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Understanding Thyroid Disease: Common Conditions and Symptoms

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(Audio #1) Understanding Thyroid Disease
(Audio#2) Understanding Thyroid Disease

The thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolism through the production of thyroid hormones. When the thyroid doesn’t function properly, it can lead to a range of health issues. Two of the most common thyroid disorders are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.


Common Thyroid Conditions

  1. Hypothyroidism (Under-active Thyroid): occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This condition slows down the body’s metabolic processes and can develop gradually over time. The most common cause is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland [1].

  2. Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid): In contrast, hyperthyroidism results from the thyroid producing too much hormone, which speeds up metabolism. The most common cause is Graves’ disease, another autoimmune condition that stimulates the thyroid excessively [2].

  3. Thyroiditis, or inflammation of the thyroid gland: can cause either hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or both at different phases. It encompasses several distinct conditions including:

    1. Hashimoto’s: An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid, often leading to hypothyroidism [15,21].

    2. Graves’ disease: An autoimmune disorder causing hyperthyroidism by stimulating excess thyroid hormone production.

    3. Postpartum Thyroiditis: Temporary inflammation of the thyroid after childbirth, which may cause temporary hyper- or hypothyroidism [21].

  4. Goiter: Enlargement of the thyroid gland, which may be due to iodine deficiency, Hashimoto’s, or Graves’ disease.

  5. Thyroid Nodules: Lumps in the thyroid gland. Most are benign, but some can be cancerous or cause hormone imbalances.

  6. Thyroid Cancer: Malignancy of thyroid tissue. Papillary thyroid carcinoma is the most common type.


Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Disease

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism may include:

  • Fatigue

  • Weight gain

  • Cold intolerance

  • Constipation

  • Dry skin

  • Depression

  • Slowed heart rate

  • Puffy face

  • Hoarseness

  • Thinning hair

  • Menstrual irregularities

In infants and children, hypothyroidism can also lead to developmental delays, poor growth, and delayed puberty [1].


Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism may include:

  • Unintentional weight loss

  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat

  • Nervousness or irritability

  • Tremors in the hands

  • Sweating and heat intolerance

  • Increased appetite

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Fine, brittle hair

Older adults may experience subtler symptoms such as fatigue, depression, or heart rhythm abnormalities [2].


General Signs Suggesting Thyroid Disease:

  • Visible or palpable neck swelling

  • Palpable lumps in the neck

  • Changes in mood or energy

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Sensitivity to temperature (cold or hot)


Causes of Hypothyroidism (Under-active Thyroid)

  1. Autoimmune disease – The most common cause is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland [1].

  2. Nutrient deficiencies – particularly of iodine and selenium—can impair thyroid hormone synthesis and contribute to the development of hypothyroidism [7].

  3. Calorie restriction – especially when prolonged or extreme, can lead to reduced thyroid hormone production and contribute to the development of hypothyroidism by slowing down metabolism and altering hormone signaling [5,6].

  4. Chronic stress – may contribute to the development or worsening of hypothyroidism by disrupting the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis and impairing thyroid hormone regulation [8].

  5. Unhealthy digestion – particularly conditions like intestinal dysbiosis and leaky gut, may impair thyroid function by disrupting nutrient absorption and promoting autoimmune responses linked to hypothyroidism [9].

  6. Exposure to environmental toxins – such as heavy metals and endocrine-disrupting chemicals can impair thyroid function and contribute to the development of hypothyroidism [10].

  7. Chronic exposure to mold and persistent infections – can trigger immune system dysregulation in some individuals, potentially leading to autoimmune thyroid damage and hypothyroidism [11].

  8. Thyroid surgery – Removal of all or part of the thyroid can reduce hormone production [1].

  9. Radiation therapy – Especially to the neck area, which can damage the thyroid [1].

  10. Medications – Certain drugs like lithium can affect thyroid function [1].

  11. Congenital hypothyroidism – Some babies are born with a defective or missing thyroid gland [1].


Causes of Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)

  1. Graves’ disease – An autoimmune disorder that stimulates the thyroid to produce too much hormone [3].

  2. Thyroid nodules – Overactive lumps in the thyroid can produce excess hormone [4].

  3. Thyroiditis – Inflammation of the thyroid can cause hormone leakage into the bloodstream [3].

  4. Excess iodine – High iodine intake can trigger hyperthyroidism in some individuals [4].

  5. Overmedication – Taking too much synthetic thyroid hormone (levothyroxine or liothyronine) can lead to hyperthyroidism [3].

  6. Chronic psychological stress – may contribute to the onset or exacerbation of hyperthyroidism by influencing autoimmune activity and thyroid hormone regulation [12].

  7. Unhealthy digestion – particularly gut dysbiosis and increased intestinal permeability, may influence immune system dysregulation and contribute to the development of autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Graves’ disease, a common cause of hyperthyroidism [13].

  8. Exposure to environmental toxins – such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), perchlorate, and bisphenol A (BPA) has been associated with thyroid hormone disruption and may contribute to the development of hyperthyroidism [14].

  9. Chronic infections and mold exposure  – may provoke immune responses that contribute to thyroid inflammation and the development of hyperthyroidism in susceptible individuals [15].


When to See a Doctor

If you experience persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, or changes in heart rate, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Thyroid disorders are typically diagnosed through blood tests that measure levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).


Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or health care regimen.


References

  1. Mayo Clinic. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) – Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypothyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20350284. Accessed June 7, 2025.

  2. Mayo Clinic. Hyperthyroidism – Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyperthyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20373659. Accessed June 7, 2025.

  3. Cleveland Clinic. Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism: What’s the Difference? Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/whats-the-difference-between-hypothyroidism-and-hyperthyroidism. Accessed June 8, 2025.

  4. Cleveland Clinic. Thyroid: What It Is, Function & Problems. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23188-thyroid. Accessed June 8, 2025.

  5. Cleveland Clinic. Diet for hypothyroidism: What to eat and avoid. Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/hypothyroidism-diet. Accessed June 8, 2025.

  6. Most J, Redman LM. Impact of calorie restriction on energy metabolism in humans. Exp Gerontol.2020;133:110875. doi:10.1016/j.exger.2020.110875

  7. Mayo Clinic Q and A: Hypothyroidism and dietary challenges. Mayo Clinic News Network. Published September 14, 2020. Accessed June 8, 2025. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-hypothyroidism-and-dietary-challenges/

  8. McEwen BS. Protective and damaging effects of stress mediators: central role of the brain. Dialogues Clin Neurosci.2006;8(4):367-381. doi:10.31887/DCNS.2006.8.4/bmcewen

  9. Virili C, Centanni M. “With a little help from my friends”—the role of microbiota in thyroid hormone metabolism and enterohepatic recycling. Mol Cell Endocrinol. 2017;458:39-43. doi:10.1016/j.mce.2017.01.053

  10. Boas M, Feldt-Rasmussen U, Main KM. Environmental chemicals and thyroid function. Eur J Endocrinol. 2012;166(5):603-611. doi:10.1530/EJE-11-0855

  11. Shoenfeld Y, Aron-Maor A. Infection and autoimmunity—friends or foes? Trends Immunol. 2000;21(8):385-388. doi:10.1016/s1471-4906(00)01826-6

  12. Winsa B, Adami HO, Bergström R, et al. Stressful life events and Graves’ disease. Lancet. 1991;338(8781):1475-1479. doi:10.1016/0140-6736(91)92299-U

  13. Zhao F, Feng J, Li J, et al. Alterations of the gut microbiota in Graves’ disease: a cross-sectional study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2018;103(5):1755-1764. doi:10.1210/jc.2017-02152

  14. Boas M, Feldt-Rasmussen U, Main KM. Thyroid effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals. Mol Cell Endocrinol.2012;355(2):240-248. doi:10.1016/j.mce.2011.09.005

  15. Caturegli P, De Remigis A, Rose NR. Hashimoto thyroiditis: clinical and diagnostic criteria. Autoimmun Rev. 2014;13(4-5):391-397. doi:10.1016/j.autrev.2014.01.007

  16. Ross DS, Burch HB, Cooper DS, et al. 2016 American Thyroid Association Guidelines for Diagnosis and Management of Hyperthyroidism and Other Causes of Thyrotoxicosis. Thyroid. 2016;26(10):1343-1421. doi:10.1089/thy.2016.0229

  17. Garber JR, Cobin RH, Gharib H, et al. Clinical Practice Guidelines for Hypothyroidism in Adults: Cosponsored by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the American Thyroid Association. Endocr Pract. 2012;18(6):988-1028. doi:10.4158/EP12280.GL

  18. Haugen BR, Alexander EK, Bible KC, et al. 2015 American Thyroid Association Management Guidelines for Adult Patients with Thyroid Nodules and Differentiated Thyroid Cancer. Thyroid. 2016;26(1):1-133. doi:10.1089/thy.2015.0020

  19. Pearce EN, Farwell AP, Braverman LE. Thyroiditis. N Engl J Med. 2003;348(26):2646-2655. doi:10.1056/NEJMra021194

  20. McLeod DS, Cooper DS. The incidence and prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity. Endocrine. 2012;42(2):252-265. doi:10.1007/s12020-012-9703-2

  21. Stagnaro-Green A, Abalovich M, Alexander E, et al. Guidelines of the American Thyroid Association for the Diagnosis and Management of Thyroid Disease During Pregnancy and the Postpartum. Thyroid. 2011;21(10):1081-1125. doi:10.1089/thy.2011.0087



©2025 by Nazanin Safaei, ND, MS


©2023 by Vivid Health Naturopathic.

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