The thyroid gland is prone to several very distinct problems, some of which are extremely common. These problems can be broken down into [1] those concerning the production of hormone (too much, or too little), [2] those due to increased growth of the thyroid causing compression of important neck structures or simply appearing as a mass in the neck, [3] the formation of nodules or lumps within the thyroid which are worrisome for the presence of thyroid cancer, and [4] those which are cancerous.

* Goiters ~ A thyroid goiter is a dramatic enlargement of the thyroid gland. Goiters are often removed because of cosmetic reasons or, more commonly, because they compress other vital structures of the neck including the trachea and the esophagus making breathing and swallowing difficult. Sometimes goiters will actually grow into the chest where they can cause trouble as well. Several nice x-rays will help explain all types of thyroid goiter problems.

* Thyroid Cancer ~ Thyroid cancer is a fairly common malignancy, however, the vast majority have excellent long term survival. We now include a separate page on the characteristics of each type of thyroid cancer and its typical treatment, follow-up, and prognosis. Over 30 pages thyroid cancer.

* Solitary Thyroid Nodules ~ There are several characteristics of solitary nodules of the thyroid which make them suspicious for malignancy. Although as many as 50% of the population will have a nodule somewhere in their thyroid, the overwhelming majority of these are benign. Occasionally, thyroid nodules can take on characteristics of malignancy and require either a needle biopsy or surgical excision. Now includes risks of radiation exposure and the role of Needle Biopsy for evaluating a thyroid nodule. Also a new page on the role of ultrasound in diagnosing thyroid nodules and masses.

* Hyperthyroidism ~ Hyperthyroidism means too much thyroid hormone. Current methods used for treating a hyperthyroid patient are radioactive iodine, anti-thyroid drugs, or surgery. Each method has advantages and disadvantages and is selected for individual patients. Many times the situation will suggest that all three methods are appropriate, while other circumstances will dictate a single best therapeutic option. Surgery is the least common treatment selected for hyperthyroidism. The different causes of hyperthyroidism are covered in detail.

* Hypothyroidism ~ Hypothyroidism means too little thyroid hormone and is a common problem. In fact, hypothyroidism is often present for a number of years before it is recognized and treated. There are several common causes, each of which are covered in detail. Hypothyroidism can even be associated with pregnancy. Treatment for all types of hypothyroidism is usually straightforward.

* Thyroiditis ~ Thyroiditis is an inflammatory process ongoing within the thyroid gland. Thyroiditis can present with a number of symptoms such as fever and pain, but it can also present as subtle findings of hypo or hyper-thyroidism. There are a number of causes, some more common than others. Each is covered on this site.

While it's common for doctors to say "Thyroid disease is easy to diagnose and easy to treat," the reality is that diagnosis and treatment are complicated.

Many doctors don't recognize thyroid symptoms, so patients receive antidepressants, weight loss drugs, or other treatments, instead of a thyroid test. Once thyroid problems are suspected, some doctors will perform only one test -- the Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) test -- and then base their diagnosis only on that result.

Steve at Insider Fatherhood mentioned that being hypothyroid can have a libido-destroying effect. The thyroid, a little butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, produces several metabolic hormones that can cause a host of problems from rapid weight gain, or loss, to nervous disorders, infertility and even mental redardation in children born to women with untreated thyroid problems.

The thyroid is a gland in the neck that is just below the adam's apple. This gland is responsible releasing a hormone that is used in regulating the metabolism, growth, the body%uFFFDs use of energy and vitamins and also using other hormones. Signs and symptoms of thyroid problems can be a result of either an overactive thyroid leading to too much hormone being produced causing symptoms of hyperthyroidism or an under active thyroid leading to symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism also known as Hashimoto's Disease is an autoimmune disease that causes gland inflammation or thyroid sluggishness. It is more common than hyperthyroidism.

It is caused by the under production of thyroid hormones.

Hypothyroidism is especially prominent among women. It can be treated in a variety of ways such as surgery, medication, or you can use alternative holistic methods such as herbal supplements. As with any condition, it is important that you see a physician to have your symptoms properly evaluated and treatments discussed with your doctor or holistic practitioner. Conventionally, hypothyroidism is treated with synthetic hormones.

Too little thyroid hormone can also impact a woman's menstrual cycle and a number of other things too, says TFA. For example, it can affect cholesterol levels (Read about "Cholesterol") which in turn can result in other health problems such as heart disease. Read about "Coronary Heart Disease") In addition, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) warns women approaching menopause (Read about "Menopause") that thyroid symptoms sometimes mirror symptoms of menopause.

AACE says that women who think they are having perimenopausal or menopausal signs should raise the issue of thyroid disease with their doctor.

It is no secret anymore that at least a third of Americans suffer from some form of hypothyroid. And it is no wonder since we consume tons of thyroid poisons in the form of chlorine and fluorine, while consuming almost no thyroid fuels such as organic iodine and omega-3 fatty acids.

Someone beginning to suffer from sluggish thyroid can become exhausted and suffer all kinds of symptoms. Not the least of these symptoms are dry skin, constipation, mental sluggishness, slow pulse, frequent urination, ringing in the ears, weight gain, being cold, losing hair and eyelashes, and having your hair turn coarse. yet some of the other symptoms remain little known. They include high cholesterol, high triglycerides, fatty deposits in the liver, thick or loss of secretions (eyes, saliva, vagina, intestines, lungs), and hot flashes of menopause. these are too often considered part of "getting old". Yet they are signs of degenerative disease from premature aging which can often be attributed to a sluggish thyroid.