Thyroid disorders

The thyroid gland can become enlarged (goitre/struma) or can produce too much or too little thyroid hormone.

1 May 2021 | 5 Min. Reading Time

Overview

The thyroid gland can become enlarged (goitre/struma) or can produce too much or too little thyroid hormone. The main symptom is fatigue, accompanied by other specific complaints. Self-treatment without a doctor’s supervision is not recommended.

Symptoms

Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goitre/struma)

Palpable enlargement of the thyroid gland, with or without nodules
Rarely, shortness of breath, hoarseness, sore throat or earache

Insufficient hormone production (hypothyroidism)

Fatigue and low blood pressure
Skin and hair are dry and rough
Weight gain in spite of reduced appetite
Constipation
Women mostly experience menstrual disorders, while men suffer from erectile dysfunction

Excess hormone production (hyperthyroidism)

Restlessness and shaking hands
High blood pressure
Increased sweating
Weight loss in spite of a ravenous appetite
Diarrhoea
Unnaturally protruding eyes

Causes and treatment

Causes

Autoimmune disorders (Basedow’s disease, Hashimoto's disease)
Congenital dysfunctions
Side effect of operation or medication
Iodine deficiency/excess

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests

Testing of blood hormone levels
Ultrasound (sonography) of thyroid gland
Other specialised tests (e.g. scintigraphy)
Examination of tissue samples under a microscope

Possible therapies

Medication
Operation (removal of thyroid gland)
Radiation therapy

What can I do myself?

Self-treatment with iodine tablets is not recommended as they won't make a goitre go away.

In Switzerland, table salt has been iodised since 1925 to prevent iodine deficiency.

When to see a doctor?

Any enlargement of the thyroid gland (in particular fast-growing)
Persistent symptoms of insufficient or excess hormone production
- Changes in weight (weight loss, weight gain)
- Digestive problems (diarrhoea, constipation)
- Fatigue, restlessness, trembling