Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism: What’s the Difference?
A diagnosis of thyroid disease may be confusing to patients. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism sound similar but are different conditions with their own causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Bergen Medical Associates provides specialty care for patients across northern New Jersey. The endocrinology team provides treatments for different types of thyroid diseases, including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Here, we discuss hypothyroidism vs. hyperthyroidism and how both conditions are treated.
What Is the Thyroid?
The thyroid is a gland, located in the front of the neck, that is responsible for producing thyroid hormones. These hormones play an important role in regulating the metabolism, as well as maintaining blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate, and muscle function. They are also vital for growth and development, especially through childhood and adolescence.
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are both conditions that interfere with proper thyroid function. Their effects, however, are opposite one another. “Hypo-” is a prefix meaning down, below, or less than. Appropriately, hypothyroidism refers to an underactive thyroid that produces less hormones than it should. In contrast, “hyper-” means over, beyond, or excessive. Thus, hyperthyroidism refers to an over-active thyroid that produces too many hormones.
Symptoms: Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism
Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid does not produce or release enough hormones. This hormonal imbalance causes the metabolism to slow down significantly. Meanwhile, hyperthyroidism, also called overactive thyroid or Grave’s disease, is hypothyroidism’s opposite. It occurs when the thyroid gland produces and releases too many hormones. This causes the metabolism to accelerate.
What Are Hypothyroidism Symptoms?
Symptoms of hypothyroidism develop slowly but increase over time as the condition progresses. Severe hypothyroidism can have a significant impact on a person’s overall quality of life, with symptoms such as:
- Brain fog, or difficulty concentrating
- Depression and anxiety
- Dry skin and hair
- Fatigue, or persistent tiredness
- Frequent or heavy menstrual periods
- Sensitivity to cold temperatures
- Numbness or tingling in the hands
- Soreness or weakness in muscles
- Unexplained weight gain
- Constipation
- Drooping eyelids
- Puffiness around the eyes
If left untreated for long periods, a metabolism slowed by hypothyroidism can also lead to long-term health consequences. Heart issues, fertility issues, peripheral neuropathy, and gout are just a few conditions that can arise due to hypothyroidism. Some of these can be life-threatening, which is why it’s important to treat thyroid diseases early.
What Are Hyperthyroidism Symptoms?
As with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism symptoms impact the whole body. They may appear suddenly or develop slowly and include:
- Anxiety and irritability
- Hair loss or brittle hair
- Insomnia, or inability to sleep
- Lighter or missed menstrual periods
- Sensitivity to warm temperatures
- Hand tremors
- Rapid heart rate or palpitations
- Increased blood pressure
- Unexplained weight loss
- Diarrhea or frequent bowel movements
- Swelling or bulging eyes
Like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism can cause major health consequences if left untreated. Heart disease, fertility and pregnancy complications, osteoporosis, blood clots, stroke, and vision loss are all possible complications of hyperthyroidism.
How Are Thyroid Diseases Diagnosed?
Symptoms of thyroid disease can closely resemble other conditions. To receive the appropriate treatment, patients must first receive an accurate diagnosis. First, the physician performs a physical exam to check the thyroid for swelling and lumps. The physician will then conduct a blood test. By examining a sample of blood, doctors can determine whether thyroid hormone levels are abnormally high or low. Imaging tests may also be requested to confirm a diagnosis, such as:
- X-rays
- Computed tomography (CT) scans
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
- Thyroid uptake scan
- Ultrasound
Imaging tests may detect abnormalities in the thyroid structure that could be responsible for the change in function, helping physicians understand the cause better and plan a more effective treatment.
How Are Thyroid Diseases Treated?
The treatments for thyroid diseases will depend on which type is affecting the patient.
Hypothyroidism Treatment
The most common treatment for hypothyroidism is hormone replacement therapy. The patient is prescribed a medication that provides hormones that the thyroid won’t make naturally, bringing levels back up to normal. This medication can help patients lead healthy lives with no symptoms.
Hyperthyroidism Treatment
Because hyperthyroidism produces too many hormones, replacement therapy won’t work. Instead, there are several treatment options that may be used depending on the patient’s unique case:
- Medication: Some medications can block the thyroid’s ability to make hormones, helping to restore a normal balance.
- Beta-blockers: This medication type can help manage hyperthyroid symptoms but can’t treat the cause. It is best used alongside other treatments.
- Radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy: This therapy uses a strong drug that targets and destroys thyroid cells. It aims to destroy the whole thyroid.
- Surgery: A surgeon may remove all or part of the thyroid.
Patients who are treated with RAI therapy or surgery may develop hypothyroidism, to be treated using hormone therapy.
Learn More About Thyroid Diseases at Bergen Medical Associates
Though hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can both cause serious medical complications, they are fortunately very treatable. Bergen Medical Associates offers treatments for these and other conditions at locations across northern New Jersey, helping patients live normal and healthy lives. To learn more about hypothyroidism vs. hyperthyroidism, contact us. To start treatment for thyroid disease, request an appointment today.
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