Explain how hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism can affect the body.

Explanation

Over activity of the thyroid, cancer of the gland or development of nodules of thyroid lead to hyperthyroidism. In adults abnormal growth causes a disease called exophthalamic goiter, with characteristically protruded eyeballs. Hyperthyroidism also affects the physiology of the body (increased metabolic rate). Inadequate sup ply of iodine in the diet results in hypothyroidism and enlargement of the thyroid gland. This condition is called simple goiter. During pregnancy, due to hypothyroidism defective development of the growing baby leads to a disorder called cretinism. Physical and mental growth gets severely stunted (Thyroid dwarf) due to untreated .congenital hypothyroidism. (deficiency of thyroid hormones by birth). Stunted growth mental retardation, low intelligence quotient, abnormal skin, deafness and mutism are some of the characteristic featụres of the this disease. In adult women, hypothyroidism may cause irregular menstrual cycles. In adults the hypothyroidism results in a condition called myxedema, Lethargy, mental impairment, intolerance to cold, puffiness of face and dry skin and some of the symptoms of myxedema.