Most do not usually bother about the thyroid gland until there is a problem. It is essential to know the causes, symptoms, and types of thyroid disease, and what can happen when the gland malfunctions. Thyroid conditions are known to cause a wide range of unrelated health problems, such as sudden changes in weight, energy levels, mood swings, and digestion. The good news, however, is that most of these diseases can be regulated and even cured with proper medicines, radioactive iodine therapies, and surgery.

Treatment options for thyroid disorders

The most common types of thyroid problems are hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, and thyroid cancer. Studies report that 1 out of every 20 people in the country aged 12 and above have hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid, where enough hormones are not getting produced. This means that many key body functions will slow down. A smaller percentage of the population has hyperthyroidism, where the glands release excess hormones.

When thyroid disorders are because of under-production or excess production of hormones, one’s aim should be to restore a proper balance in the hormone levels. So, with hyperthyroidism, it is important to slow down the release of hormones, and for hypothyroidism, it is essential to opt for hormone replacement. Surgery and drugs can be used to adjust the hormone levels. There are other treatments like herbal remedies, dietary supplements, and special exercises that can alleviate some symptoms allowing the gland to work better. The doctor will decide on one of the following methods of treatment depending on the patient’s overall health conditions, age, and previous medical history.

• Those with hypothyroidism can be given artificial thyroid hormones to restore normal levels. No drugs, surgery, or complementary medications will work once the thyroid gland slows down.
• Hyperthyroidism treatment may entail medicines, radioiodine therapy, and even surgery depending on how severe the condition is. Medicines for treatment are the beta-blockers. Antithyroid therapy involves medications for reducing thyroid hormone production, and this is the easiest treatment, albeit not an effective long-term cure. The average time needed for treatment to work is a couple of years, but one can continue with the treatment later as well.
• Radioiodine therapy aims to treat hyperthyroidism and is introduced by a liquid or capsule. Radioactive iodine will destroy cells inside the gland that produce the thyroid hormone. But this will not harm any bodily tissue. Most people undergoing this therapy may eventually get hypothyroidism since all thyroid-producing cells are destroyed. But this is far less harmful and will not trigger long-term health issues.
• Subacute thyroiditis does not need medical intervention. One may take aspirin to relieve the pain. When OTC drugs do not work, one may be given anti-inflammatory drugs. However, before taking any medicines, it is always advisable to consult a doctor.
• Surgery may be resorted to in order to remove a part of much of the gland. This method is used when one has large goiters or for pregnant women unable to take antithyroid medications. Once the gland is removed, the hormone levels return to normal. However, one may develop hypothyroidism post-surgery and require medicines. When there is the removal of the whole thyroid, one will need to take medicines for their whole life.
• To treat thyroid cancers, the cancerous tissues have to be removed, or the entire gland needs to be taken out.
• Many try alternative medicines and complementary treatments for cleansing their bodies and restoring immune functions. However, it is important to check with a doctor to be safe.