What to do if you have a thyroid. Thyroid gland - symptoms and signs of malfunctioning of the thyroid gland

Unfortunately, not everyone knows that ignoring diseases associated with the thyroid gland is dangerous not only by increasing the level of cholesterol in the blood, but also by more serious consequences.

The thyroid gland (thyroid gland, as it is popularly called) is one of the endocrine glands responsible for almost the entire body. The thyroid hormones produced by it support the functioning of the brain, heart, muscles, bones, reproductive system and stimulate metabolism. Her "area of ​​responsibility" is quite large, so thyroid diseases entail disruptions throughout the body.

Thyroid diseases

All diseases of this gland can be divided into two groups: diseases accompanied by hypothyroidism (low function of the gland) and hyperthyroidism (increased function of the gland).

What causes thyroid disease:

* iodine deficiency;

* Violations of other organs that block the absorption of iodine;

*unfavorable environmental conditions;

*strong stress

*Genetic disorders.

Hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis)

From the name it already follows that the amount of hormones produced is increased. Such an overabundance is possible that symptoms of toxic damage to the body occur:

*weight loss;

*trembling of hands and body;

*cardiopalmus;

* muscular and general weakness;

* Tearfulness, increased irritability, sudden mood swings;

Most often, thyrotoxicosis is a manifestation of diffuse or nodular toxic goiter. It is also characterized by an enlarged thyroid gland. With a diffuse increase, it occurs evenly, with nodal growths appear - nodes. In case of suspected goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland), it is necessary to undergo the following examinations:

hormonal blood test;

• node biopsy.

Therapy is prescribed according to the results.

Modern tools can quite effectively treat increased thyroid function. There are drugs that destroy excess hormones, as well as help normalize the functions of the gland. In extreme cases, an operation is performed to resect or remove this organ, followed by hormone replacement therapy.

Hypothyroidism

An underactive thyroid causes a condition called hypothyroidism. In this case, due to a smaller amount of hormones, the metabolism slows down. What does the patient feel? Some of the symptoms coincide with hyperthyroidism: tearfulness, emotional instability. At the same time, there are such manifestations:

*fatigue;

* Forgetfulness, weakening of concentration;

*drowsiness during the day;

*slower heartbeat

*heart failure;

*dry skin, hair loss, brittle nails;

*problems in the work of the stomach and intestines;

*obesity;

* violation of coordination of movements (patients become somewhat clumsy).

Causes of hypothyroidism:

Endemic goiter;

Autoimmune thyroiditis;

Congenital thyroiditis (may be associated with underdevelopment of the gland).

With endemic goiter, the state of hypothyroidism occurs due to a lack of iodine in the diet. This is often related to geographic location. The gland increases in size, but is not able to produce the right amount of hormones.

With autoimmune thyroiditis, the gland is damaged by the immune system, which, due to some kind of malfunction, begins to produce antibodies to its own thyroid gland. The danger lies in the fact that this disease destroys the tissues of the thyroid gland, and over time, the changes can become irreversible, and the treatment is very difficult. In the future, the patient may completely lose interest in life and even become disabled, since any disease of the thyroid gland leads to a violation of almost all body functions, as well as to a drop in intelligence.

It is very important to consult an endocrinologist in time to clarify the diagnosis. In addition to the same examinations as with thyrotoxicosis, it is necessary to pass an analysis for antibodies.

In addition to the listed diseases of the thyroid gland, there are also:

• myxedema;
• goiter Hashimoto;
• cretinism;
• thyroid adenoma;
• thyroid cancer.

Among endocrine disorders, thyroid disease ranks second after diabetes mellitus. They, according to the World Health Organization, affect more than 665 million people in the world.

This butterfly-shaped gland plays an important role in our body - it produces three hormones: thyroxine, triiodothyronine and thyrocalciotonin. And without them, the processing and assimilation of all nutrients would be impossible. And if for some reason there are too many of them ( hyperthyroidism) or few ( hypothyroidism), problems begin in the body.

How to prevent their occurrence? Pay attention to the symptoms below.

MUSCLE AND JOINT PAIN

Pain is often seen as a symptom of a particular problem, but in the case of thyroid disease, for some reason, it is often overlooked. Meanwhile, people with hypothyroidism may experience pain in the muscles and joints, especially the arms and legs. Fibromyalgia (symmetric pain all over the body) and carpal tunnel syndrome are also common concerns for people with thyroid problems.

NECK DISCOMFORT, "TURTLE-NECK FEELING"

A feeling of swelling and enlargement in the neck, a “turtleneck feeling”, difficulty swallowing or a hoarse voice - all this can also be a reason to make an appointment with an endocrinologist. Because it can be signs of thyroid disease.

HAIR LOSS, SKIN CHANGES

Hair and skin are especially vulnerable if problems begin with the thyroid gland. In particular, when hypothyroidism hair becomes brittle and dry. And the skin is rough, thick, dry and often flaky. But the main specific syndrome in hypothyroidism is hair loss at the outer edge of the eyebrow. An inflamed thyroid gland is also characterized by an unusual rash that appears on the skin of the legs.

INCREASED CHOLESTEROL

High or, conversely, low cholesterol levels can also be a sign of undiagnosed hypothyroidism. Especially if it does not change despite exercise and diet and does not even respond to drugs to correct cholesterol levels.

INTESTINAL PROBLEMS

Surprised? However, this is true: severe or prolonged constipation, which even medications do not "take" may be associated with hypothyroidism. Whereas diarrhea, loose stools, and irritable bowel syndrome often accompany hyperthyroidism.

MENSTRUAL AND FERTILITY DISORDERS

Thyroid problems sometimes interfere with fertility, that is, with the body's ability to produce viable offspring. At the same time, women with hyperthyroidism, as a rule, have a short cycle and scanty discharge. Sometimes there is even a complete cessation of menstruation.

But women with undiagnosed hypothyroidism may experience problems such as infertility and recurrent miscarriages.

FATIGUE AND EXHAUSTATION

The constant feeling that you are exhausted in the morning, or the feeling that even ten hours of sleep a night is not enough for you - all this is an alarming symptom. As well as frequent insomnia. Check your thyroid!

FREQUENTLY REPEATING DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY

Depression or anxiety, especially with the sudden onset of a panic attack, can also be warning signs. In the meantime, pay attention! - hypothyroidism more commonly associated with depression, while hyperthyroidism- with anxiety, panic attacks and bipolar disorder.

Depression that doesn't "respond" to antidepressants can also be a sign of an undiagnosed thyroid disorder.

SUDDEN WEIGHT CHANGE

It doesn't matter if the weight goes up or down. In any case, unexplained weight changes without special diet and exercise may be signs of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

In the first case people lose weight catastrophically or cannot gain weight, no matter how much they eat.

In the second- they get fat, and no diets and fitness work on them, only a complex (fitness, special diet and drug support) will help them.

THYROID PROBLEMS IN FAMILY HISTORY

If one of your parents or relatives had problems with the thyroid gland, then you should always remember that you are at risk. And regularly examine the gland, so as not to miss the beginning of problems, if they, God forbid, begin.

ON A NOTE

When and who needs to do an ultrasound of the thyroid gland, why is this organ most susceptible to diseases in Belarusians and how to make sure that there are no problems? We talked about this with the doctor of ultrasound diagnostics of the highest category with more than 20 years of experience, the head of the ultrasound department of the Lode Medical Center Nikolai Lukashevich

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Do you want to sleep all the time? It could be due to hypothyroidism

What you need to know about the thyroid gland

The thyroid gland, which is located in the neck and is shaped like a butterfly can have a dramatic effect on a huge number of bodily functions, and if you are a woman over 35, then you have a high risk of thyroid disease - by some estimates, more than 30%.

In women, thyroid problems are observed 10 times more often than in men, says physician Robin Miller.

Thyroid

Located above the "Adam's apple", this gland produces a specific hormone - thyroid (TH), which regulates, among other things, your body temperature, metabolism, and heartbeat. Problems can begin when your hyperactive or vice versa, not active enough. If the thyroid gland works poorly, then it produces too little TH, but if it is hyperactive, then too much.

What can cause the thyroid gland to fail? These could be genetic causes, autoimmune attacks, pregnancy, stress, malnutrition, or environmental toxins, but experts aren't very sure. Since the body is full of thyroid hormones - from the brain to the intestines - diagnosing the disease can be a daunting task. Below are signs that your thyroid may be out of whack.

1. Your powers are depleted

There are many reasons for feeling tired and lacking energy, but all of them are related to hypothyroidism, a disease in which thyroid hormones are not produced enough. If you still feel tired in the mornings or throughout the day after a night's sleep, this may indicate that your thyroid gland may not be working actively enough. If too little thyroid hormone is circulating in your circulation and cells, then your muscles aren't getting the signals to start working. “The first signal I see is fatigue,” says Dr. Miller.

2. You are depressed

An unusual feeling of depression or sadness can also be a symptom of hypothyroidism. Why? Because by producing too few hormones, the thyroid can affect levels of the “feel good” neurotransmitter, serotonin, in the brain. If the thyroid gland is not active enough, then other systems of the body also “roll down”, and therefore it is not surprising that our mood also drops.

3. Nervousness and anxiety

Feelings of anxiety are associated with hyperthyroidism, when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Overflowing with constant “all systems go!” signals, your metabolism and your entire body can become overexcited. If you feel like you can't relax, then your thyroid may be overactive.

4. Appetite and taste preferences have changed

Increased appetite can be indicative of hyperthyroidism, when too much hormone production can make you feel hungry all the time. The only difference and, one might say, the “plus” of this is that in this case, malfunctions in the thyroid gland due to its hyperactivity compensate for the use of excess calories due to increased appetite, so the person ultimately does not gain weight.

On the other hand, an underactive thyroid can create confusion in your sense of taste and smell.

5. Fuzzy thinking

Of course, fuzzy thinking can be the result of lack of sleep or aging, but cognitive abilities can also take a significant hit as a result of malfunctioning of the thyroid gland. Too high levels of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism) can make it difficult to concentrate, and too low (hypothyroidism) can lead to forgetfulness and "foggy thinking." “When we treat patients with hypothyroidism, they are often surprised at how quickly they clear up this haziness in their head and how much more acute their senses become,” says Dr. Miller. "Many women think it's something related to menopause when it's actually a thyroid problem."

6. Loss of interest in sex

Weak or lack of interest in sex can be a side effect of thyroid disease. Low hormone levels can cause low libido, but the overall effect of other hypothyroid symptoms - lack of energy, body aches - can also play a role.

7. Everything trembles before my eyes

This "trembling" may appear due to a rapid heartbeat. You may feel like your heart is fluttering or skipping a beat or two, or beating too hard or too fast. You can also note such sensations on your wrist or on pulse points on your throat or neck. A "fluttering" heart or palpitations can be a sign that your system is overflowing with hormones (hyperthyroidism).

8. Dry skin

Dry skin, if it is also itchy, may be a sign of hypothyroidism. Changes in the texture and appearance of the skin are most likely due to slower metabolism (caused by low hormone levels), which can reduce sweating. Skin without enough fluid can quickly become dry and flaky. In addition, the nails become brittle and voluminous longitudinal stripes appear on them.

9. The intestines began to work unpredictably.

People with hypothyroidism sometimes complain of constipation. Insufficient work of the thyroid gland causes a slowdown in the digestive process.

"There is no movement in your bowels," says Dr. Miller. "This is one of the top three symptoms of hypothyroidism that I see."

On the other hand, too much thyroid activity can cause diarrhea or more frequent bowel movements. These can all be signs of hyperthyroidism.

10. The frequency of menstruation has changed

Longer menstrual periods with more flow and pain can be a sign of hypothyroidism, when not enough hormones are produced. Periods between periods may be shortened.

In hyperthyroidism, high levels of TH cause various types of menstrual irregularities. Periods are shorter or longer, menstruation can pass in a very small amount. “I always ask my patients about their cycles and their regularity,” says Dr. Miller. She found a strong relationship between irregular periods and thyroid problems. And if the menstruation is very difficult, then she also checks for anemia.

11. Pain in limbs and muscles

Sometimes such pain is due to increased work of muscles and limbs. However, if you experience unexplained and unexpected tingling, numbness, or just pain - in your hands, feet, legs, or arms - it could be a sign of hypothyroidism. Over time, insufficient levels of thyroid hormones can destroy the nerves that send signals from your brain and spinal cord throughout your body. This is expressed in such "inexplicable" tingling and pain.

12. High blood pressure

An increase in pressure can be a symptom of thyroid disease. This can be due to both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. According to some estimates, people with hypothyroidism have a 2-3 times higher risk of developing hypertension. According to one theory, low levels of thyroid hormones can slow down the heartbeat, which can affect the force of expulsion of blood and the flexibility of the walls of blood vessels. Both can cause high blood pressure.

13. Temperature at zero

Feeling cold or chilly may have roots in hypothyroidism. The inactivity of the body systems due to low levels of hormones means that there is less energy in the body that is burned by the cells. Less energy equals less heat.

On the other hand, an overactive thyroid causes the cells to burn too much energy. Therefore, people with hyperthyroidism sometimes feel hot and sweat profusely.

14. Hoarseness and strange sensations in the neck

Changes in the voice or a feeling of "lump in the throat" may be a sign of a thyroid problem. One way to check for this is to take a good look at the neck for any signs of an enlarged thyroid gland. You can check your thyroid gland yourself by following these recommendations:

Take a mirror in your hand and, looking at your throat, drink some water. Your job is to watch for any bumps or protrusions in the thyroid area, which is below the Adam's apple and above the collarbone. You may have to do this several times to get a feel for where the thyroid is actually located. If you notice any bumps or anything suspicious, see your doctor.

15. Crashes in sleep mode

Do you want to sleep all the time? This may be due to hypothyroidism. An "underperforming" thyroid can slow down body functions so much that sleeping (even during the daytime) may seem like a brilliant idea.

Can't sleep? This may be due to hyperthyroidism. High hormone levels can translate into anxiety and a fast heart rate, which can make it difficult to fall asleep or even cause you to wake up in the middle of the night.

16. Weight Gain

Plus two sizes in clothes - the reasons for this circumstance are so numerous that it is unlikely that your doctor will consider an increase in everything as a symptom of a potential thyroid disease. However, weight gain is one of Dr. Miller's primary thyroid checks. "Patients say they don't eat more than usual, but they still put on weight," she says. “They do exercises, but nothing changes. They can't reset it." It's almost always in the thyroid, says Miller.

On the other hand, unexpected weight loss can signal hyperthyroidism.

17. Hair thinning or falling out

Dry, brittle hair or even hair loss can be a sign of hypothyroidism. Low hormone levels disrupt the hair growth cycle and put many follicles into "rest" mode, resulting in hair loss. “Sometimes all over my body, including my eyebrows.” “Many patients talk about hair loss,” Miller says. thyroid." Barbershops are more thyroid aware than some doctors!“

An excess of thyroid hormones can also affect the amount of your hair. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism that affect the hair are usually expressed as thinning of the hair on the head only.

18. Problems with pregnancy

If you have been unsuccessfully trying to get pregnant for a long time, then this may be due to an excess or lack of thyroid hormones. Difficulty conceiving is associated with a high risk of undiagnosed thyroid problems. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can interfere with the ovulation process, which affects the ability to conceive. Thyroid disease also leads to problems that occur during pregnancy.

19. High cholesterol

High low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels that are independent of diet, exercise, or medication may be related to hypothyroidism. An increase in the level of “bad” cholesterol” can be caused by a “defect” of the thyroid gland and be a cause for concern. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to heart problems, including heart failure.

Test your thyroid

If you have one or more of these symptoms and you suspect a thyroid problem, then consult a doctor and ask for tests for thyroid stimulating hormone (TTT), free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4), do an ultrasound of the thyroid gland - says Dr. Miller. Based on test results, symptoms, and examination, you may be prescribed synthetic hormones. There can be some trial and error in testing and prescribing treatments for thyroid disease, so be prepared to visit your doctor several times to ensure the correct dosage is given.

Get treated

When it comes to thyroid, get ready to be your own lawyer. Some doctors may neglect thyroid diagnoses despite the fact that the American Endocrinology Association in 2003 narrowed the normal range for thyroid hormones from 0.5–5.0 to 0.3–3.04.

This means that more women are among those who need treatment. "Find a doctor who treats, not just tests," says Dr. Miller. "If you feel better at a certain dosage, then it carries as much weight as a lab result." published

The most basic and simplest way to study goiter is palpation. Using this method, the doctor is able to determine the degree of enlargement of the gland, the shape, pain and nodes. If an increase after the initial examination was detected, then the patient is sent for the following examinations.

ultrasound

Ultrasound is one of the most accessible and inexpensive research methods, which has proven its reliability. fast enough and does not require special training. The study is completely painless and does not cause any harm to the person. The results of the examination will not have to wait, as they will be ready after 10-20 minutes.

With the help of ultrasound, a specialist has the ability to visually assess the gland, adjacent vessels, and lymph nodes. Also, the device has the ability to show the location of the body and designate its parameters. Decryption will help you find:

• cysts
• tumors
• blood clots
• seals
• sizes of neoplasms
• and others from the established standards

Biopsy

A biopsy of the thyroid gland allows you to determine which cells are part of the organ and node (if any). With a negative result, the study shows: the formation on the organ refers to a benign or malignant manifestation of the disease.

The process is similar to taking blood from a vein, only a thin needle is inserted into the thyroid gland, from which the desired material is taken. Special preparation before passing the analysis is not required.

Magnetic resonance imaging allows you to see the organ in a three-dimensional image, which will show the presence of changes in the gland, neoplasms, compression of the esophagus and trachea. The specialist receives the results of the study very quickly, and on the day of the examination he has the opportunity to study the information received.

thermography

Thermography is a technique that allows you to determine the pathology of the thyroid gland by determining the temperature indicators of each part of the human body using a special thermal imager.

Infrared radiation helps to determine the origin of the node, due to even small changes in temperature. The procedure is completely harmless and can be carried out more than once.

Thermography requires special training:

• within ten days it is not recommended to take any hormonal drugs
• stop using any ointments in the thyroid area

Blood test for hormone levels

The patient tests thyroid hormones so that the specialist can determine the level of thyroid hormones (triiodothyronine, thyroxine), as well as thyroid-stimulating hormone. In order for the analysis to give the most correct results, it is taken on an empty stomach, early in the morning. Before taking the test, it is not recommended to take alcohol for several days. Hormonal medications are taken after taking blood. Prior to the analysis, it is not recommended to do an ultrasound, ECG, X-ray, or any physiotherapy procedures.

radioisotope scanning

Radioisotope scanning is the use of the peculiarity of the gland to attract technetium and radioactive iodine molecules to itself, accumulating them. Such molecules emit gamma radiation, which can be picked up by a special device.

To conduct a study on an organ, a sensor is installed that takes measurements and shows the intensity of absorption of technetium or iodine. This will allow you to get a picture of the shape, size, location of the organ and others. For this procedure, you will have to prepare in advance:

• for a month stop taking iodine-containing medicines and products
• no x-ray with contrast for three months
• cancel for three months before the procedure taking cordarone
• for seven days exclude the use of aspirin, antihistamines, cough syrups
• scanning is done in the morning on an empty stomach

All of these research methods are prescribed by a doctor, most often a blood test, ultrasound, and palpation are enough to make an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Methods

Methods for the treatment of goiter are in three ways that are used at one stage or another:

1. A conservative method that is based on taking medications.
2. , this is when, with the help of surgical intervention, the lobes of an organ, nodes or the entire thyroid gland are removed.
3. Treatment with radioactive iodine, in which the functions of the gland are maximally inhibited.

Therapy is selected based on the cause of the problem, how the disease proceeds, what condition the organ is in.

If hypothyroidism is diagnosed, then the endocrinologist prescribes replacement therapy; in case of hyperthyroidism, drugs are recommended that reduce the excessive secretion of hormones.