Hypothyroidism: A condition in which thyroid hormone is produced in insufficient amounts.
Hyperthyroidism: A condition in which thyroid hormone is produced in excess.
The main reasons for these are given below:
Causes of thyroid problems
Autoimmune Diseases: The main reason for this is that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland.
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Causes hypothyroidism.
Graves’ disease: Causes hyperthyroidism.
Iodine deficiency/excess: Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormone. Too little or too much iodine in the diet can cause problems.
Heredity: People with a family history of thyroid disease are more likely to develop this condition.
Hormonal changes: Women often experience thyroid problems due to hormonal changes during pregnancy and postpartum.
Medication side effects: Some medications (e.g. lithium) can affect thyroid function.
Radiation to the neck: People who have had radiation treatment for other conditions in the throat or neck may develop thyroid problems.
Thyroid nodules: Tumors in the thyroid gland can affect hormone production.