What are Thyroid Disorders? Understanding Hormone Imbalances That Affect the Entire Body
Thyroid disorders occur when the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck, produces too much or too little hormone. These hormones regulate critical body functions, including metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy levels. When the thyroid becomes overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism), it can disrupt the body’s balance and cause widespread symptoms.
Common thyroid conditions include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, and thyroid cancer. These disorders affect millions of people in the U.S., especially women, and often go undiagnosed due to subtle symptoms. If left untreated, thyroid disorders can impact quality of life and lead to long-term complications.
