The human body is extremely intricate; there are several things working in tandem to execute major bodily functions, which, in turn, ensure that you stay healthy. Hormones are among the various factors that help the body in performing its regular functions. The endocrine glands secrete these hormones directly into the bloodstream, and these hormones act as messengers that control and coordinate the multiple activities that occur throughout the body.
Different glands secrete different hormones, and each of these hormones has a unique function to perform. For instance, the thyroid gland, which is situated at the base of the front of the neck, controls all the aspects of the body’s metabolism. The thyroid gland secretes hormones that are essential for an uninterrupted brain function, heart performance, and muscle control. However, like every other aspect of the body, even the thyroid gland is vulnerable to malfunction, and this gives rise to conditions called hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Here are the main differences between hypothyroidism vs. hyperthyroidism:
1. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce the required amount of hormones. As the thyroid gland is responsible for controlling every aspect of the body’s metabolism, hypothyroidism slows down the metabolism and this results in weight gain. In fact, low levels of thyroid hormones have a drastic impact on the overall health as it slows down all the natural functions of the body. Hypothyroidism is known to affect women more frequently than men, and usually affects people over the age of 60. However, hypothyroidism can occur at any age, and it is essential to note that the signs and symptoms of this condition vary from person to person. The common symptoms of hypothyroidism are:
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Feeling cold
- Weight gain
- Decreased sweating
- Muscle weakness
- Slowed heart rate
- Elevated blood cholesterol
- Dry skin
- Impaired memory
- Dry, thinning hair
- Pain and stiffness in the joints
- Fertility difficulties or menstrual changes
- Hoarseness
- Puffy, sensitive face
- Muscle stiffness, aches, and tenderness
2. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) hormones. It works in the converse of hypothyroidism and accelerates the body’s metabolism. Moreover, hyperthyroidism usually manifests itself in three ways: a thyroid nodule that produces too much T4 hormone, thyroiditis or inflammation of the thyroid gland, or an autoimmune condition called Grave’s disease. There are chances that hyperthyroidism can mimic other health issues, which makes it difficult to diagnose. Acquainting yourself with the common symptoms of hyperthyroidism aids timely diagnosis and allows the individual to seek proper treatment. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism are as follows:
- Unintentional weight loss
- Rapid heartbeat
- Increased appetite
- Irregular heartbeat
- Pounding of the heart
- Nervousness
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Changes in the menstrual patterns
- Increased sensitivity to heat
- Fatigue, muscle weakness
- Skin thinning
- An enlarged thyroid gland that looks like swelling at the base of the neck
- Changes in bowel patterns
- Fine, brittle hair
3. Prognosis of the thyroid conditions
Both these thyroid-related conditions can be managed with the help of medications and major lifestyle changes. Hypothyroidism, that is characterized by low thyroid hormone levels can be managed with medications and the overall symptoms and hormone levels will improve over time. However, this is a condition that the individual will have to coexist with throughout their life. Whereas, with hyperthyroidism, the antithyroid medications can normalize the thyroid hormone levels without any issues. However, once the individual is diagnosed with a thyroid condition, their doctor will monitor their condition with occasional blood tests to keep other health issues at bay.
