What is Hypo- and Hyper-thyroidism?
Under-active thyroid means your thyroid gland is unable to provide normal amount of thyroid hormone. In the same way, if the gland keeps on producing more thyroid hormone than normal, it is called over-active thyroid.
Hypo means under active: Hyper means overactive
What are the symptoms of Thyroid diseases?
The common symptoms of an underactive and overactive thyroid are as shown in the box below. Irregularity of periods and difficulty in having baby can be seen in women with both under- and over-active thyroids.
| Overactive - Hyperthyroidism | Under active - Hypothyroidism |
|---|---|
| - Irritable/ Excitable - Weight loss/ Weakness - Diarrhoea - Rapid heart rate - Feeling too warm - Hyperactivity in children | - Slow/ Sleepy - Weight gain/ Fluid retention - Dry skin/ Hair loss - Constipation/ Slow heart rate - Feeling too cold - Poor growth in children |