Autoimmune Disorders:
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: This is a condition in which the body attacks its own thyroid gland. This reduces thyroid function (hypothyroidism).
Graves’ Disease: This overstimulates the thyroid gland and causes it to produce too much hormone (hyperthyroidism).
Iodine Deficiency: The body needs iodine to produce thyroid hormone. A deficiency in iodine can cause the gland to swell and malfunction.
Genetic Factors: If your mother or siblings have thyroid problems in your family, you are more likely to have them.
Thyroiditis: Inflammation in the gland can cause hormones to leak into the bloodstream or eventually become ineffective.
Pregnancy: Some women experience changes in thyroid function after giving birth (postpartum thyroiditis).
Medications: Some medications (for example, those used for depression) can affect thyroid function.
