Thyroid disorders, which arise due to abnormal production of thyroid hormones or because of congenital developmental disorders, affect the quality of life, though, they are not fatal. The enlargement of the thyroid gland develops into a goiter. International Thyroid Awareness Week is celebrated from May 25 to 31.

About 200 million people have thyroid problems globally, but not many people are aware of the same. The two main functional disorders of the thyroid gland are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

Hypothyroidism is related to under-production of the hormones, which slows down the body's metabolism, and the patients feel cold, tired, and depressed. Patients also tend to gain weight despite a sensible diet and exercise. There is a possibility of increase in blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

The causes of hypothyroidism include lack of iodine, the deficiency of which is a leading cause of congenital hypothyroidism worldwide. Surgical removal of the thyroid gland or treatment with radioiodine can also lead to hypothyroidism. There is a possibility of congenital hypothyroidism, when babies are born without a thyroid gland or with one that is not properly functioning. Medicines like amiodarone, used to treat an abnormal heart rhythm, and lithium, used in psychiatric patients, may also cause hypothyroidism.