The dangers of thyroid dysfunction
Thyroid hormones act on almost all tissues and play a role in regulating and maintaining energy and metabolic balance.
If thyroid production is disrupted, dysfunction (dysthyroidism) occurs. Hypothyroidism occurs when thyroid activity decreases, resulting in a lower concentration of thyroid hormones and a slowed metabolism. Conversely, excessive thyroid activity (hyperthyroidism), with a higher amount of thyroid hormone, accelerates metabolism and should be distinguished from thyrotoxicosis. In both cases, the thyroid gland may enlarge (goiter).
Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the most frequent cause of hypothyroidism, involves antibodies against the thyroid that progressively destroy it until total and permanent hypothyroidism is reached, but in initial stages there are states of dysthyroidism with a temporary increase in hormones (thyrotoxicosis) and temporary symptoms similar to hyperfunction.
Sometimes hypothyroidism is temporary (acute and subacute thyroiditis) with periods of hyper and hypofunction and recovery to normal.
Hypothyroidism can often go unnoticed due to its subtle symptoms, but over time it can lead to serious and potentially fatal complications. It is primarily characterized by decreased cognitive function, weight gain, high cholesterol, slowed metabolism, dry skin, dry and thinning hair, joint pain, anemia, cold intolerance, facial puffiness, constipation, muscle weakness, and pain.
Hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis causes increased metabolism and energy expenditure, resulting in patients becoming anxious, irritable, restless, and emotionally unstable, with a fixed and bright gaze, trembling, sweating, and heat intolerance. They may also report diarrhea and decreased menstrual bleeding, and can significantly impact work, home, and family life; its cardiovascular effects are risky. These conditions lead to an unsustainable state that requires prompt treatment.
Treatment depends on the type of dysfunction, the cause that triggered it, and the patient's own characteristics.
Dr. Lucia M. Gonçalves Jardim
Internal Medicine Physician.
Specialist in Endocrinology and Metabolism
Email: luciamgoncalvesj@gmail.com
Telephone: +351 939 056 458