The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck. It is an endocrine gland and is responsible for producing hormones. The overproduction or underproduction of thyroid hormones can lead to a variety of thyroid diseases. These diseases can have various symptoms and while they aren’t necessarily life-threatening, they can lead to a very poor quality of life if left unchecked. It is also essential to treat these diseases as soon as possible so that they do not lead to any other complications. The following are the methods of diagnosis and treatment for different types of thyroid diseases, along with their causes and symptoms:

• Hyperthyroidism: A blood test is used to measure the level of thyroxine (thyroid hormone) and thyroid-stimulating hormone. High thyroxine and low thyroid-stimulating hormone levels are an indication of an overactive thyroid gland. To treat this condition, antithyroid medications such as methimazole are given to prevent the overproduction of these hormones. Surgery can also be done for the removal of the thyroid gland.
• Hypothyroidism: Similar to the previous condition, a blood test will be performed for diagnosis. Low thyroxine levels and high thyroid-stimulating hormone levels indicate an underactive thyroid gland. As the thyroid hormone is produced in lower quantities in this condition, the treatment option is to take thyroid hormone pills. However, getting the dosage right is of utmost importance as taking higher doses can lead to the development of hyperthyroidism symptoms.
• Hashimoto’s disease: In addition to high levels of TSH and low levels of thyroid hormone, the blood test will also show the presence of abnormal antibodies, as this disease is also an autoimmune disorder. While there is no complete cure for the condition yet, hormone-replacing medication can be used to increase the levels of thyroid hormones and lower the levels of TSH. Treatment also results in the symptoms subsiding.
• Graves’ disease: An enlarged thyroid gland found through a simple physical exam, along with enlarged bulging eyes, increased pulse rate, increased blood pressure, and increased metabolism indicates the presence of this condition in an individual. While the autoimmune diseases cannot be stopped, the repercussions can be significantly controlled. Beta-blockers can be used to control anxiety, rapid heart rate, and sweating. Antithyroid medications are used to control the excessive production of thyroid hormones. As a permanent measure, the thyroid can be removed through surgery.
• Goiter: In addition to the swelling found through physical examination, and the result of blood tests, an ultrasound test can also be performed to check for swelling or nodules to diagnose this condition. If the condition is a result of iodine deficiency, taking small doses of iodine can be of help. Radioactive iodine can shrink the thyroid gland to its normal size. A part of the gland can be removed through surgery also.
• Thyroid nodules: These nodules can be detected through an ultrasound, CT scan, or an MRI, in addition to a physical examination. Unless the nodules are cancerous, which is a rare situation, they don’t need any treatment particularly. However, radioactive iodine can be used to shrink the nodules if they grow in size.