Question

A person is having goitre in his neck. How will you identify through symptoms, whether he is suffering from hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism?

Answer 1

1. The term "goitre" relates directly to a thyroid gland enlargement that is abnormal.
2. The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped endocrine gland in the front of the windpipe in the neck (trachea).
3. Thyroid hormones are produced, which aid in the regulation of the body's metabolism (the process that turns food into energy).
4. Edema of the thyroid gland can also cause swelling of the neck and larynx (voice box).
5. Iodine deficiency is the most prevalent cause of goitre. Hence it's also referred to as Iodine deficiency disorder.
6. Goitre develops in two conditions viz hypothyroidism (endemic goitre) and hyperthyroidism (exophthalmic goitre).
7. Hypothyroidism is diagnosed by low body temperature, low blood pressure, sluggishness and a tendency toward obesity.
8. While hyperthyroidism is diagnosed by high body temperature, high blood pressure, increased appetite, tachycardia (more than 100 heartbeats per minute), nervousness and bulging of eyeballs (exophthalmos).