Deciding to study medicine is a major commitment that should be made after careful consideration of different career paths and options. Surprisingly, not many medical aspirants know of options apart from MBBS. If you’re passionate about healthcare and wish to make a difference in lives, you need to make the right decision with proper contemplation. 

For your understanding, let’s dissect the three major options: MBBS, FMGE, and USMLE and weigh in on their merits and demerits so you can make an informed decision about the path that best aligns with your aim and aspirations.

MBBS: 

It’s an abbreviation of Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery. A 5-year course with an additional one-year internship at an affiliated hospital, MBBS is the usual choice for several medical aspirants. The curriculum encompasses a wide range, with anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, forensic medicine, community medicine, surgery, medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology, with several other specialties to study. There are clinical rotations in MBBS, meaning that students get first-hand experience as future doctors in several departments, including medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology, to cite a few. 

There are several advantages to choosing to pursue an MBBS career. For starters, it offers the medical aspirant a wide range of career opportunities where they could either work as a general practitioner or choose to specialize in cardiology, ophthalmology, oncology, neurology, etc. They could also contribute to the academic section through medical research and advancements or become faculty members at medical colleges and universities. Additionally, several public health organizations are constantly looking for MBBS doctors to collaborate with them to improve community health. An MBBS doctor may also choose to hold an administrative position in hospitals or healthcare organizations. MBBS is a globally accepted degree recognized worldwide, enabling practice opportunities abroad. One studying and practicing MBBS may be exposed to a diverse range of patients with different health issues, which leads to the maximization of their clinical experience. 

The demerits or disadvantages are, however, present despite several benefits. For instance, a specialized MBBS doctor may not fetch the same amount of earnings as a specialized doctor or one practicing in a developed country. The curriculum of MBBS is extensive, requiring extra hours of study and clinical rotations.

FMGE:

The Foreign Medical Graduate Examination, abbreviated as FMGE, is a compulsory licensing exam for citizens of India, restricted to only those who have completed medical education from foreign universities to practice it in their own country. Conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE), it is an examination administered to ensure the competency of foreign medical graduates. The exam format is that of a multiple-choice questionnaire with only a single stage. The subjects that form the syllabus of the exam are anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, forensic medicine, community medicine, surgery, medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology. 

The advantage of getting selected in FMGE allows the medical practitioner to practice in their home country. The FMGE-qualified doctors are also allowed to opt for government jobs in healthcare institutions in India. The demerit, however, is that the exam is extremely competitive with a high failure rate and has a low earning potential as compared to USMLE graduates or healthcare practitioners in advanced countries.

USMLE: 

The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is a three-series exam devised to assess the knowledge levels and clinical skills of international medical graduates (IMGs) wishing to be doctors in the United States. The exam is known to be rigorous and competitive, requiring dedication and preparation from the candidate. Similar to FMGE, it has a multiple-choice exam format but consists of three exams or stages, unlike one. The advantage of choosing USMLE is that it offers a high earning potential to the practitioner and opens several opportunities for prestigious residency and fellowship programs. It also is recognized globally. 

In addition to being competitive, the disadvantage of USMLE is that it is financially burdensome and proves challenging for cultural adjustment. The VISA process, licensing requirements, and more might also feel like a hassle when applying for the exam. 

Whatever your choice, deciding on the right medical career is a significant milestone in your life. Important factors to consider here are personal aspirations, financial resources, and desired lifestyle. Keeping in mind the factors and information, choose a path that aligns closest to your dream of becoming a doctor. For additional queries, contact MedMonk to ease your decision-making process and more. 

Are you a first-year MBBS student, about to embark on your learning? Are you stressed about not having the right resources? If yes, then this guide is designed for you, so you can not only make the most of your material but also excel at your endeavors on your journey to be a future doctor! 

It is a no-brainer that the first year of your medical college will be enveloping the three greats of the body and its functions, namely Anatomy, Biochemistry, and Physiology. We shall discuss these three topics, with respect to their importance in your syllabus.

1. Anatomy: This is the study of the structure and organization of organisms. A branch of morphology, it forms an integral part of biological sciences. While this study focuses on both the microscopic (histology) and macroscopic (gross) levels, it becomes important to study the subject through staining, optical or imaging methods. The standard books for Anatomy are: 

• Netter’s Atlas of Human Anatomy: This book comes with intensive illustrations which come in handy for studying a subject like Anatomy. 
• Gray’s Anatomy: With a text that’s more detailed and comprehensive as opposed to Netter’s, this book is a classic recommendation for anyone studying the subject. 
• BD Chaurasia Handbook of General Anatomy: A classic favorite, BD Chaurasia’s Anatomy book includes a deep overview of the various subdivisions in human anatomy. With ample illustrations, this book is liked and recommended by students and medical professionals alike. 
• Vishram Singh’s General Anatomy: With merely 268 pages and concise language, this book is perfect for those looking to learn about anatomy without the extraneous details. Its 4-color illustrations are so articulate that they are easy to reproduce in examinations. 

2. Biochemistry: The study of chemical processes in living organisms, Biochemistry is a science that is an amalgamation of biology and chemistry. It is a laboratory-based study that looks at the structure, composition, and chemical reactions of human beings. The recommended books for Biochemistry are:

• Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry: A classic undergraduate textbook that is regarded as the key reference because of its elucidative nature. It highlights the structure and function of the cellular constituents. 
• Harper’s Illustrated Biochemistry: A clear choice if you’re looking for clear concise elucidation of the text with a high readability factor for students who are just getting started. 

• Textbook of Biochemistry for Medical Students by Damodaran M. Vasudevan: Divided into six sections, this book is a comprehensive guide that deals with the chemical basics of life, metabolism, and clinical and applied biochemistry at its least. It is a clear winner for those looking for an excellent revision guide with a pictorial representation. 

3. Physiology: The scientific study dealing with the functions of living organisms and their physical and chemical processes taking place in cells, organs, organ systems, and more. It constitutes one of the most fundamental parts of medicine and the study of medicine. The recommendations for Physiology books are: 

• Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology: A tailor-made book for those looking for a comprehensive know-it-all guide. Authored first almost 55 years ago, this book still stands as one of the most sought-after because of its unique formatting that helps in better retention of topics and concepts. 
• GK Pal’s Textbook of Physiology: Written by a notable author, this book is one of the celebrated ones in medical education because of its comprehensive content and structured learning objectives. Divided into must-know and desirable-to-know categories, this book continues to get positively reviewed for its content. 

Studying might seem difficult at first, but using these three additional tips might help you maximize your retention:

1. Take running notes as you read. Writing helps you memorize things better. A handy pen and a notebook are always a great option to retain information through your methods. 
2. Highlight important information and key concepts. Medical jargon can seem a bit much at times, but emphasizing the right words and concepts enables you to revise faster and better. 
3. Form a study group or find a study buddy. The Feynman technique explains how explaining a concept to someone results in better memorization of topics and assists you in identifying your knowledge gaps so you may revise your pain points. 

By following these books and recommendations, you can turn the first year of your medical college into smooth sailing. For further queries, rely on MedMonk to find you the right diagnosis for your educational path and help you sort your preferences to make your journey a rewarding one.

Your knowledge and abilities will be put to the test at several points along the route to becoming a Doctor of Medicine (MD). To become licensed, you must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). The USMLE Steps 1 and 2 are given before residency application, while the USMLE Step 3 is given during the first year or two of residency. The exam is administered in three sections. Your final residency placement will be significantly impacted by your performance on the USMLE Step 1 exam. 

With so much depending on your Step 1 performance, The MedMonk has come up with a few tips for you to prepare with ease. 

How is USMLE Step 1 Structured?

The eight-hour, computer-based USMLE Step 1 exam is administered once a day. There is an hour-long break in between each of the seven one-hour question sessions (40 questions per block). You can use the entire one-hour break period, or you can divide it up into five to ten minutes after each question block. 

Subjects covered in the USMLE Step 1 include:

1. Biochemistry
2. Anatomy
3. Physiology
4. Microbiology and Immunology
5. Pathology
6. Pharmacology
7. Bio-statistics and Epidemiology
8. Medical Ethics
9. Behavioral Science
10. Genetics and Aging

When Should You Start Preparing?

The USMLE Step 1 assesses the foundational science courses that the majority of International Medical Graduates (IMGs) completed during their first two years of medical school. It is recommended that you take the test as soon as possible after finishing your second year of study, while the material is still fresh in your mind. But what if you were unable to pass the medical school exam? What if, after graduating, you decided to take the USMLE? There is never a bad time to start! It may be necessary for students who are behind schedule or who have forgotten the fundamental sciences to add extra resources to their study, such as video lectures or textbooks, to better understand the material. However, doing so will never prevent you from achieving high marks. 

USMLE Tips for Success

You will hear a lot about this exam throughout your first few years of medical school. Since the material can be a little daunting, we’ve condensed it into five essential components that you should take into account when you start your Step 1 preparation.

• Start Studying as You Start Medical School

Preparing for the USMLE Step 1 requires early and consistent effort due to its extensive content. Starting as early as the first day of medical school and utilizing resources like USMLE study materials can significantly enhance your chances of success. By studying alongside core classes, you can gain a deeper understanding of the material and build a strong foundation for your exam preparation. At The MedMonk, we provide you with access to multiple top-notch question banks, and study materials.

• Use Resources Right for You

The most effective USMLE Step 1 preparation strategy is tailored to individual learning styles. While there are numerous resources available, understanding your learning style and seeking guidance or forming study groups can significantly enhance your learning process.

• Avoid Overlearning

You might read faster and learn quicker than other students, but 5-8 hours of dedicated study regularly has been deemed ideal for most students. While less time studying might not be enough, more time might cause burnout. 

• Use Your Academic Performance as a Gauge

A well-structured study schedule and consistent review are crucial for USMLE Step 1 preparation. Monitor your academic performance to identify areas needing improvement and allocate your time strategically in the final days leading up to the exam, minimizing distractions to optimize your focus.

• Make revisions

Revision is the key to doing well on any exam! Without revision, no matter how effectively you learn a subject the first time, it will not stick with you. Set aside 60 to 90 minutes each day in your study schedule for review. During my preparation, I discovered the “Spaced Revision Technique” to be one helpful technique. It offers a time gap between study sessions to aid with long-term memory retention and is based on the “Forgetting Curve.”

• Take Advantage of USMLE Practice Exams

Practicing with NBME exams is crucial for USMLE Step 1 preparation. These exams simulate the real test and can provide valuable insights into your knowledge and areas for improvement. However, it’s important to remember that practice exam scores may be slightly inflated, so factor in a potential score reduction when assessing your progress.

Acknowledge that the USMLE Step 1 assesses both factual knowledge and conceptual application. While facts are brief and require regular review, concepts, once understood, may be remembered for a considerable amount of time. Therefore, it is best to take the test as soon as your target score is within a 10-point range of the assessment scores (NBMEs and UWSAs). Recall that you will never feel completely ready, therefore have faith in your judgment! At MedMonk, we provide you with guidance, study material, practice tests, and preparatory courses with individual attention. 

Sickle cell anaemia is a type of genetic condition known as sickle cell disease. It alters the structure of red blood cells, which deliver oxygen throughout the body.

Red blood cells are normally spherical and flexible, allowing them to travel freely through blood channels. Some red blood cells in sickle cell anaemia resemble sickles or crescent moons. These sickle cells also become hard and sticky, slowing or impeding blood flow.

What are some symptoms to look out for?

Sickle cell anaemia symptoms often begin around the age of six months. They differ from person to person and may evolve over time. Symptoms could include:

• Anaemia: Sickle cells easily break down and perish. Typical red blood cells last about 120 days before needing to be replaced. However, sickle cells often die in 10 to 20 days, resulting in a lack of red blood cells. This is known as anaemia. The body cannot receive adequate oxygen if there are insufficient red blood cells. This results in weariness.
• Vision issues: Small blood veins that deliver blood to the eyes can get clogged with sickle cells. This can harm the retina, the part of the eye that interprets visual images, resulting in vision issues.
• Delayed development or puberty: Red blood cells give the body with the oxygen and nutrition it requires for growth. A lack of healthy red blood cells can limit growth in newborns and children and postpone puberty in teenagers.
• Swelling in the hands and feet: Sickle-shaped red blood cells prevent blood circulation in the hands and feet, causing them to enlarge.
• Infections occur frequently: The spleen plays a crucial role in infection prevention. Sickle cells can damage the spleen, increasing the risk of infection. Babies and children with sickle cell anaemia frequently receive immunizations and antibiotics to prevent potentially fatal illnesses like pneumonia.
• Painful episodes: Periodic periods of intense pain, known as pain crises, are a major symptom of sickle cell disease. Pain occurs when sickle-shaped red blood cells obstruct blood flow through small blood veins in the chest, abdomen, and joints.

What are the causes?

Sickle cell anaemia is caused by a genetic alteration that instructs the body to produce haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is an iron-containing substance found in red blood cells that helps them to transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. The haemoglobin linked with sickle cell anaemia causes red blood cells to become hard, sticky, and misshaped. For a child to have sickle cell anaemia, both parents must carry one copy of the sickle cell gene and pass it on to their child.

Sickle cell anaemia is a difficult hereditary disorder that necessitates continual medical treatment and control. While symptoms vary, recognizing warning signals such as exhaustion, pain episodes, and repeated infections is critical for early diagnosis and treatment.

The good news is that sickle cell anaemia management has advanced significantly. Early diagnosis, regular healthcare visits, and adherence to treatment programs can all considerably enhance the quality of life for persons living with the condition.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that can strike unexpectedly and may be brought on by unknown reasons or it can be passed down through generations. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that is mostly preventable, with weight and inactivity being major risk factors. You can be diagnosed with either condition at any age. 

What are the symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes type 1 and type 2 symptoms include the following if left untreated:

• Experiencing frequent urination
• Extreme thirst and drinking
• Intense hunger
• Extreme exhaustion
• Blurred eyesight
• Improperly healing cuts or sores
• Extremely dry skin
• Increased frequency of infections
• Irritation, mood swings, and inadvertent weight loss

What causes Type 1 Diabetes?

The body’s immune system is responsible for preventing outside influences such as harmful bacteria and viruses. The autoimmune response is thought to be the root cause of type 1 diabetes. The immune system misinterprets the body’s healthy cells for foreign invaders in individuals with type 1 diabetes. The immune system attacks and destroys the pancreatic beta cells that produce insulin. The loss of these beta cells prevents the body from making insulin.

Why the immune system occasionally targets the body’s cells is a mystery to researchers. Genetic and environmental variables, including viral exposure, might have a role. Autoimmune illness research is continuing strong. Type 1 diabetes is not brought on by dietary or lifestyle choices.

What causes Type 2 Diabetes?

Insulin resistance is found in those with type 2 diabetes. Although it can no longer use insulin efficiently, the body continues to make it. Although the exact causes of insulin resistance in certain individuals remain unknown, several lifestyle variables, such as obesity and inactivity, may play a role.

There may be additional genetic and environmental influences at work. Your pancreas will attempt to compensate by generating more insulin if you develop type 2 diabetes. Your body can’t use insulin as it should, so glucose builds up in your blood.

How does diabetes affect the body?

Diabetes comes in two primary forms: type 1 and type 2.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how well your body uses glucose, or blood sugar, to function. The fuel that powers your body’s cells is glucose, but for glucose to get inside your cells, it needs a key. The secret is insulin. Individuals who have type 1 diabetes are insulin-insensitive. It can be compared to not having a key.

Individuals with type 2 diabetes frequently don’t produce enough insulin later in the disease and don’t react to insulin as well as they should. Consider it as though you have a broken key. High blood sugar levels that persist over time can result from either form of diabetes. This raises the possibility of complications from diabetes.

What are the risk factors of type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus?

The risk factors for type 1 diabetes appear to be less in number, primarily because the cause of type 1 diabetes is still undergoing extensive research. Type 2 diabetes, however, has definitive risk factors.

You might be at risk for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus if:

• Family history: Individuals who have a parent or sibling with type 1 diabetes are more likely to get the disease themselves.
• Age: Although type 1 diabetes can strike anyone at any age, it most commonly affects children and teenagers.

You might be at risk for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus if:

• Possess prediabetes or slightly increased blood sugar
• Are obese or overweight
• Have a lot of belly fat
• Engage in less than three times a week of physical activity
• Are older than 45 have ever experienced gestational diabetes, or diabetes during pregnancy
• Have given birth to a child who weighed more than nine pounds
• Are Alaska Native, Black, Hispanic, or Latino as a result of systemic injustices that contribute to health inequalities
• Possess type 2 diabetes in a close relative or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

How are Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes treated?

Type 1 diabetes does not have a treatment yet. Since insulin is not produced by people with type 1 diabetes, it must be taken consistently and blood sugar levels must be monitored regularly. 

Some people receive injections multiple times a day into soft tissues like their buttocks, arms, or stomach. Insulin pumps are used by others. Insulin pumps use a tiny tube to deliver a constant dose of insulin into the body. Since blood sugar levels can fluctuate rapidly, testing is a crucial component of managing type 1 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes can be controlled and even prevented with proper nutrition and exercise, but many individuals require additional assistance. If altering your lifestyle is insufficient, your doctor might recommend drugs that improve the way your body uses insulin.

Another crucial component of managing type 2 diabetes is blood sugar monitoring. There’s no other method to determine if you’re hitting your goals. Your physician might advise more regular or infrequent blood sugar checks. Your doctor can advise insulin injections if your blood sugar is too high.

Diabetes mellitus, whether type 1 or type 2, causes an accumulation of excess glucose in the blood, either due to resistance to the hormone that helps utilize glucose (insulin) or due to insufficient production of insulin. The understanding of the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes is essential, as the treatment of the illness and possible steps for prevention will depend on the same. They have different risk factors, and they also have different causes, making the method of treatment significantly distinct.

Diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus have the same first word in their names and share several symptoms. But that’s where the similarities stop. These two diseases are not linked. They produce distinct difficulties and require quite different solutions.

Diabetes mellitus is better known as diabetes. It occurs when your pancreas does not generate enough insulin to regulate the quantity of glucose, or sugar, in your bloodstream.

Diabetes insipidus is an uncommon illness unrelated to the pancreas or blood sugar. Instead, it occurs when your kidneys generate a large amount of urine. Normally, they filter your bloodstream to produce approximately a quart or two every day. When you have diabetes insipidus, it’s closer to 3 to 20 quarts, with the majority being water. 

Some symptoms of Diabetes mellitus and Diabetes Insipidus include:

Symptoms of diabetes insipidus in adults include:

– Being extremely thirsty, with a preference for cold water.

– Producing big quantities of pale urine.

– Getting up several times during the night to urinate and drink water.

A baby or young child with diabetes insipidus may show the following symptoms:

• Large amounts of pale pee produce heavy, moist diapers.
• Bed-wetting.
• Being extremely thirsty, with a propensity for consuming water and cold beverages.
• Weight loss.
• Poor growth.
• Vomiting.
• Irritability.
• Fever.
• Constipation.
• Headache.
• Problems sleeping.
• Vision issues. 

Some symptoms of type 1 and type 2 diabetes include:

• Feeling thirstier than usual.
• Urinating frequently.
• Losing weight without trying.
• The presence of ketones in the urine. When there is insufficient insulin, the breakdown of muscle and fat produces ketones.
• Feeling exhausted and weak.
• Feeling irritable or experiencing other mood swings.
• I have blurry eyesight.
• I have sores that are sluggish to heal.
• Developing a variety of infections, including gum, skin, and vaginal infections. 

Diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus have different causes.

Dehydration might cause you to feel exceedingly weary if you have diabetes insipidus. It could also be because you are low on electrolytes, which are flushed out with all of your pee.If you have diabetes, you may feel extremely exhausted when your blood sugar levels are either low or too high.

Diabetes insipidus causes you to feel extremely thirsty because your body loses so many fluids. Diabetes mellitus causes thirst as a result of an excess of glucose in the blood. If you have diabetes insipidus, prolonged dehydration might cause blurred vision.

While both disorders share the name “diabetes” and certain symptoms, such as thirst and exhaustion, they are not the same. Diabetes mellitus is concerned with the regulation of blood sugar, whereas diabetes insipidus is associated with excessive urine production. Understanding the different causes of these diseases is critical for accurate diagnosis and therapy.

Viruses are extremely microscopic organisms. Most cannot be seen under a standard microscope. They are composed of a small number of genes in the form of DNA or RNA encased in a protein covering. To multiply and produce additional viruses, a virus must enter a living cell and seize control of the cell’s machinery. Some viruses achieve this by introducing their own DNA (or RNA) into that of the host cell. When the DNA or RNA influences the host cell’s genes, it can cause the cell to become cancerous.

Several viruses have been associated with human cancers. Our expanding understanding of viruses’ function in cancer has resulted in the creation of vaccinations to help prevent specific human tumors. However, these vaccines can only protect against infections if given before the person is exposed to the cancer-causing virus.

What are these viruses?

1. Human Papillomavirus (HPVs): 

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are a family of more than 150 viruses. They’re named papillomaviruses because some of them cause papillomas, sometimes known as warts. Some forms of HPV only develop on skin, whereas others grow in mucous membranes such as the mouth, throat, or vagina. All kinds of HPV are spread by contact (touch). Sexual contact can spread more than 40 different kinds of HPV. At least a dozen of these HPV strains are linked to cancer. HPV infections are common, while HPV-related cancer is rare. Most HPV-infected people do not get cancer as a result of the virus. However, certain persons who have had long-term infections with high-risk HPV strains are at risk for getting cancer. A few kinds of HPV are the primary causes of cervical cancer, the second most frequent malignancy in women globally. HPV is also responsible for certain malignancies of the penis, anus, vagina, vulva, and mouth and throat. Smoking, which has been linked to some of these malignancies, may combine with HPV to raise cancer risk. Other genital infections may potentially raise the risk of HPV-related malignancy.

2. Epstein – Barr Virus (EBV): 

EBV is a herpesvirus. It is most recognized for producing infectious mononucleosis, also known as “mono”. EBV can be transmitted from person to person via coughing, sneezing, sharing drinks or eating utensils. The majority of persons in the United States are infected with EBV by the end of their teen years, albeit not everyone gets mono symptoms. EBV infection, like other herpes virus infections, lasts a lifetime, even if most people show no symptoms after the first few weeks. EBV infects and persists in the body’s B lymphocytes (also known as B cells). There are no medicines or other therapies for EBV, nor are there vaccines to help prevent it, however most people do not develop major symptoms from EBV infection.

3. Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCV):

Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCV) was found in 2008 in samples from Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer. Most people become infected with MCV at some point in their lives (typically during childhood), and the infection normally causes no symptoms. However, in a few people with this infection, the virus can alter the DNA inside cells, resulting in Merkel cell cancer. This infection is thought to be responsible for nearly all Merkel cell malignancies. It is unclear how humans become infected with this virus, although it has been detected in several locations throughout the body, including normal skin and saliva.

Though some viruses can hijack human cells and potentially cause cancer, knowing this link has resulted in the creation of preventive vaccinations for specific diseases such as HPV-induced cervical carcinoma. While current research focuses on viruses such as EBV and MCV, this understanding allows us to take control of our health through vaccination and early detection measures.

Thyroid disease refers to a medical disorder that prevents your thyroid from producing the proper amount of hormones. It can impact persons of all ages. Your thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that lies beneath your skin at the front of the neck. It is a component of your endocrine system that produces and releases thyroid hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate many of your body’s essential activities.

The primary function of the thyroid gland is to regulate the rate of your metabolism. This is how your body converts the food you consume into energy. Every cell in your body requires energy to function properly. When your thyroid fails to function properly, it can have a negative influence on the rest of your body.

Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism are the most common kinds of thyroid diseases. While they may sound similar, they are vastly different. Hyperthyroidism is characterised by an overactive thyroid (the production of excessive thyroid hormone). Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid is underactive. Hypothyroidism outnumbers Hyperthyroidism. 

What are some symptoms to look out for?

Hyperthyroidism:

• Hand tremors
• Weight loss
• Nervousness
• Rapid heart rate
• Trouble sleeping
• Brittle skin
• Muscular weakness
• Irritability
• Menstrual periods are lighter or less frequent

Hypothyroidism:

• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Cold sensitivity
• Weight increase
• Dry skin
• Forgetfulness

What are some causes to look out for?

Causes of Hyperthyroidism:

• small thyroid tumours known as toxic nodular goitres:
• Thyroiditis is a virally caused thyroid infection
  
• Postpartum thyroiditis
  
• Taking too much thyroid hormone

Causes of Hypothyroidism are:

• Previous radioiodine or surgical treatment for hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer, or another thyroid disorder
• Previous radiation treatments for different types of head and neck cancer.
• Conditions that affect the pituitary gland in the brain Hypothyroidism present at birth, often known as congenital hypothyroidism.
• Medications such as amiodarone (Pacerone), lithium, and anti-epilepsy medications

Thyroid disorder, which includes both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, can impair a variety of body systems. However, with the right diagnosis and therapy, you can manage your thyroid disorder and reclaim control of your health. Remember that maintaining your thyroid health is a continual process. Working with your doctor, you can create a specific treatment plan to recover control of your health and live a more satisfying life.