Hyperthyroidism vs. hypothyroidism

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ in the front of the neck. It produces hormones that regulate body temperature and keep the brain, heart, muscles and many other organs functioning properly. Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are both conditions in which the thyroid gland does not function. Hyperthyroidism causes the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone and hypothyroidism occurs when the gland does not make enough thyroid hormone.

Both conditions could cause fatigue, muscle weakness and an enlarged thyroid, so it is important to pay attention to other symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

Anxiety, nervousness and irritability;
Brittle hair;
Difficulty sleeping;
Frequent bowel movements;
Hand tremors;
Increased appetite;
Mood swings;
Muscle weakness or fatigue, specifically in the upper arms and thighs;
Rapid and/or irregular heartbeat;
Sensitivity to heat;
Lightened and/or infrequent menstrual periods;
Sudden weight loss; and
Sweating.

Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

Constipation;
Depression;
Dry skin;
Dry, thinning hair;
Forgetfulness;
Heavy menstrual periods;
Raised blood cholesterol level;
Sensitivity to cold;
Slowed heart rate;
Sluggish feeling;
Stiffness, pain and swelling in joints and/or muscles; and
Sudden and/or unexplained weight gain.

There are treatment options for both conditions. Both conditions, if left untreated, can cause serious heart complications. An overactive thyroid can be treated with anti-thyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, beta-blockers or surgery. The surgical procedure to cure hyperthyroidism could likely lead to the development of hypothyroidism. The treatment option for an underactive thyroid is a daily dose of thyroxine pills. This medication helps to restore the thyroid hormones that the body is lacking.

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