Imagine a scene where on a calm afternoon, Aunt Li attends a dance class in the community as usual. Suddenly, she felt her heart beat faster and sweat rained down. She thought it was just because she was jumping too hard, but when she got home, she found that she had lost weight without realizing it. At this time, her friend Uncle Zhang also shared his troubles: the tiredness and weight gain in the past few days have completely disrupted his original rhythm of life. The two went to the hospital together for a check-up, and the results were unexpected - Aunt Li was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism (hyperthyroidism), while Uncle Zhang was hypothyroidism (hypothyroidism). 
This story may sound a little bizarre, but it does happen to many middle-aged and elderly friends around us. Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, two seemingly opposite but strikingly similar thyroid diseases, often affect our lives silently. Not only can they change our weight, mood, and may even affect our heart health. But what exactly are they different about? Why are the symptoms so different when it is the same thyroid dysfunction? And most importantly, how do we distinguish and respond to these warning signs when our bodies appear? The thyroid gland, a small gland located on the front of our neck, plays an important role in regulating the body's metabolism. When the thyroid gland is dysfunctional, it causes two main diseases: hyperthyroidism (hyperthyroidism) and hypothyroidism (hypothyroidism). These two seemingly trivial diseases actually have a profound impact on human health. When hyperthyroidism occurs, the thyroid gland secretes too much thyroid hormone, causing the body's metabolism to accelerate. On the other hand, hypothyroidism is a deficiency of thyroid hormone secretion, which slows down the body's metabolism. Although these two conditions are opposites, they both have a serious impact on the quality of life of patients. The causes of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are varied, and may be related to genetics, environment, lifestyle habits, immune system abnormalities and other factors. For example, some populations may be more susceptible to these diseases because of genetic factors; Environmental pollution and inadequate iodine intake are also important contributing factors. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism are varied, but the most important feature is the accelerated metabolism of the body. Specifically, people with hyperthyroidism may experience several symptoms: Increased heart rate: This is one of the most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Due to the accelerated metabolism, the heart needs to work faster to meet the body's needs, resulting in a faster heartbeat and even palpitations. Weight loss: Patients with hyperthyroidism may experience significant weight loss even if they do not eat a reduction in the amount they eat. This is because the body's metabolic rate increases and the calories consumed increase. Mood swings: People with hyperthyroidism often experience mood swings, irritability, or anxiety, which is related to the effects of thyroid hormones on brain function. These symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions or simply a normal sign of old age, so it is important to recognize and properly understand the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. In hyperthyroidism, doctors usually develop a personalized plan based on the patient's specific condition. Methods include medications, radioactive iodine, and even surgery. In this process, reasonable diet and lifestyle adjustment are also auxiliary means that cannot be ignored. 
To understand the main symptoms of hypothyroidism (hypothyroidism), we need to focus on three core indicators: fatigue, weight change, and mental state. Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder that usually occurs in middle-aged and older people, especially women. 1.Persistent fatigue is one of the main symptoms of hypothyroidism. People with hypothyroidism often feel weak and are unable to regain their vitality even after adequate rest. This feeling of fatigue is different from general fatigue, it is more persistent and deeper. 2.Unprovoked weight gain: People with hypothyroidism have a slowed metabolism and may gain weight even if there are no changes in diet and physical activity. This weight gain is often confusing because it doesn't seem to be able to be addressed with ordinary diet control and exercise. 3.Mood changes can also cause psychological and emotional changes, such as depression and anxiety. These mood changes are not simple mood swings, but are closely related to changes in thyroid hormone levels. 1.Differences in energy levels Hyperthyroidism leads to excessive energy and vitality, while hypothyroidism brings a constant feeling of fatigue. People with hyperthyroidism may find it difficult to calm down and fall asleep even at night. In contrast, people with hypothyroidism may feel constantly tired and lack energy. 2.The opposite of weight change is in the case of hyperthyroidism, where weight may be lost despite increased appetite. This is because hyperthyroidism accelerates the metabolic rate in the body. Whereas, in the case of hypothyroidism, the metabolism in the body slows down, and even if the diet is not gained, the weight may increase for no reason. 
3.Contrast in psychological state: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism also show a clear contrast in psychological state. Hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety, irritability, and mood swings, while hypothyroidism can lead to depression and lack of interest. These psychological changes not only affect the patient's daily life, but may also affect their interpersonal relationships and work performance.