U3 Homronal disrptuions: Hypo/hyperthyroidism

Question 1

Compare hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism

Answer 1

Hypothyroidism
- underactive thyroid gland produces too little thyroxine
- caused by: insufficient iodine in diet, surgery for thyroid cancer, Hashimoto’s disease
- symptoms: slow heart rate, weight gain, lack of energy
- treatments: extra iodine in diet, tablets containing thyroid hormones

Hyperthyroidism
- overactive thyroid gland produces to much thyroxine
- caused by: thyroiditis, taking too much thyroid hormone, Grave’s disease
- symptoms: fast heart rate, weight loss, increased appetite
- treatments: drink containing radioactive iodine that is taken up by thyroid cells, and the radioactivity kills them