by Jasmine Smith
Thyroid health is critical to our overall well-being, influencing everything from metabolism to mental health. Jeff Houtz, the Global Product Manager for Thyroid Products and Reproductive Endocrinology at QuidelOrtho, sheds light on various thyroid tests and the often hidden symptoms of thyroid disorders. This article will explore the primary functions of the thyroid gland, common thyroid conditions, their symptoms, and diagnostic tests.
The Role of the Thyroid Gland
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck. Despite its size, it plays a vital role in regulating the body’s metabolism through the production of hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine).
“When the thyroid is functioning properly, it produces T3 and T4 hormones at the right levels, which are monitored by your brain. The brain releases TSH to regulate the production of T3 and T4. When you go to the doctor, one of the tests they typically do is for TSH, which helps balance T3 and T4 levels, keeping your body functioning smoothly. These hormones affect everything from metabolism and oxygen uptake to heart rate, cognitive function, and menstrual cycles in women,” Houtz says.
Common Thyroid Conditions
1. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. Symptoms include:
- Anxiety and irritability
- Unexplained weight loss
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Tremors
- Sweating and sensitivity to heat
- Fatigue and muscle weakness
- Difficulty sleeping
“Hyperthyroidism means your body is overactive, producing excessive thyroid hormones due to antibodies called thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI). These antibodies trick the thyroid into overproducing hormones, leading to symptoms like anxiety, depression, rapid heart rate, unexplained weight loss, and eye signs like bulging eyes or pressure, often mistaken for other issues,” Houtz adds.
2. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, leading to insufficient hormone production. Symptoms include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight gain
- Sensitivity to cold
- Depression
- Memory problems
- Dry skin and hair
- Muscle cramps and joint pain
“On the other end of the spectrum is hypothyroidism, where the body doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. This can cause weight gain, fatigue, and a range of symptoms that can overlap with those of hyperthyroidism, making diagnosis tricky. Common symptoms include fatigue, anxiety, and depression, making it difficult to pinpoint thyroid disease early because these symptoms can be attributed to many other conditions,” Houtz adds.
Hidden Symptoms and Challenges in Diagnosis
As noted above, thyroid conditions can be challenging to diagnose because their symptoms often overlap with other health issues. For instance, both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause fatigue, anxiety, and weight fluctuations. Because of this, it is important to recognize your body signals and not dismiss unexplained symptoms.
“It boils down to understanding your body’s normal state. If you’re tired because you’ve had a busy day, that’s understandable. But if you’re experiencing fatigue without a clear reason, it’s worth paying attention to. Many people are told to eat better, rest more, or exercise, but those aren’t always the solutions. If you’re excessively tired without a clear cause, it’s something to discuss with your doctor,” Houtz advises.
Delayed diagnosis is a common issue, as symptoms like anxiety or heart palpitations might lead to consultations with cardiologists or psychiatrists rather than endocrinologists. This can result in treatments that address symptoms rather than the underlying thyroid issue.
Fortunately, some tests can aid in the early detection of thyroid conditions is crucial for effective treatment. Here are the primary tests used:
Diagnostic Tests for Thyroid Conditions
1. TSH Test
The Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) test is often the first step in diagnosing thyroid issues. It measures the level of TSH in the blood, which regulates the production of T3 and T4. High TSH levels typically indicate hypothyroidism, while low TSH levels suggest hyperthyroidism.
“TSH tests are cost-effective and can be done during routine screenings. If TSH levels are abnormal, doctors usually proceed with testing T3 and T4 levels to further investigate,” Houtz shares.
2. T3 and T4 Tests
These tests measure the levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) in the blood. They help provide a clearer picture of thyroid function when used alongside the TSH test.
3. Antibody Tests
Autoimmune thyroid diseases, such as Graves’ disease (hyperthyroidism) and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (hypothyroidism), involve the production of specific antibodies. Tests for thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) and thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies can aid in diagnosing these conditions.
Graves’ disease, a common cause of hyperthyroidism, is more prevalent among women and Black Americans and can be influenced by factors such as genetics and smoking. Women in their childbearing years are particularly susceptible to thyroid disorders, which can be exacerbated by hormonal changes during pregnancy.
“Doctors may also check for antibodies, particularly for Graves’ disease, which accounts for 70 percent of hyperthyroidism cases. This helps eliminate other potential causes and confirms the diagnosis,” Houtz says. “Many women use their OB-GYN as their primary care provider, so it’s vital that these practitioners are educated on thyroid disease and its symptoms, as well as the importance of comprehensive testing beyond just TSH.”
Family history and genetic factors also play a role in your risk of developing thyroid disorders.
“Women, especially those of childbearing age, are more likely to develop thyroid issues. Autoimmune diseases like diabetes or lupus increase the likelihood of thyroid disease. Smoking also raises the risk. Graves’ disease, for example, can cause eye issues due to inflammation from the antibodies affecting eye muscles,” Houtz adds.
Advancements in Thyroid Diagnostics and Treatment
The field of thyroid diagnostics is continually evolving. QuidelOrtho, for instance, is developing new, highly specific tests for early and accurate detection of thyroid conditions.
“Treatments for thyroid disease include antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine ablation, or surgery. Early diagnosis is crucial to avoid more invasive treatments later,” Houtz shares.”There are advancements in thyroid diagnostics, with new tests and treatments on the horizon. For instance, monoclonal antibodies, known as designer drugs, are being developed to target specific antibodies causing Graves’ disease and thyroid eye disease. These treatments are more effective and could improve patient outcomes significantly.”
Understanding and monitoring thyroid health is essential for overall well-being. Regular screening, awareness of symptoms, and early diagnosis can prevent long-term health issues associated with thyroid disorders. If you experience unexplained fatigue, anxiety, or weight changes, consult your healthcare provider and consider a thyroid function test.
For more information on thyroid health and diagnostics, visit QuidelOrtho’s website or consult with your healthcare provider. Early detection and treatment are key to managing thyroid conditions effectively.
