Thyroid Gland Disorders
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ located in the front of the neck, responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and development. Disorders of the thyroid gland can lead to either excessive hormone production (hyperthyroidism), reduced hormone production (hypothyroidism), or structural abnormalities like goitre and nodules. These conditions can have widespread effects on physical and mental health. Causes Thyroid disorders may be caused by various factors: Autoimmune diseases (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease) Iodine deficiency or excess Thyroid surgery or radioiodine therapy Congenital defects or genetic predisposition Thyroid nodules or tumours Certain medications such as lithium or amiodarone Infections (e.g., subacute thyroiditis) Pathophysiology In hypothyroidism, there is