Thyroid Disorders Affect 42 Million Indians – Know Its Signs & Symptoms

Small things often have the greatest impact, and this perfectly describes the thyroid gland. This butterfly-shaped organ may be small, but it plays a vital role in regulating the body’s metabolism, energy levels, and overall functioning. When the thyroid does not function properly, it can lead to various thyroid disorders.

Globally, millions are affected by these disorders, and in India alone, over 42 million people suffer from thyroid-related issues, making it a significant public health concern.

This blog aims to cover everything you need to know about the thyroid gland: how it works, the different types of disorders, their symptoms, how they are diagnosed, and how they can be managed. Let’s read on.

Understanding The Thyroid Gland

The thyroid is an important endocrine gland in the neck, positioned directly below the cricoid cartilage. It has a characteristic butterfly shape, with two lobes: the right (lobus dexter) and the left (lobus sinister). This gland consists mostly of two types of cells:

• Follicular cells produce thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). 
• Parafollicular cells (C cells) release calcitonin, a hormone important in calcium regulation.

The thyroid gland normally weighs between 18 and 60 gms.¹

Functions Of Thyroid Hormones

Thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) play an important part in many physiological processes, including ¹:

Metabolic Regulation:

• Improve the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids.
• Increase oxygen intake and heat production (thermogenesis).
• Boost cardiac activity by increasing heart rate and cardiac output.

Hormonal Interactions:

Hormonal interactions can affect insulin and glucocorticoids.

Growth and Development:

Supports growth hormone secretion, skeletal development, and central nervous system maturation.¹

Organ Function:

Affects major organs like kidneys, liver, and muscles.

Thyroid hormones are essential for maintaining a balanced metabolism, supporting organ function, and promoting normal development from infancy to adulthood. Any interruption in these levels can result in serious health consequences, which is why thyroid health is critical.¹

Recognising The Symptoms Of Thyroid Disease

Thyroid disease can present with a wide range of symptoms, but here's the challenge: many of these symptoms are nonspecific and can easily be mistaken for signs of other health conditions or even natural changes that occur with age or stress. This often makes it difficult to identify whether the root cause is a thyroid problem or something else entirely.

In general, symptoms of thyroid disorders fall into two main categories, depending on whether the thyroid is overactive or underactive:²

1. Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)

This occurs when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone, leading to an increased metabolism.²

2. Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)

This happens when the thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormone, slowing down the metabolism.²

Causes Of Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders can arise from the various underlying issues, from hormonal to autoimmune conditions. Here are some common causes of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism:

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

This is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in developed countries. It is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland.³

Thyroiditis

Thyroiditis refers to inflammation of the thyroid gland and can result in temporary phases of both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.³

Thyroid Nodules and Adenomas

Thyroid nodules are lumps or growths in the thyroid gland. Most are benign (non-cancerous), but some can become “hot nodules” that secrete excess thyroid hormone, leading to hyperthyroidism.³

Thyroid Nodules and Adenomas

Thyroid nodules are lumps or growths in the thyroid gland. Most are benign (non-cancerous), but some can become “hot nodules” that secrete excess thyroid hormone, leading to hyperthyroidism.³

Thyroid Disorders in Women

Women are significantly more likely than men to develop thyroid disorders. Thyroid dysfunction can impact various stages of reproductive life, including:

• Puberty
• Menstrual cycles
• Fertility
• Pregnancy
• Postpartum health

Conditions like postpartum thyroiditis can affect up to 5% of women after childbirth and usually resolve within a year.³

Diagnosis of Thyroid Disorders

If you're feeling extra tired, gaining or losing weight unexpectedly, or noticing a swelling in your neck, your doctor may check your thyroid gland, a small organ in your neck that controls your body’s metabolism.

When you visit your doctor with symptoms that could be related to a thyroid issue, the first step usually involves a simple discussion and physical check-up. Your doctor will begin by asking about how you’ve been feeling. This includes common signs like fatigue, mood changes, weight fluctuations, or irregular periods. They will also examine your medical history and enquire about the presence of thyroid problems in your family, as certain thyroid conditions are hereditary.² 

Blood Tests

To confirm what’s going on, your doctor will do some blood tests. These check your hormone levels to see if your thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism).²

The main tests include:

• TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone): Tells the thyroid to make hormones. High or low TSH can mean your thyroid is not working right.
• T3 and T4: These are the hormones made by the thyroid. They help control energy, mood, and metabolism.
• Thyroid antibodies: These show if your immune system is attacking your thyroid (common in autoimmune thyroid problems like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease).

Imaging tests

If your doctor feels a lump or swelling, they might do a scan to get a better look.

• Thyroid Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to see if there are nodules or signs of a goitre (enlarged thyroid).
• Thyroid Uptake and Scan: A special scan that shows if any nodules are producing too much hormone.²

Conclusion:

With over 42 million Indians affected by thyroid disorders, it is clear that this tiny gland plays a big role in our overall health. Whether it’s unexplained weight changes, constant fatigue, mood swings, or irregular periods, your thyroid could be trying to tell you something.

The good news? Most thyroid conditions are manageable with early detection and the right treatment. By staying informed, recognising symptoms early, and getting routine check-ups when something feels off, you can protect your thyroid health and prevent complications.

Although your thyroid may appear small, its impact is significant. Listen to your body, talk to your doctor, and take control of your health because a healthy thyroid means a healthier you.

Ready to check your thyroid health? Get accurate thyroid testing and expert guidance with LifeCell Diagnostics. Early detection starts here!

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the most common thyroid disorders?

The most common thyroid disorders include hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (an autoimmune condition causing hypothyroidism), Graves’ disease (autoimmune hyperthyroidism), thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer. Each condition affects thyroid hormone production and overall health differently.^{2, 3}

What are early warning signs of thyroid problems?

Early warning signs of thyroid problems vary depending on whether the thyroid is overactive or underactive. Common symptoms include unexplained weight changes, fatigue, mood swings, irregular menstrual cycles, changes in heart rate, sensitivity to heat or cold, hair thinning, and swelling in the neck. Noticing these signs early can help with timely diagnosis and treatment.³

How do thyroid problems start?

Thyroid problems can start due to autoimmune diseases, iodine deficiency, genetic factors, inflammation of the thyroid (thyroiditis), or exposure to radiation. Autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease are major causes, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, disrupting hormone production.³

How to check thyroid at home?

While you can’t diagnose thyroid problems at home, you can do a simple self-check by feeling your neck area just for any unusual swelling, lumps, or enlargement. If you notice any changes or experience symptoms like fatigue or weight fluctuations, consult a healthcare provider for professional testing.

Can thyroid be cured permanently?

Some thyroid conditions can be managed effectively, but permanent cure depends on the specific disorder. Autoimmune thyroid diseases often require lifelong treatment, while thyroid nodules or certain types of thyroid cancer may be treated successfully with surgery or medication. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are key to managing thyroid health long-term.