Thyroid Disease: Causes, Risks, and Symptoms

Risks of Thyroid Disease

If thyroid disease remains untreated it can lead to serious complications for the health of the individual. If an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) is left without treatment, it can cause heart problems, goitre (abnormal swelling), pregnancy complications, and in very rare cases, myxoedema coma.

An untreated overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can develop complications such as eye problems, pregnancy issues, and weakened bones. In certain cases, it is possible to develop serious, life-threatening conditions, like heart failure, an abnormally fast or irregular heart rate, and a ‘thyroid storm’, which causes a rapid heartbeat, high temperatures, confusion, and loss of consciousness.

Can Stress Cause Thyroid Disease?

Stress can contribute to making thyroid disorder and disease symptoms worse, as it can slow the metabolism of the body down, however, it cannot cause Thyroid Disease directly.

Is Thyroid Disease Hereditary?

Thyroid disease is often hereditary, and certain conditions that can cause thyroid issues, such as Hashimoto’s disease, can run in families.

Can it be cured?

All thyroid diseases can be managed to achieve its normal function, however, this frequently requires medication to main its normal state.