Most common thyroid problems include:
• Hypothyroidism: Lower than normal thyroid levels
• Hyperthyroidism: Higher than normal thyroid levels
• Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland
• Goiter: An abnormally increased size of the thyroid gland (a butterfly-shaped gland located below Adam’s apple)
• Thyroid cancer: Cancer of the thyroid gland

Common signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders in women include:
• Dry thinning hair
• Constipation
• Slow heart rate
• A hoarse voice
• Feeling very tired
• Muscle or joint pain
• Dry, pale skin
• Weight gain without any reason
• Heavier than usual menstrual bleeding
• Muscle weakness
• A puffy face
• Feeling cold when people around you do not feel cold

Tests conducted to detect thyroid disorders include TSH, T3, T4 and thyroid antibody tests. Doctors might also order a radioactive iodine uptake test, thyroid scan or ultrasound to determine the thyroid condition.

If hypothyroidism remains untreated for a long time, it can cause myxedema coma, a potentially fatal condition that needs immediate hormone treatment.

Yes, certain disorders of the thyroid gland, like thyroid nodules (lumps in the thyroid gland) can form malignant tumours, leading to cancer.