Although both share many of the symptoms, there are certain symptoms distinctive of each.

The diagnosis and treatment also differ.

Verywell / Michela Buttignol

What Is Hyperthyroidism?

Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism Symptoms

Verywell / Michela Buttignol

Common causes of hyperthyroidism include:

What Is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism pops up if the body doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones.

These complications involve many of the same organ systems but often in very different ways.

Isabel Casimiro, MD, PhD

Treatment

The treatments for hyperthyroidism are different from those for hypothyroidism.

Medications, radiation, surgery, or a combination of treatments may be prescribed to treat hyperthyroidism.

Taken daily, it can start to normalize thyroid hormone levels within one to two weeks.

Summary

Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid gland, and hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid gland.

Hyperthyroid treatment is based on slowing thyroid hormone production, while hypothyroid treatment involves hormone replacement therapy.

Most people with thyroid disease can manage their condition with medication or medical procedures.

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