyn Koumourou, 2000

 

Is your thyroid gland the culprit? How many times have you heard these words stated:

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  • 'It's psychosomatic, it's all in your head'

  • 'It's Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, there's nothing much you can do about it'

  • 'You're just suffering from stress and anxiety'

  • 'It's in your genes, learn to live with it'

  • 'Just snap out of it and get on with your life'

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I'm sure you've heard these types of statements many times, from well meaning friends, relatives and even doctors. It can be very discouraging when those around you do not understand your physical and mental suffering. You may wish that they could live inside your body for just one day, and experience the symptoms you have to deal with constantly. However, it does come as a relief when you do find a doctor or person, who understands, to a degree, or shares similar experiences.

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I have found that in Australia, in particular, the average person knows little about thyroid disorders and their detrimental affects upon health. Moreover, it has been difficult for some patients to find a doctor who is willing to test thoroughly, to make a diagnosis, and then explain their condition clearly.

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There are many diseases and illnesses that have similar symptoms and it can be difficult for a doctor to make a quick diagnosis. It is therefore important to have a thyroid function test to rule out any possibility of thyroid abnormalities. Thyroid disorders can produce a multitude of symptoms that can affect any or every part of the body.

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Thyroid Gland

 

The thyroid gland is an Endocrine (meaning ductless) gland, which secretes its hormones directly into the bloodstream. It is located in the lower part of your neck. It wraps around your windpipe (trachea) like a bow tie, with two connecting lobes, and is well supplied with blood vessels.

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Thyroid Hormones
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The thyroid gland contains cells that secrete chemical substances called hormones. The main two hormones made by the thyroid gland are called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), with T4 being produced in much greater quantities than T3.

Triiodothyronine, T3, however, is the primary active hormone that stimulates cellular metabolic activities. T4 is much less active and while it does produce a limited effect, most of the T4 must be converted to T3 before it can be used by the body. This conversion takes place in particular target organs (primarily the liver, kidneys and pituitary gland), and is extremely important for the overall functioning of the body.

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Thyroid hormones act like chemical messengers and deliver instructions to various tissues and target organs via the bloodstream. The cells within these organs then use these thyroid hormones and respond by speeding up or slowing down their activities. Overall, the thyroid gland is responsible for the speed and efficiency of all metabolic and chemical processes in our bodies, by affecting every cell, tissue, organ and organ system. The thyroid gland is therefore essential for life, growth and development.

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Thyroid hormones regulate body temperature and circulation, appetite, energy levels, growth, skeletal development, muscle tone and agility, cardiac rate (force and output), fluid balance, blood sugar levels, central nervous system function, bowel function, blood fat (cholesterol) levels, and the regulation of fat, carbohydrate and protein metabolism in all cells.

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The amount of T3 and T4 produced by the thyroid gland is controlled by the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. It does this by secreting Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). When the levels of T4 and T3 fall, the pituitary secretes more TSH. When T4 and T3 levels rise, the pituitary secretes less TSH. Normally this complicated production and control system ensures that the body has just the right amount of T3 and T4 in circulation, but it can go wrong.

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Abnormal Function
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When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone (becoming overactive), the condition is called Hyperthyroidism. When the thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone (becoming underactive), the condition is called Hypothyroidism.

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The most common cause of Hyperthyroidism is an autoimmune condition called Graves' Disease. With Graves' Disease the body produces antibodies which behave like TSH and stimulate the thyroid gland uncontrollably, to make too much thyroid hormone.

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The most common cause of Hypothyroidism is also an autoimmune condition, called Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. With Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, white blood cells invade the thyroid gland and attack substances and tissue considered 'foreign', and the immune system produces antibodies which interfere with the production of the thyroid hormones. This results in the destruction of functioning cells and thyroid hormone levels decline. 

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With some individuals there can be a malfunction at the cellular level, where the cells of the body do not respond to or utilise thyroid hormones correctly. The receptor sites in cells may be resistant to thyroid hormones and the chemical messages may not be received. The successful transport and conversion of T4 into T3 may also be hindered within the cells, and the body is then starved of sufficient amounts of active T3. These problems with T4 to T3 conversion and thyroid hormone resistance are uncommon, and therefore, can be easily overlooked or misdiagnosed.

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Another uncommon problem relates to the pituitary gland. It can malfunction and produce too much or too little TSH. This has a direct impact on thyroid function and the amount of T4 and T3 produced, as well as, affecting other hormone secreting glands.

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Thyroid related illnesses have a variety of causes, and sometimes the problem is not with the thyroid gland itself. Whatever the cause, abnormal physical and mental symptoms will appear, which can range from mild to severe.

Hyperthyroidism
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The type of complaints that characterise Hyperthyroidism - an overactive thyroid gland:

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COMMON

  • Palpitations, fast pulse and irregular heartbeat

  • Trembling and twitches

  • Heat intolerance

  • Hot flushes and increased sweating

  • Increased appetite (or loss of appetite)

  • Weight loss (especially if eating well)

  • Diarrhoea

  • Anxiety, nervousness and/or panic attacks

  • Restlessness

  • Irritability

  • Thin, moist skin

  • Soft, thinning hair

  • Shortness of breath

  • Muscle weakness

  • Insomnia

  • Enlarged thyroid gland

  • Eye complaints (especially gritty or bulging eyes)

  • Fatigue, exhaustion and lack of energy

  • Menstrual cycle disturbances (intermittent and light)

  • Infertility

  • Depression and mood swings

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LESS COMMON

  • Bowel disorders

  • Brittle nails

  • Chest pain

  • Cramps

  • Decreased libido

  • Easy bruising

  • Hair loss

  • Headaches and migraines

  • Sore throat

  • Swelling of legs

Not everyone has all of these symptoms. You may relate to only a few of the above conditions, or you may relate to many of them. Everyone is different.

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Hypothyroidism
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Hypothyroidism has been called the "unsuspected illness" and one that is frequently misdiagnosed. The manifestations that characterize Hypothyroidism - an underactive thyroid gland:

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COMMON

  • Weight gain

  • Chronic constipation

  • Feeling cold (especially hands and feet) even on warm days

  • Low basal temperature

  • Fatigue, exhaustion and low energy (even after 12 hours sleep)

  • Slow reflexes

  • Slow, weak pulse

  • Slowness of thought processes (brain fog)

  • Indecisiveness

  • Poor memory and concentration

  • Sluggishness

  • Muscle weakness

  • Pain and stiffness in muscles or joints

  • Deepening, hoarse voice

  • Depression, mood swings and severe PMS

  • Thick, dry, coarse skin

  • Creviced, cracking skin on heels, elbows and knee caps

  • Enlarged thyroid gland

  • Lump in throat (hard to swallow)

  • High cholesterol

  • Menstrual cycle irregularities (prolonged and heavy)

  • Infertility

  • Numbness and tingling (especially in hands and face)

  • Fluid retention (swelling of face and feet)

  • Brittle hair and nails

  • Hair loss

  • Shortness of breath on exertion

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LESS COMMON

  • Allergies

  • Back pain

  • Blood pressure problems

  • Breast tenderness

  • Irregular heartbeat

  • Chest pain

  • Digestive disturbances

  • Dizziness

  • Dry eyes and mouth

  • Headaches and migraines

  • Irritability

  • Pale skin

  • Palpitations

  • Reduced libido

  • Skin rashes

  • Sore throat

  • Stiff neck and shoulders

  • Thinning eye brows

  • Visual disturbances

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Once again, not everyone has identical symptoms, and the severity and length of time will differ from one person to another. A person suffering from either an overactive or underactive thyroid gland may find that coping from day to day is extremely difficult. The pressure on bodily functions will continue to increase unless appropriate treatment is given. A thyroid function test should be performed, measuring the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood, and this should be assessed in relation to clinical presentation.

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Thyroid Function Test
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Immunoassay techniques for diagnosing thyroid disorders measure the amount of circulating hormones in the blood very accurately.

A Thyroid Function Test (TFT) generally consists of the following:

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      Hormone           Range

      TSH                      0.30 - 5.00 mIU/L

      Free T4                11 - 23 pmol/L

      Free T3                3.5 - 6.7 pmol/L

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Normal reference ranges have been developed for the various hormone levels. These may differ slightly depending on the laboratory's assay methods (methods of analysis). Any blood test results that show hormone levels outside of these ranges usually indicate a thyroid problem.

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Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
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Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is generally a good indicator of thyroid function, and is considered the most important hormone to be initially tested, due to the fact that it is the first hormone to change within the bloodstream when thyroid hormone production is altered.  TSH, produced by the pituitary gland, is therefore the first hormone assessed when suspecting a thyroid disorder.

If the TSH level is abnormal, or if a person presents with significant symptoms, a far clearer picture of thyroid function is required, and T4 and T3 levels must also be tested to obtain a correct diagnosis. People with a diagnosed thyroid condition must also ensure that their T4 and T3 levels are routinely tested along with their TSH level. If the diagnosis is unclear, with blood test results near the outer limits of the normal range, it would be wise to have a thyroid antibody test. This would indicate whether thyroid gland function is being compromised, especially if classic thyroid symptoms are present.

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Communication
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When it comes to thyroid conditions, it is extremely important to find a doctor (or specialist) with a good understanding of thyroid conditions, and who is willing to work with you, and vice versa. Communication needs to be open and honest and you should feel comfortable in asking questions concerning your condition. It is also important to know and understand your thyroid function tests, and you should feel confident in asking your doctor for copies of your lab results. This will help both you and your doctor monitor and manage your blood levels and symptoms.

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Treatment
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It is definitely worth researching and understanding your thyroid disorder before making a decision on treatment. Your doctor will explain the most appropriate treatment protocols with regard to your condition, taking into consideration the severity, length and type of thyroid problem you are experiencing. Educating yourself is always beneficial so you can make a fully informed decision once you understand the various options available.

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Successfully treating and recovering from thyroid related illnesses does take time. Dedication from both the patient and doctor is needed. Medications, procedures, nutritional support and supplements will usually be required to increase or decrease the levels of thyroid hormones in circulation. Hypothyroid patients will generally be given dietary advice and supplementation to improve thyroid function and cellular metabolism. Thyroid hormone replacement medication, T4 (thyroxine) and/or T3 (Tertroxin), may also be prescribed, in tablet or capsule form, if required. This will restore the amount of thyroid hormones in the body to normal. Hyperthyroid patients, depending on the severity, may be given anti-thyroid medication, or require radioactive iodine (RAI),  to reduce the amount of thyroid hormones made by the thyroid gland. Some patients will recover relatively quickly and will only need occasional blood tests to keep check of thyroid hormone levels. For others, their treatment may be more tedious and complicated, and may require surgery, to remove part or all of the gland. Post operatively, thyroid hormone replacement therapy is required. It can take a few months, to up to a year or more to stabilize thyroid function in some individuals. Again, this will depend upon the severity, and type, of condition. Overall, patients well cared for and treated appropriately should enjoy a healthy vibrant life with a lowered risk of long term health problems.

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© 2000 by Robyn Koumourou

Thyroid Disorders | Thyroid Matters

Updated 2020

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Relevant Links: 

Link - Physiology, Thyroid Function - NATIONAL LIBRARY OF MEDICINE, NCBI

Link - The Invisible Hypothyroidism - Thyroid Patient Advocate

Link - 10 Facts about Thyroid Disease - Dr, Izabella Wentz, PHARMD

Link - Hypothyroidism: Symptoms and Causes - MAYO CLINIC

Link - Hypothyroidism: Diagnosis and Treatment - MAYO CLINIC

Link - Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms and Causes - MAYO CLINIC

Link - Hyperthyroidism: Diagnosis and Treatment - MAYO CLINIC

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