There are two main types of thyroid problems that patients can experience. Hypothyroidism is the most common. It affects mostly women and occurs when a malfunction makes the thyroid gland start to shut down and not make enough thyroid hormone which the body uses to regulate metabolism. Hypothyroidism is characterized by a feeling of lethargy, depression, weight gain, coldness, and hair loss.
Hyperthyroidism is the opposite.
The thyroid produces too much hormone and makes the patient feel full of energy. If left untreated the syndrome can eventually cause heart damage and bone loss. Both problems are easily detected by a simple blood test and treated by medication.