Free Essay

Differences Between Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

In:

Submitted By kami2166
Words 349
Pages 2
Differences between Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

Before you talk about the differences between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism you first have to know what the purpose of the thyroid. The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland that produces hormones for your body to function. These hormones helps help the brain, heart, muscles and many other major organs. The thyroid gland is located in the front of your neck at the base of your throat. Hypothyroidism means under active thyroid and it does not produce enough hormones needed for the body. It makes your body slow down. Symptoms are fatigue, dry skin nails and hair, constipation, weight gain, heavy mensural flow, irritability, bradycardia (decreased heart rate), increased respiratory rate. In blood testing hypothyroidism shows decreased levels of T3 and T4 and increased levels of TSH. Hypothyroidism is treated by supplements of thyroid hormones and are lifelong treatments. Hyperthyroidism means over active thyroid and produces too much hormone. This causes the body to go into over drive and speed up. Symptoms are sweating, feeling hot, and racing thoughts, anxiety, fatigue, increased bowel movements, insomnia, muscle weakness, soft nails, increased moisture of the skin, tachycardia (increased heart rate). In blood testing the T3 and T4 levels are increased and the TSH levels are decreased. The treatment for hyperthyroidism is by anti- thyroid drugs and is taken lifelong. There are auto immune diseases that can cause thyroid malfunctions. Hypothyroidism can be caused by Hashimoto’s disease (antibodies attack thyroid cells). Hyperthyroidism can be caused by Graves’ disease (over production of the thyroid hormones). However these are not the only causes for these illnesses, but the most common. Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism are serious but completely opposite disorders of the thyroid. The symptoms can be overwhelming without proper medical treatment. They are both easily diagnosed with a simple both test and a physical examination from your physician. Although they require long term treatments the patient can live long healthy lives with proper medical care and treatment.

References: www.differencesbetween.net/science/health/difference-between-hypothyroidism-andhyperthyroidism/ www.everydayhealth.com/thyroid-conditions/hypothyroidism-vs-hyperthyroidism-whats-the-difference.aspx

Similar Documents

Free Essay

The Difference Between Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

...The Difference Between Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism First let’s break these words down, so we may better understand them. Thyroid=thyroid gland, Ism=process;condition, hypo=deficient;below;under;lessthan normal, hyper=above;excessive. Hypothyroidism is a condition when there is a deficiency of thyroid hormones in the body. Hyper- thyroidism is characterized by excessive amounts of thyroid hormones in the body. These conditions are extremely difference cases. There are many signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as brady- cardia- decreased heart rate, constipation, intolerance to cold, memory problems, coarse dry hair, slow speech movements, puffy face, loss of eyebrow hair and heavy menstrual periods. Medications like lithium carbonate, genetic, decreased level of iodine in the body, disturbances in pituitary gland, hypothalamus, and infections. These are mainly causes of hypothyroidism. Treatment for this condition includes thyroid hormones such as thyroxine; which is a T4 hormone of the thyroid gland. Hyperthyroidism is caused by any growth present in the thyroid gland. Thyroid glands can be affected by a disorder called Grave’s disease, which is a immunological disorder. A sign of hyperthyroidism is a classical feature of protruding eyeball. Hyperthyroidism can also lead to thyrotoxicosis-the over production of a hormone by the butterfly-shaped gland in the neck. There is a treatment for hyperthyroidism. Anti-thyroid drugs...

Words: 341 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Alterations of Thyroid Function

...Temeka Campbell NURS 337 SEC 01 Instructor Susan Growe-Rosenthal, MSN/Ed, RN Alterations of Thyroid Function April 18, 2014 Abstract Disorders of thyroid function develop as a result of primary dysfunction or disease of the thyroid gland, or secondarily, as a result of the pituitary or hypothalamic alterations. Both primary and secondary disorders result in some sort of alteration to the thyroid hormone (TH), thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), and the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). If these levels are elevated or showing inadequate production of the hormone, then the result would be hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Of course there are underlying causes for these hormone levels to alter such as, thyrotoxicosis, Graves’ disease, and Hashimoto disease to name a few. This paper will describe the difference between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. The thyroid gland is the largest endocrine gland in the body. It is located in the anterior part of the neck, on the trachea just inferior to the larynx. Internally, the gland is composed of hollow, spherical follicles, which have follicle cells that produce thyroglobulin. Thyroid hormone (TH) derives from thyroglobulin. Thyroid hormone is referred to as the body’s major metabolic hormone. TH is actually two iodine containing amine hormones, thyroxine or T4 , and triiodothyronine or T3. TH is regulated through negative feedback loop involving the hypothalamus, the anterior pituitary, and the thyroid gland. TRH, which is synthesized...

Words: 1277 - Pages: 6

Free Essay

Hypothyroidism

...2013 Things That Can Go Wrong With the Human Body: Hypothyroidism Introduction: Over time, a significant amount of problems with the human body have evolved. These problems have been developed due to both environmental and genetic factors. Dietary changes and urbanization have also played a crucial role in the development of problems that may occur. Our bodies contain a number of functioning systems that are all imperative to our survival. Without these systems, our bodies would not function and in turn, we would cease to exist. The endocrine system serves as one of the body’s ways of sending messages to the brain. It includes a number of vital glands that keep our body’s performance stable and functional. The thyroid gland is one of the most important components in the endocrine system. It is located in the neck, just under the voice box. Its primary function is to release the hormones thyroxin (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) which control body metabolism, by taking iodine from our food and converting it into these hormones. When the levels of T4 and T3 become too low, the pituitary gland must produce a Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) which then activates the thyroid gland to generate more hormones. (Norman, 2012). If the thyroid gland does not work properly, these hormones cannot be produced on their own. This condition is known as Hypothyroidism. This paper examines the types and causes of hypothyroidism, as well as the symptoms that may occur. Possible treatments...

Words: 2379 - Pages: 10

Premium Essay

Cardiovascular Morbidity

...Cardiovascular Morbidity and Mortality in Surgically Treated Hyperthyroidism A Nation-wide Cohort Study With a Long-term Follow-up Essi Ryödi, Jorma Salmi, Pia Jaatinen, Heini Huhtala, Rauni Saaristo, Matti Välimäki, Anssi Auvinen, Saara Metso Clin Endocrinol. 2014;80(5):743-750. Abstract and Introduction Abstract Objective Previous studies suggest that patients with hyperthyroidism remain at an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity even after restoring euthyroidism. The mechanisms of the increased risk and its dependency on the different treatment modalities of hyperthyroidism remain unclear. The aim of this long-term follow-up study was to compare the rate of hospitalizations for cardiovascular causes and the mortality in hyperthyroid patients treated surgically with an ageand gender-matched reference population. Patients and Measurements A population-based cohort study was conducted among 4334 hyperthyroid patients (median age 46 years) treated with thyroidectomy in 1986–2007 in Finland and among 12 991 reference subjects. Firstly, the hospitalizations due to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) were analysed until thyroidectomy. Secondly, the hazard ratios for any new hospitalization due to CVDs after the thyroidectomy were calculated in Cox regression analysis adjusted with the prevalent CVDs at the time of thyroidectomy. Results The risk of hospitalization due to all CVDs started to increase already 5 years before the thyroidectomy, and by the time of the operation...

Words: 2440 - Pages: 10

Free Essay

Subclinical Hypothyroidism

...Proposal I. Title: Subclinical hypothyroidism. The importance of screening, treating and management of patients with slightly elevated TSH levels when compared to reference ranges. II. Problem: Purpose of the Study:  Subclinical hypothyroidism is defined as an elevated serum TSH level with a normal serum free T4 concentration. Whereas hypothyroidism is an elevated serum TSH level along with a decreased serum T4 concentration. In subclinical hypothyroidism the TSH level is usually above 4.5 mIU/L but not greater than 10 mIU/L. Subclinical hypothyroidism is a common condition discovered by thyroid screening. According to the review of Helfand and Redfern, 5% to 10% of adult women have an elevated TSH level.5 Controversy persists about screening for subclinical hypothyroidism and the TSH level at which treatment should be initiated. A 1998 position paper from the American College of Physicians questioned whether there were sufficient data to recommend treatment of patients with subclinical hypothyroidism.6 A 2004 publication from the US Preventive Services Task Force found that the data were insufficient to recommend for or against screening in adults.7In 2002, a consensus development panel sponsored by the American Thyroid Association, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, and the Endocrine Society found insufficient evidence to support screening and recommended against treating patients with a TSH concentration between 4.5 and 10 mIU/L.8 Because endocrinologists...

Words: 1898 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Com/155

...Alzheimer’s disease and dementia have similar characteristics, the treatment for the disease is based on symptoms as well as how the diseases are acquired. Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia so they are very closely related. (Fraller, 2013) Knowing the slight differences between the two diseases could, in some cases, mean a cure. Both Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are caused by a dysfunction in the brain. In Alzheimer’s disease, there is a loss of brain cells brought on by age. Studies have shown that 10% of all people over the age of 65 and 50% of people over the age of 85 have Alzheimer’s. Out of all those people, only 1% of them inherited the disease. Someone who has experienced multiple head injuries or high insulin levels are also at a greater risk of acquiring Alzheimer’s. On the other hand, dementia is caused by changes to the brain. These changes may be caused by a stroke, brain tumors, or even head injuries. Diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, hyperthyroidism, B12 deficiency, and fluid build-up on the brain have also been known to cause dementia. (Healthwise Incorporated, 2011) Once the causes of the two diseases have been determined, it is important to discuss the symptoms. The similarities between the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are typically what dupe people into thinking they are the same disease. Both diseases will cause memory loss. This is the most obvious symptom because patients will forget things like personal hygiene, they may...

Words: 1201 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Myocardial Infarction

...Myocardial Infarction Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States; approximately 500,000-700,000 deaths related to the coronary artery occur each year. Approximately 1.5 million cases of myocardial infarction occur annually in the United States. Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is the irreversible necrosis of heart muscle secondary to prolonged ischemia. This usually results from an imbalance in oxygen supply and demand, which is most often caused by plaque rupture with thrombus formation in a coronary vessel, resulting in an acute reduction of blood supply to a portion of the myocardium. Patients with typical myocardial infarction may have the following prodromal symptoms: Intense sharp chest pain, radiation of chest pain up to neck, shoulder, jaw and down left arm, ventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation or flutter, Coughing, wheezing, Fever, Fatigue, chest discomfort, and Malaise. Atherosclerosis is the disease primarily responsible almost 90% of myocardial infarctions that result from an acute thrombus that obstructs an atherosclerotic coronary artery. Plaque rupture and erosion are considered to be the major triggers for coronary thrombosis. Following plaque erosion or rupture, platelet activation and aggregation, coagulation pathway activation, and endothelial vasoconstriction occur, leading to coronary thrombosis and occlusion. The damage in the myocardium is essentially the result of a tissue response that...

Words: 913 - Pages: 4

Free Essay

Ecg Basics and Abnormal Ecg

...ELECTROCARDIO-graphy (E.C.g.) Uses: - To detect arrhythmias To diagnose chamber hypertrophy To diagnose myocardial infarction Electrocardiogram is the graphic representation of electrical changes occurring in the cardiac muscle. It is recorded by using surface electrodes. These are of two types: Bipolar leads Unipolar leads Bipolar leads Lead I-Right wrist and left wrist Lead II –Right wrist and left ankle Lead III- Left wrist and left ankle Unipolar leads - Limb leads and chest leads a. Limb leads- aVR – right wrist aVL –left wrist aVF – left ankle b. Chest leads- V1-4th right intercostal space at the sternal border V2-4th left intercostal space at the sternal border V3- between V2 & V4 V4- at the midclavicular line in the left 5th intercostal space V5- at the anterior axillary line in the same horizontal plane V6- at the mid-axillary line in the same horizontal plane V3R - on the right side – position same as that of V3 V4R - on the right side – position same as that of V4 E.C.g. - - paper speed-25mm/sec horizontally 1mm(one small square)=0.04sec (one large square=0.04x5=0.2sec vertically 1mm=0.1mv P-wave- atrial depolarisation –upright width – 2.5mm=0.1sec QRS - ventricular de-polarisation width – 1-2.5mm=0.04-0.1sec average 0.08sec height – variable PR- interval-from the...

Words: 838 - Pages: 4

Free Essay

Study Guide

...Final Exam Study Guide Important to Know the function of anterior and posterior pituitary gland. Anterior Pituitary Gland: (Adenohypophysis) The anterior pituitary gland regulates several physiological processes including stress, growth, reproduction and lactation (Adrenal, liver, bone, thryroid and gonads). -It is regulated by negative feedback and the hypothalamus. Major hormones: ACTH: Stimulates the adrenal cortex. TSH: Thyroid stimulating hormone, promotes secretion of thyroid hormone. FSH: Follicle-stimulating hormone, promotes growth of reproductive system. LH: Luteinizing hormone. Promotes sex hormone production GH: Growth hormone, promotes growth, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. PRL: Prolactin, Milk production and progesterone/estrogen. -Hormones are secreted from the hypothalamus to the A. Pituitary so these hormones can be released. Posterior Pituitary Gland: Mainly axons extended from the hypothalamus. These axons contain and release neurohypophysial hormones oxytocin and vasopressin. Oxytocin: Targets the uterus, and mammary glands causing contractions and lactation. Vasopressin (ADH): Antidiuretic hormone, arginine vasopressin, argipressin. Stimulates water retention absorbs it back into blood causing raises blood pressure by contracting arterioles, and inducing male aggression. Very Important to know and understand Diabetic Ketoacidosis Pathophysiology: -In DKA, the lack of insulin prevents glucose from being utilized by the tissues...

Words: 4739 - Pages: 19

Premium Essay

Obesity Epidemic: A Case Study

...diseases can be reversed with weight loss. It is important to distinguish the difference between patients who are obese and those who are overweight. Overweight...

Words: 1540 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Rup 1 Project

...RUP1 Project Western Governors University RUP1 Project Being a nurse is not just a profession, it is a privilege and an honor. With it being a profession where there is an opportunity to touch many patients’ lives, there must be regulations, laws, and codes that nurses must abide by. There are certain professional traits that a nurse must possess to make them not only a good nurse but a great nurse. There are various nursing theories that a nurse can base their practice upon and many historical figures of the past that guide the nurses of today and of the future. A. Functional Differences This section will discuss the functional differences between the regulatory agency that is the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) and the American Nurses Association (ANA) which is a professional nursing organization. As a regulatory agency, the CA BRN implements and enforces the Nursing Practice Act (NPA) which consists of laws that are meant to protect the public by regulating the practice of nursing. The BRN is made up of a nine member board that has the authority to make rules and regulations. Some of the various responsibilities of the BRN include: setting standards for nursing programs, approving nursing programs, evaluating licensure applications, issuing and renewing licenses, and taking disciplinary action on a nurse that violates the NPA. An example of a code from the NPA would be that of Code 2732.05 which states that “no person shall...

Words: 2050 - Pages: 9

Premium Essay

Concepts of Homeostasis P5 M2 D2

...Concept of homoeostasis The importance of homoeostatic control Homoeostasis is the regulation and maintain of the body's internal environment. The levels need to be controlled so that the body can function properly, for example enzymes work at optimum temperatures/ pH levels around the body, so in order to function the internal environments must be controlled. Levels which are controlled tend to oscillate between high and low about the normal/ set point. Blood glucose levels: It is detected by the alpha and beta cells in the pancreas that the normal glucose levels are between 70-110 mg. When the blood glucose has been risen, this is detected by beta cells and they become activated, they secrete insulin which inhibits the alpha cells (negative feedback) and once it has reached its target cells it acts by causing cells to take up more blood glucose from the blood and can increase metabolism so the glucose is used. Glucose can also be converted into glycogen where it is used as an energy store. All of this lowers blood glucose levels. If the blood glucose levels get too low, alpha cells detect this and secrete glucagon; this inhibits the beta cells and causes glycogen to be converted into glucose. It can also turn fat into glucose to raise blood glucose levels. Uncontrolled regulation of blood glucose levels is known as diabetes mellitus, high blood sugar is known as hyperglycaemia, and opposite being hypoglycaemia. Heart Rate: Your heart rate increases when you exercise...

Words: 1937 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Med Surge Process Paper

...Med Surge Process Paper Nur122-201 Human Needs in Health and Illness II Patient is an 80 year old female and her initials are ERH. She is a white, protestant, widow who currently lives at home with her daughter-in-law and grand-daughter. They live in a rancher style home with a wide landing and steps that enable her to use her walker to ambulate in her home. Her birthdate is June 14, 1931. During the initial assessment with the patient, she said that she was formerly employed with the Singer Sewing Machine Company as a book-keeper for 17 years. Upon retirement she and her husband moved back to Delaware and opened one of the first video stores in the state. Patient stated that their life together had been quite an adventure. Patient was admitted to the hospital on January 26, 2012 with symptoms of congestive heart failure. Patient denies that she has difficulties obtaining or affording her medications and that she has oxygen at home. Patient is currently being prescribed the following medications and she has no known allergies. |Medication |Route |Dose |Amount |Reason patient is taking | |Magnesium Oxide |PO |400 mg |1 tablet |Electrolyte replacement | |Pantoprazole |PO |40 mg |1 tablet |GERD | |Atorvastatin...

Words: 3191 - Pages: 13

Premium Essay

Biology Notes

...Biology- The scientific study of life. Life is structured on a size scale ranging from the molecular (smallest components of life) to the global (Earth) scale. Biology encompasses a large variety of life on earth. Uses of Biology in every day life: Molecular Biology – (Biology that deals with the smallest components of life such as cells, DNA, RNA) is used to solve crimes and reveal ancestry. Ecology- The scientific study of interactions among organisms and their environment is used to address environmental issues. Neuroscience- Field in biology that deals with brains; and Evolutionary science- the study of the evolution of organisms are being used to reshape psychology and sociology. Characteristics of Life: Living things are organized – The organs or vital components that make up a living organism each perform a specific function in an organized way such that it allows the organism to live. Regulation – All living organisms have the ability to regulate and accommodate to changes in their environment in order to stay alive. Growth and Development – Living organisms have the ability to grow and develop. Energy Utilization – Living organisms use energy or convert energy from a food source in order to carry or be able to perform different functions. For example, the human body utilizes carbohydrates found in food as a source of energy. With this energy, humans are able to perform simple tasks such as walking, talking, breathing, etc. Response to environment – Similar...

Words: 6992 - Pages: 28

Premium Essay

Sleeping Disorder: Causes and Effects to an Individual

...Sleep Disorder: Causes and effects to an individual Most of us have already or are experiencing trouble in sleeping every night or every time we’re trying to sleep. This might be normal and usually temporary due to stress, night terrors or some different issues. But if sleep problems are a regular occurrence and interfere with the daily life, we may be suffering from a sleep disorder. Sleep disorders cause more than just sleepiness, there are so many causes. The lack of quality of sleep can have a negative impact on our energy, emotional balance, and health to us. Sleep disorders also are serious enough to interfere with our normal physical, mental and social state. And in worst case, death because of sleepiness and mental condition cause of sleeping disorders. Sleep can affect our overall health. In many cases, people in good health tend to sleep well, whereas those suffering from repeated sleeping problems might have an underlying medical or mental health problem, it may be in minor or serious. Sleeping well is good to physical health and emotional well-being. Unfortunately, even minimal sleep loss can take a toll on mood, energy, efficiency, and ability to handle stress. People with daytime sleepiness are physically fatigue, have a tendency of falling asleep in unsuitable places at unsuitable times, and have poor concentration. Ignoring sleep problems and disorders can lead to poor health, accidents, impaired job performance, and relationship stress. It’s not normal...

Words: 3248 - Pages: 13