Hypothyroidism vs Hyperthyroidism: Key Differences, Symptoms, Causes, TSH Levels, Diagnosis & Treatment

Thyroid disorders are so common in India that almost everyone knows a person who suffers from them. About 42 million people in India are affected by thyroid diseases, which are related to the butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that regulates metabolism, heart rate, body temperature and energy levels.

Two common diseases include hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, which happen due to underactivity and overactivity of the thyroid gland, respectively. 

Even after affecting the same gland, these two diseases have different responses in the body.

Let's learn the differences between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in terms of their symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, etc.

Hypothyroidism vs Hyperthyroidism: Quick Comparison Table

Before diving deep into our topic, let’s quickly compare the two common thyroid disorders, i.e., hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

What is the Thyroid Gland? 

The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck just under the Adam’s apple. Its job is to produce T₄ and T₃ hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, body temperature and energy levels in the body.

How Does the Thyroid Gland Work?

The thyroid gland absorbs iodine and produces the hormones T₃ and T₄, which are responsible for regulating body temperature, heart rate, metabolism and energy production. It does this through the following process:

• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is secreted from the pituitary gland.
• TSH then signals the thyroid gland to produce more hormone.
• The thyroid gland produces thyroxine (T₄) and triiodothyronine (T₃).
• T₃ and T₄ help to regulate body temperature, growth, metabolism and heart rate.

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. This slows down biological functions, and symptoms can include physical weariness, weight gain, constipation and feeling cold.

According to a study conducted in eight cities of India, around 1 in every 10 adults has hypothyroidism.

What is hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone. This speeds up the body’s metabolism and can lead to weight loss, a rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), anxiety, and excessive sweating.

Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism: Key Differences 

The major differences between the characteristics of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism include the following:

Hypothyroidism vs Hyperthyroidism Symptoms

These two thyroid disorders depend on how much thyroid hormone is produced by the body and show different symptoms that help to differentiate between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

What Causes Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism? 

There are many reasons why the production of thyroid hormone can be affected. It is important to find the reason so that the correct treatment can be given.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, while Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.

How to Diagnose Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism?

The diagnosis of thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism) is usually made by assessing symptoms, medical history (patient and family), and physical examination.

Healthcare professionals may conduct the following tests: 

Understanding TSH, T₃ and T₄ Levels

The levels of TSH, T₃, and T₄ help determine what thyroid disorder a person might be suffering from. 

• High TSH, especially with low T₄, usually shows hypothyroidism.
• While low TSH, with high T₄, suggests hyperthyroidism.

Thyroid hormone levels in cases of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism may become the following:

Treatment of Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

The common medications and measures used for hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism treatment  may include the following:

Also Read: Best Foods for Thyroid Patients

Can Hypothyroidism Become Hyperthyroidism (or vice versa)?

Even though these two disorders are completely different from each other, under some conditions, a transition may happen.

• Hyperthyroidism may become hypothyroidism because of radioactive iodine treatment or surgery.
• With lesser chances, autoimmune thyroid diseases may lead to a shift from hypo- to hyperthyroidism.
• Both diseases cannot occur in a person at the same time.

Which is More Dangerous: Hypothyroidism or Hyperthyroidism?

This question comes to everyone when they are reading about these conditions. The answer is that neither of these can be considered more dangerous. 

Both can cause serious issues if untreated. Complications may include:

Can You Prevent Thyroid Disorders?

You can’t always prevent thyroid problems, especially with autoimmune conditions. But there are a few things you can do to help keep your thyroid healthy:

• Get enough iodine but don’t take too much.
• Correct use of your thyroid medications
• Treatment of autoimmune diseases with medications
• Thyroid function tests if you have a family history
• If there is a family history, get thyroid function testing done.
• Going for frequent medical check-ups

When Should You See a Doctor?

Proper assessment and thyroid tests will help determine the root cause and provide proper treatment. See a health practitioner if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Always being tired
• Unexpected weight gain or loss with no explanation
• Rapid or slow heartbeat
• Swelling of the neck
• Thinning hair or severe hair loss
• Irregular periods
• Anxiety, depression or mood changes
• Feeling hotter or colder than usual

Conclusion

To put it simply, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are two widespread diseases of the thyroid gland, caused by the gland’s incorrect functioning.

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not make enough thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid makes too much thyroid hormone. Both have different symptoms and different treatment methods.

Early diagnosis, medical care and frequent monitoring allow patients with thyroid issues to successfully manage their illness and have a healthy and active life.