Causes & Risk Factors of Thyroid Disorders

Understanding why thyroid problems develop helps you address the root cause rather than just the symptoms. Here we outline the conditions that lead to an underactive or overactive thyroid and who is most at risk.

Causes of Hypothyroidism

Autoimmune & Other Causes

  • Hashimoto’s disease – your immune system attacks the thyroid, causing inflammation and reduced hormone production.
  • Iodine deficiency – without enough iodine in the diet, your body can’t make adequate thyroid hormone.
  • Thyroiditis – inflammation from postpartum changes, viral infections or autoimmune processes temporarily lowers hormone levels.
  • Thyroid surgery or radiation therapy – removing or damaging thyroid tissue reduces its ability to produce hormones.
  • Medications – certain drugs, such as lithium or amiodarone, can impair thyroid hormone production.

Why These Causes Matter

An underactive thyroid usually develops slowly. Autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s are the most common cause worldwide. Iodine deficiency still plays a role in regions where iodised salt isn’t widely used. Postpartum thyroiditis is transient, but without treatment it can swing between hyperthyroid and hypothyroid phases. Understanding the cause guides the most effective treatment.

Causes of Hyperthyroidism

Main Triggers of an Overactive Thyroid

  • Graves’ disease – an autoimmune condition causing excessive thyroid hormone production.
  • Thyroid nodules – benign lumps that secrete too much hormone, sometimes called toxic nodules or multinodular goitre.
  • Thyroiditis – inflammation can temporarily release large amounts of stored hormone into your bloodstream.
  • Excess iodine – from overusing iodine supplements or certain medications, leading to too much thyroid hormone production.
  • Postpartum changes – after childbirth, some women develop a temporary hyperthyroid phase before it resolves or shifts into hypothyroidism.

Understanding the Overactive Phase

When the thyroid is overactive, hormone levels surge. Graves’ disease is the most common autoimmune cause and often co‑exists with eye problems. Toxic nodules produce hormone independent of normal regulation. Thyroiditis releases stored hormones in bursts and may be part of a two‑phase thyroid dysfunction. Recognising the underlying trigger informs appropriate therapy.

Who Is at Risk?

Certain people are more likely to develop thyroid disorders. Identifying your risk can encourage early testing and preventive care.

Key Risk Factors

  • Being female – women are far more likely to experience thyroid disease than men.
  • Family history – having relatives with thyroid problems increases your risk.
  • Age over 60 – thyroid issues become more common as you get older.
  • Autoimmune diseases – conditions like type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis raise your risk.
  • Iodine imbalance – using non‑iodised salt or taking high‑dose iodine supplements without supervision.
  • Exposure to radiation or certain medications (e.g. lithium).

Why Risk Matters

Although thyroid disease can affect anyone, recognising your personal risk helps you stay vigilant. Women who are pregnant or recently gave birth, people with autoimmune conditions, and those on medications known to affect the thyroid should monitor their hormone levels regularly. Early detection leads to better outcomes and makes long‑term management easier.

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