4 Underlying Causes of Thyroid Problems

Feeling exhausted, gaining weight, and sensitive to the cold? Or perhaps the opposite: restless, sweaty, and always on edge? These may be signs of a thyroid condition, which affects approximately 20 million Americans.

Ear, nose, and throat specialist Vandana Kumra, MD, provides expert diagnosis and treatment for thyroid disorders at ENT New York in New York City. Dr. Kumra uses advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive techniques to restore thyroid health. 

Located at the base of your neck, your thyroid gland produces hormones regulating vital bodily functions like metabolism, heart rate, and blood pressure. It can lead to complex symptoms when it’s not functioning correctly — making too much or too little thyroid hormone. Here, we take a look at four underlying causes of thyroid disorders.

1. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common cause of thyroid dysfunction, an autoimmune disorder that targets the thyroid gland. When the immune system attacks the thyroid, it causes inflammation and damage. 

Over time, this damage can lead to an underactive thyroid ( hypothyroidism), which includes symptoms such as:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Sensitivity to cold
• Dry skin
• Hair loss
• Muscle aches
• Depression and/or difficulty concentrating

You may also develop a goiter or swelling in your neck. 

2. Graves’ disease

Another autoimmune condition that causes thyroid problems is Graves’ disease. However, unlike Hashimoto’s, Graves’ disease causes your thyroid to produce too much thyroid hormone, known as hyperthyroidism.

If your thyroid is overactive, you may experience:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Anxiety and/or irritability
• Difficulty sleeping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Tremors
• Increased sweating and heat sensitivity
• Enlarged thyroid gland, or goiter
• Bulging eyes

Bulging eyes can be a sign of thyroid eye disease, which affects around 25% of people with Graves’ disease. Other symptoms may include eye pain or pressure, sensitivity to light, and puffy eyelids that don’t entirely cover the eyeball. 

3. Iodine deficiency

Your thyroid gland relies on iodine, an essential mineral, to function correctly. Since your body doesn’t produce iodine on its own, inadequate intake can lead to hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism from iodine deficiency is more common in regions with limited access to iodized salt. However, you may also be at risk if you don’t consume dairy products or fish. Pregnant women require more iodine in their diet to support both their health and the developing fetus.

4. Thyroid nodules

Thyroid nodules are often benign and don’t cause any symptoms. However, toxic adenomas, single nodules that produce excess thyroid hormone, may cause hyperthyroidism.

Rarely, a thyroid nodule may be cancerous. That’s why it’s crucial to have any changes in your thyroid evaluated by a trusted health care professional like Dr. Kumra.

If you’re experiencing thyroid symptoms, Dr. Kumra and the team at ENT New York are here to help you get the care you need. Contact our Manhattan office or book an appointment online today.