Question 1

hello docs. i was wondering can vertical ridges in my nails be a result of thyroid problems?

Accepted Answer

Vertical Nail Ridges: Yes, vertical nail ridges can be due to low thyroid function.

Question 2

are thyroid problems hereditary?

Accepted Answer

They can be: Most thyroid problems in the US are caused by auto-immunity, where the immune system misclassifies one or more thyroid proteins as foreign (not belong to that person) and makes antibodies that target the thyroid protein(s).  Auto-immune thyroid disease often does run in families, although family member may have different manifestations - goiter, nodules, too little or too much thyroid hormone.

Question 3

what are common thyroid problems?

Accepted Answer

Thryoid problems: The three most common thyroid problems are hypothyroid (low function), hyperthyroid (high function) and thyroid nodules.  The most common cause of hypothyroidism is hashimoto's thyroid disease.  The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is graves' disease.  Thyroid nodules are very common and are seen more with advancement of technology.  Most thyroid nodules are not cancerous.

Question 4

how to diagnose thyroid problems.?

Accepted Answer

Thyroid: Physical exam, blood work to check thyroid hormones, x-ray scans of the thyroid, biopsy.

Question 5

could you tell me what happens if you have thyroid problems?

Accepted Answer

It depends: It depends on what kind of thyroid problem you have.  Too much or too little thyroid hormone can make people feel badly, and affect their work, relationships, and happiness.  Nodules can grow and cause trouble swallowing, finding a comfortable position to sleep, or cause hoarseness.  Cancerous nodules can grow and spread to other body parts.  All of these are very treatable get checked!

Question 6

what are reasons why thyroid problems always happen in women ?

Accepted Answer

Thyroid: Most thyroid disorders are caused by autoimmune processes which are more common in women. Unfortunately it is still not know why this is.

Question 7

if my grandma has thyroid problems could i and what causes bad thyroid or what makes it bad?

Accepted Answer

Maybe: There are some forms of thyroid disorders that are inherited, like graves disease and hashimoto's (chronic autoimmune thyroiditis).  There are different forms of thyroid dysfunction like over active and under active thyroid.  They have different symptoms like fast heart rate for overactive (hyperthyroid).  Thyroid cancer can also be hereditary.  If you have concerns for your risk, see your doctor.

Question 8

could thyroid problems be easily missed?

Accepted Answer

Thyroid disease: Sometimes symptoms can be vague and it can be missed.

Question 9

how can you test for thyroid problems?

Accepted Answer

Usually blood tests: When there is a question of whether the thyroid is producing too little or too much hormone, blood tests will be ordered to determine the functioning of the thyroid gland.  In the case of an overactive gland, a thyroid scan may be helpful.  When there is a nodule or mass in the gland itself, ultrasound and fine needle aspiration are indicated in many cases.

Question 10

can thyroid problems cause weightloss?

Accepted Answer

High thyroid can: Excess thyroid hormone, or hyperthyroidism can lead to many body changes, including increased metabolism/heat production, tremors, fast heart rate and diarrhea. These effects may then lead to the weight loss that is commonly seen in hyperthyroidism. Most common causes of hyperthyroidism are graves' disease, over-active thyroid nodule(s), subacute thyroiditis and excessive thyroid pill intake.

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Doctor answers about:

Ridges in fingernails thyroid problems

A member asked:

Hello docs. i was wondering can vertical ridges in my nails be a result of thyroid problems?

A member asked:

Are thyroid problems hereditary?

A member asked:

What are common thyroid problems?

A member asked:

How to diagnose thyroid problems.?

A member asked:

Could you tell me what happens if you have thyroid problems?

A member asked:

What are reasons why thyroid problems always happen in women ?

A member asked:

If my grandma has thyroid problems could i and what causes bad thyroid or what makes it bad?

A member asked:

Could thyroid problems be easily missed?

A member asked:

How can you test for thyroid problems?

A member asked:

Can thyroid problems cause weightloss?

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