Schilddrüsenerkrankungen

Schilddrüsenerkrankungen are conditions affecting the thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. This gland produces hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are crucial for regulating metabolism, growth, and development. When the thyroid gland malfunctions, it can lead to a range of health issues.

One common type of thyroid disease is hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This can slow down the body's functions, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, dry skin, and depression. Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks the thyroid, is a frequent cause of hypothyroidism.

Conversely, hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. This accelerates bodily processes and can manifest as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, tremors, heat intolerance, and difficulty sleeping. Graves' disease, another autoimmune condition, is a leading cause of hyperthyroidism.

Other thyroid conditions include goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can occur with both hypo- and hyperthyroidism, or even with a normally functioning thyroid. Thyroid nodules, lumps that form within the thyroid gland, are also common and are usually benign but can sometimes be cancerous. Thyroid cancer, while less common, requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis of thyroid disorders typically involves blood tests to measure hormone levels, a physical examination, and sometimes imaging techniques like ultrasound or a thyroid scan. Treatment strategies vary depending on the specific condition and its severity, ranging from medication to manage hormone levels to surgery in cases of cancer or large goiters.