THYROID CAUSES |
|
|
|
A normally functioning thyroid gland is
known medically as euthyroidism. An overactive thyroid that produces
too much thyroid hormone it is termed hyperthyroidism. An
underactive thyroid gland, which produces too little thyroid hormone,
is termed hypothyroidism.
Some
children are born with hypothyroidism due to abnormal thyroid
development. This type of thyroid abnormality in newborns is termed
congenital hypothyroidism. Untreated, congenital hypothyroidism can
lead to severe learning disabilities in later life. In order to
prevent this, all children are tested for hypothyroidism when they
are born.
Both
hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are more common in women. A
family history of thyroid disorders is a predisposing factor to
developing an over or under active thyroid.
An
enlarged thyroid gland (goitre) does not necessarily indicate
thyroid disease. It can, however, cause problems by pressing on the
windpipe, causing shortness of breath or on the gullet causing
difficulty swallowing. It may also press against nerves, causing
hoarseness. |
|
|
| THYROID RELATED ITEMS |
|
|
|
|
