Understanding Thyroid Disease: Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

Thyroid disease affects millions of Americans, yet many people don’t recognize the symptoms. Because the thyroid influences everything from energy levels and body temperature to heart rate and mood, an untreated thyroid disorder can have a significant impact on daily life. 

“Many symptoms of thyroid disease can be subtle at first and are often mistaken for stress, aging or other health conditions,” says Katlyn Clark-Fuqua, MD, family medicine physician with Roane County Family Practice. “The good news is that thyroid disorders are highly treatable once they’re identified.” 

What Is Thyroid Disease? 

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck. It produces hormones that help regulate metabolism, heart rate, body temperature and energy levels. 

The two most common types of thyroid disease are: 

• Hypothyroidism, when the thyroid produces too little hormone
• Hyperthyroidism, when the thyroid produces too much hormone 

Many thyroid conditions are autoimmune diseases, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, while Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. 

Women, people with a family history of thyroid disease and those with other autoimmune conditions are at greater risk. Genetics can play a role, so having a parent or sibling with thyroid disease may increase a person’s likelihood of developing a thyroid condition. 

Diagnosis often begins with a physical exam and blood testing to measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. Patients can begin by speaking with their primary care provider, although more complex cases may be referred to an endocrinologist. 

Treatment depends on the specific condition and may include medication, ongoing monitoring or, in some cases, surgery. 

What Is Hypothyroidism? 

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid cannot produce enough hormone to meet the body’s needs. 

Common symptoms include: 

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Dry skin
• Depression
• Constipation
• Feeling cold more easily
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating 

The most common cause is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism is also commonly diagnosed during pregnancy and after childbirth, when hormone changes can affect thyroid function. 

If left untreated, hypothyroidism can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels, heart problems and enlargement of the thyroid gland. Some patients may also develop thyroid nodules. While most nodules are benign, some require additional testing to rule out thyroid cancer. 

Treatment typically involves daily thyroid hormone replacement medication. 

What Is Hyperthyroidism? 

Hyperthyroidism develops when the thyroid becomes overactive and produces too much hormone. 

Symptoms may include: 

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Increased sweating
• Tremors
• Difficulty sleeping 

Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Some patients may also develop goiters, thyroid nodules or hormone-producing tumors. Hyperthyroidism can also occur during pregnancy and the postpartum period, making close monitoring especially important for mothers experiencing symptoms. 

“An overactive thyroid can place extra strain on the heart and other organs,” says Dr. Clark-Fuqua. “Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.” 

Treatment options may include medication, radioactive iodine therapy or surgery. 

What Is Thyroid Eye Disease? 

Thyroid eye disease is an autoimmune condition most often associated with Graves’ disease. It occurs when inflammation affects the tissues around the eyes. 

Thyroid eye disease typically has two stages. During the active stage, inflammation causes symptoms to worsen. During the inactive stage, the inflammation settles down, although some changes to the eyes may remain. 

Symptoms may include: 

• Eye irritation or redness
• Puffy eyelids
• Bulging eyes
• Double vision
• Vision changes 

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and may include eye drops, medications or specialized care from an ophthalmologist. 

When Should You See a Doctor? 

Talk with a healthcare provider if you experience persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, heart palpitations or other symptoms that may be related to thyroid disease. 

Covenant Health primary care providers can diagnose many thyroid conditions through routine exams and blood testing. When specialized care is needed, patients can be connected with endocrinology and other specialists to create a personalized treatment plan. 

Many thyroid conditions can be effectively managed through routine monitoring and treatment. Schedule an appointment with a Covenant Health provider today through our Find a Doctor tool. 

Learn more about Covenant Health’s Blood Screenings and Tests and the American Thyroid Association’s information on Thyroid Function Tests.