The majority of thyroid nodules don’t require treatment. Treatment options for larger or cancerous nodules, or nodules that produce additional thyroid hormones, may include medication or surgery.

Thyroid disorders are conditions that affect the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck. The thyroid has important roles to regulate numerous metabolic processes throughout the body. Different types of thyroid disorders affect either its structure or function.

The thyroid gland is located below the Adam’s apple wrapped around the trachea (windpipe). A thin area of tissue in the gland’s middle, known as the isthmus, joins the two thyroid lobes on each side. The thyroid uses iodine to produce vital hormones. Thyroxine, also known as T4, is the primary hormone produced by the gland. After delivery via the bloodstream to the body’s tissues, a small portion of the T4 released from the gland is converted to triiodothyronine (T3), which is the most active hormone.

Thyroid Disease Symptoms and Signs

Thyroid disease is a common problem that can cause symptoms because of over- or under-function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is an essential organ for producing thyroid hormones, which maintain are body metabolism. The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck below the Adam’s apple. Thyroid disease can also sometimes lead to enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck, which can cause symptoms that are directly related to the increase in size of the organ such as difficulty swallowing and discomfort in front of the neck.

Hypo/Hyperthyroidism during pregnancy

Pregnancy affects on your body and may have some risks and problems. Knowing sings and diseases of this period, helps you to have a healthy pregnancy time.

It’s recommended to do thyroid test before pregnancy and get aware about your health and body system. Hypothyroidism is one of the risks that threat both mother and baby. So, you should do check ups to control the level of this hormone.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid overproduces hormones. More enlarged growths lead to goiter.
Signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism
– Increased appetite
– Nervousness
– Inability to concentrated
– Weakness
– Difficulty sleeping
– Hair loss
– Nausea and vomiting

Hypothyroidism

During pregnancy, it can have the following problems for mothers:

  • Abortion
  • Preterm labor
  • Preeclampsia
  • Blood pressure
  • Growth disorder of the babies
  • Anemia or iron deficiency
  • Neural damages

Pregnant women should do blood test and control level of thyroid hormone every 6 months.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism are as follows:

  • Severe fatigue during pregnancy
  • Lack of attention
  • Overweighting
  • Sleep disorders in pregnant women
  • Muscle pain
  • Muscle weakness
  • Bloating
  • Constipation
  • Facial edema
  • Skin dryness
  • Pulse reduction
  • Muscle contraction
  • Dizziness

These symptoms vary from one individual to the other one.

Lack of treatment of hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism during pregnancy can have prolonged effects and growth problems for your baby.