Thyroid facts |
Hypothyroidism (Under active Thyroid) is more common in women than men, with estimates that 10 times more women than men are affected. Hypothyroidism is usually gradually progressive with symptoms increasing as thyroid function deteriorates.
Hyperthyroidism, Graves' Disease & Thyroid Eye Disease
Hyperthyroidism, or Graves’ Disease, is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It is triggered by the immune system producing antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland to increase the size of the gland and produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormone.
Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid Cancer develops when thyroid cells divide in an abnormal way into one of the four types of thyroid cancer – Papillary, Follicular, Medullary and Anaplastic.
Congenital Hyperthyroidism
Congenital Hypothyroidism usually results when a baby is born without a thyroid gland, but there are many other causes of this disorder.
Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid Nodules are lumps in the Thyroid Gland. In most cases nodules will be benign. However 1 in 10 may be malignant (cancerous). Nodules may be either a “Single Nodule” or in clusters, often referred to as “Multi-Nodular Goitre".
Iodine Deficiency
Iodine Deficiency is the commonest worldwide cause of thyroid disorders. A low iodine diet can cause hypothyroidism, an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre) and can affect fertility.
Parathyroid Gland
Exposure to Radiation at a young age from dental x-rays, other forms of x-rays are the main causes in Australia of radiation exposure which can affect the function of the thyroid gland.