Are Flu Symptoms Common With Thyroid Problems?
Thyroid disease affects millions of Americans, primarily women. With new cases on the rise each year, Americans are becoming more aware of thyroid conditions. Many symptoms are associated with thyroid problems, all of which vary between individual and type of condition. Some of these symptoms are similar to those associated with the flu virus, which can make detection of thyroid disease difficult unless seen by a doctor.
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Thyroid Function
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The thyroid is a gland in the neck, which acts to distribute hormones throughout the body. These hormones control basic bodily functions such as metabolism, blood pressure and body weight. Thyroid problems develop when the amount of hormones produced are disrupted, causing those basic functions to lose control. Although thyroid problems are not usually life-threatening, they are a daily nuisance when left untreated.
Types of Thyroid Disease
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There are two primary types of non-cancerous thyroid disease: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid creates too many hormones and becomes overactive. These hormones are called triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Hyperthyroidism can also lead to another thyroid condition called Grave's disease. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not create enough hormones and the gland becomes enlarged as a result. The treatment of hyperthyroidism can sometimes lead to hypothyroidism.
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Symptoms
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Flu-like symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism include frequent bowel movements, sweating, increased pulse, clammy skin, diarrhea, tremors, skin flushing, weakness and vomiting. Other symptoms include increased appetite, unintentional weight loss, irregular menstrual cycles and restlessness. Flu-like symptoms associated with hypothyroidism include weakness, fatigue, joint pain, hoarseness and muscle pain. Other symptoms include unintentional weight gain, puffiness, depression, sensitivity to cooler temperatures and constipation.
Treatment
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Surgery is not necessary for either type of thyroid problem, with the exception of severe cases. Hyperthyroidism is usually treated with medication and sometimes with radioiodine treatments to directly stop the hormone over-activity. Hypothyroidism is treated with medication, such as levothyroxine and needs to be taken for the remainder of the patient's life. Upon treatment for either disease, symptoms will be alleviated almost immediately.
Warning
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If any of the above symptoms are experienced, it is vital to see a doctor as soon as possible. Even if thyroid disease is later ruled out, it is better to receive confirmation of this instead of letting a potential thyroid problem worsen. A blood test and perhaps an ultrasound will be used to detect thyroid problems.
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