Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism: subtle symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

The human body depends on a complex network of organs and glands that regulate vital processes. Among these, the endocrine glands play a key role by producing hormones that control metabolism, growth, reproduction and many other functions. One of the most important ones is the thyroid gland, located in the neck. 

Thyroid hormones help the body manage energy and maintain a stable basal metabolism, which preserves the body temperature that is needed for the brain, heart, muscles and other organs to function optimally". Disorders that affect its performance can lead to two common conditions: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

What is hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is characterised by a decrease in the production of certain thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). Low levels of these hormones cause our metabolism to slow down, leading to a series of problems in a range of bodily functions. 

The main characteristics are:

• SThe body burns energy more slowly, leading to weight gain.
• A feeling of extreme tiredness even after resting.
• Changes in skin texture and colour.
• Decreased heart rate.
• Intolerance to cold temperatures, due to lower metabolism.
• Facial and body swelling, especially around the eyes, hands and feet.
• Hair loss and brittle nails, due to weakening of the capillary system.
• Heavy or irregular menstruation.
• Memory and concentration problems.
• Depression and mood swings.
   

Qué es el hipertiroidismo

Compared to hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism is the opposite: the thyroid gland produces excessive levels of thyroid hormones, speeding up all bodily functions. This leads to a number of characteristic symptoms, many of them associated with inordinate metabolic activity:

• The body burns energy rapidly, promoting weight loss.
• Constant need to eat, without weight gain.
• Constant state of anxiety or feeling restless.
• Rapid and irregular heartbeat; tachycardia or palpitations.
• Excessive sweating, even at rest or in cold environments.
• Tremor of the hands, particularly when at rest.
• Difficulty in falling or staying asleep.
• Muscle weakness, especially in the arms and legs.
• Irregular or light menstrual cycles.
   
   

Available treatments 

For hypothyroidism

• Levothyroxine: synthetic thyroid hormone taken daily.
• Regular monitoring: medical follow-up to adjust the dose.
• Balanced diet: rich in iodine, selenium and zinc.

For hyperthyroidism

• Antithyroid drugs: methimazole or propylthiouracil.
• Radioactive iodine: to reduce thyroid activity.
• Surgery: in severe cases or when nodules are present.
• Beta-blockers: to control symptoms such as tachycardia.
   

Advice and recommendations

It is important to have regular medical check-ups in order to monitor thyroid hormone levels, particularly when there is a family history or persistent symptoms.

It is important to eat a healthy diet, with iodine-rich foods (in the proper amounts), such as fish, seafood and iodised salt. It is also advisable to avoid stress, as it can worsen the symptoms of thyroid disorders. Excessive supplementation should also be avoided without medical supervision. For those diagnosed with the condition, physicians recommend moderate exercise, as it improves metabolism and regulates hormone levels.