Final answer:
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is overactive, often caused by Graves' disease and leading to symptoms like weight loss and increased heart rate. Hypothyroidism is characterized by an underactive thyroid with insufficient hormone production, commonly due to Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and manifests as weight gain and fatigue. Both conditions can cause goiters and require careful management of thyroid hormone levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hyperthyroidism vs Hypothyroidism
Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are two conditions that reflect extremes of thyroid function. The thyroid hormone mainly produced by the thyroid gland includes T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), along with calcitonin. In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland is overactive, leading to an elevated level of thyroid hormone which ramps up the metabolism. This can manifest as weight loss, heat intolerance, increased heart rate, and sweating. Graves' disease, the chief cause of hyperthyroidism, is characterized by an immune response that stimulates excessive hormone production.
In contrast, hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid is underactive, producing insufficient thyroid hormones leading to a slowed metabolism. This can result in symptoms like weight gain, cold sensitivity, low heart rate, and fatigue. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a common cause, where the immune system attacks the thyroid. Both conditions can cause goiters due to either overstimulation or a compensatory response to hormone insufficiency.
Treatment usually involves addressing the thyroid hormone levels, with hyperthyroid patients often requiring medication to suppress hormone production, whereas hypothyroid patients may need hormone replacement therapy. The levels of supplementation or suppression must be carefully monitored to avoid over- or under-correction.