Thyroid doctor from Mainz: Psyche and thyroid
Thyroid doctor from Mainz explains how the function of the thyroid affects the psyche
MAINZ. ‘Small but mighty’, this much-quoted saying also applies to the thyroid gland. Thyroid specialist Professor Dr med. Dr h.c. Christian Wüster, who heads the Hormone and Metabolism Centre in Mainz, knows that the thyroid gland influences not only the function of organs, but also the metabolism and psyche through the hormones it produces like no other organ. ‘Hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism and other thyroid disorders can have a significant impact on the mental state of patients,’ the endocrinologist emphasises. What connections play a role here?
Thyroid doctor in Mainz describes symptoms of thyroid dysfunction
In medical terms, an underactive thyroid is known as hypothyroidism and an overactive thyroid as hyperthyroidism. Both dysfunctions of the organ can significantly disrupt mental balance and impair quality of life. The symptoms are varied. If the thyroid gland becomes hyperactive, those affected are often nervous or aggressive, easily irritated, jumpy or even anxious. They find it extremely difficult to relax. They start sweating quickly, have trouble sleeping and may even experience palpitations and atrial fibrillation. This can be accompanied by diarrhoea, tiredness and weakness as well as weight loss and osteoporosis. Hypothyroidism often leads to depressive moods, tiredness, difficulty concentrating and rapid exhaustion.
Those affected have a fluctuating emotional state and may even have suicidal thoughts. They may also experience reduced reflexes, a reduced libido and a slowed heartbeat. Diagnosing thyroid dysfunction can be a challenge because the symptoms are difficult to recognise. ‘This makes it all the more important to consult a thyroid doctor,’ advises Prof Wüster. It is also important to rule out the possibility that the disease is a consequence of old age. After all, around two per cent of the population suffer from an underactive thyroid after the age of 60.
Depressive mood: clarification by a thyroid doctor is important
Postpartum women also represent a risk group for the development of so-called post partum thyroiditis. It is associated with increased thyroid antibody levels and functional disorders of the organ. This results in depression, constant fatigue and severe mood swings. According to thyroid specialist Professor Wüster, if this condition persists, the thyroid gland should always be examined. In general, the specialist advises patients with severe mood swings or depressive moods to have their thyroid gland examined. The right therapy with hormone replacement preparations (thyroid hormones such as L-thyroxine and others) can quickly bring about an improvement.
