by Angel Sharum

Created on: August 07, 2008   Last Updated: August 11, 2008

The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland located in the neck. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism and growth. When your thyroid gland produces too much or too little of these hormones you start to have problems.

Some signs of overactive thyroid or Hyperthyroidism

*Heart Palpitations, breathlessness, and fast heart rate
*Increased bowel movements
*Heat Intolerance and warm skin

*Nervousness and trembling
*Insomnia
*Weight loss
*Hair loss

There are other symptoms that can be associated with hyperthyroidism. If you have any of the above you should seek medical attention. While talking with the doctor go over any other symptoms you are experiencing.

Some signs of underactive thyroid or Hypothyroidism

*Extreme fatigue
*Weight Gain
*Hair loss and dry coarse hair
*Dry skin
*Cold intolerance
*Muscle aches and weakness
*Depression and irritability
*Memory loss
*Constipation

There are other symptoms that develop with hypothyroidism. Tell your doctor every symptom you have so that he gets the full picture of your condition.

Although very rare, thyroid cancer is a concern. Some symptoms of thyroid cancer are neck pain, lymph nodes that become enlarged, hoarseness of the voice, and nodules. Many people develop nodules on their thyroid. Less than 1% of nodules turn out to be cancerous. It is a good idea to speak to your physician if you notice any of the symptoms listed here.

Thyroiditis is another thing to be aware of regarding the thyroid gland. The most common type of thyroiditis is Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. With this condition the body's antibodies attack the thyroid gland, eventually killing it, leaving the person hypothyroid. A person with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis will have hypothyroid symptoms. De Quervain's Thyroiditis is the next most common form of thyroiditis. It causes painful swelling of the thyroid gland and leaves the person hyperthyroid. The least common form of thyroiditis is Silent Thyroiditis. This type combines elements of both the other two. It occurs most often right after pregnancy. Many people recover without the need of medical assistance from Silent Thyroiditis.

You can also develop a goiter on your thyroid gland. A goiter is when the thyroid gland swells. You will see or feel the swelling in your neck. Goiters often go away without treatment, but sometimes patients need thyroid medication or even surgery if the goiter becomes painful.

Take any of these symptoms seriously and seek medical attention. Thyroid problems can wreck havoc with your body. You need to get treatment as soon as possible. The most common form of treatment for thyroid problems is a single pill taken once daily. There are also dietary considerations and supplements that you can talk with your doctor about. Taking care of your thyroid is important to overall health. Be proactive and take steps to control any thyroid problems quickly.

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