Main causes of thyroid problems
Autoimmune diseases: The most common cause is when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland.
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: This destroys the gland and reduces hormone production (hypothyroidism).
Graves’ disease: This overstimulates the gland and increases hormone production (hyperthyroidism).
Iodine deficiency: The body needs iodine to make thyroid hormone. Too little or too much iodine in the diet can cause problems.
Genetics: If your parents or siblings have thyroid problems in your family, you are more likely to develop them.
Hormonal changes: During pregnancy and after childbirth, women experience major hormonal changes that can affect the thyroid gland.
Side effects of medications: Long-term use of certain medications, such as lithium, can disrupt thyroid function.
Radiation to the neck: People who have had radiation to the neck as part of cancer treatment may experience thyroid dysfunction.
Thyroid nodules: Tumors in the thyroid gland can sometimes cause excessive hormone production.
