Thyroid disorders arise when the gland produces excess or inadequate thyroid hormone. Common thyroid disorders include hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's disease, Graves disease, goitre, thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer.

In women, thyroid disorders may produce symptoms, such as dry skin, constipation, missed or irregular periods, prolonged or heavy bleeding, depression, weight and temperature fluctuations.

Thyroid disorders can be diagnosed through blood tests that check levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), T3 and T4 hormones, thyroid antibodies. Iodide uptake tests and a PET scan of the thyroid gland can be useful for detecting abnormalities of the gland.

A condition known as thyroid storm is caused by untreated or undertreated hyperthyroidism. The patient's heart rate, blood pressure and temperature can be very high. Without aggressive treatment, it can be fatal.

Generally, thyroid disorders can be treated well with medications and lifestyle modifications. However, certain inherited conditions may cause changes in the DNA, which can increase the risk of developing cancer.