The thyroid and sleep disorders

Over- or under-function of the thyroid gland is widespread and can be a cause of various sleep disorders. Here we explain how the thyroid works and why it influences sleep.

Table of Contents

1. The thyroid and its function
2. Functional disorders of the thyroid gland (overactive/underactive)
3. Interaction between sleep and thyroid
4. Sleep disorders caused by thyroid disease
5. Conclusion

1. The thyroid and its function

The thyroid is a small but incredibly important organ located in the front of the neck in close proximity to the larynx and trachea. It produces vital messenger substances that are crucial for almost all body functions. The best known thyroid hormones are triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). They are formed from the element iodine and other substances. The production of hormones is controlled by the brain via the messenger TSH released there. Iodine is an essential trace element that cannot be produced by the body. Adequate intake in your daily diet is therefore essential.

The thyroid hormones are an important part of the hormonal balance and have an influence on many physical processes, for example heart activity and blood pressure. They activate various metabolic processes and affect kidney and intestinal activity. They are also important for body and organ growth and healthy brain function. The small thyroid gland therefore bears a great deal of responsibility in maintaining vital processes.

2. Thyroid dysfunction

There are two types of thyroid dysfunction: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. If too little or too much thyroid hormone is produced, the entire hormonal system becomes unbalanced. Numerous bodily functions are restricted and health is significantly impaired. Nowadays, thyroid dysfunction can usually be treated well with medication.

↓ Hypothyroidism

In hypothyroidism, the thyroid produces fewer hormones than needed. This slows down the metabolism and many important body functions. Physical and mental performance decreases and those affected often suffer from listlessness, depressive moods, loss of appetite and a reduced immune system.

An underactive thyroid can occur due to a persistent iodine deficiency, an anatomical reduction in the size of the thyroid gland or inflammation of the thyroid tissue as a result of the autoimmune disease Hashimoto's thyroiditis. It is often treated with additional intake of the missing hormones.

↑ Hyperfunction (hyperthyroidism)

When there is an overactive thyroid, the thyroid produces too many hormones. The excess of T3 and T4 accelerates the metabolism abnormally. This often leads to weight loss, cardiac arrhythmias, inner restlessness, nervousness and difficulty concentrating.

Hyperthyroidism often occurs as a result of the autoimmune disease Graves' disease or as a result of autonomy, in which the thyroid is no longer controlled by the brain but initiates hormone production partially independently. In order to prevent excess hormones, there are different methods that help to inhibit the overproduction of the organ.

3. Sleep disorders caused by thyroid disease

The thyroid has a major influence on health and sleep. Sleep disorders can have direct organic as well as psychological causes. Both areas can be affected by a thyroid malfunction and contribute to the development of problems falling asleep and staying asleep or secondary diseases such as sleep apnea.

Sleep disorders in hypothyroidism

Insomnia: The slowed metabolism makes you increasingly tired, lacking energy and listless. This increases the subjective need for sleep of those affected because there is not enough energy available. Symptoms such as depressive moods, loss of appetite and feelings of cold disrupt natural sleep patterns. They prevent the body from resting properly and falling asleep despite persistent tiredness. Despite increased fatigue, many sufferers have difficulty falling asleep, poorer sleep quality and overall shorter sleep duration.

Sleep apnea: If the important thyroid hormones are missing, the breathing rate may decrease and the oxygen circulation in the body may slow down. This hinders healthy breathing and increases the risk of oxygen deficiency and pauses in breathing (sleep apnea) during sleep.

Sleep disorder in hyperfunction

Insomnia: Various studies show that an increased concentration of thyroid hormones is demonstrably linked to the intensity of sleep disorders. The increased activity level and accelerated metabolism are typical symptoms of hyperthyroidism, which make it difficult to fall asleep in the evening. Nervousness, anxiety disorders or depressive moods also have a negative effect on sleep behavior and active digestion can also hinder falling asleep and staying asleep.

Sleep apnea: If the thyroid gland is overactive, the breathing rate is usually increased, but the associated enlargement of the thyroid organ (also called goiter or goiter) can lead to a narrowing of the airways.

4. Prevention against thyroid problems

If the thyroid disrupts the hormonal balance, sleep also suffers. Disturbances in thyroid function are not always so easy to recognize. Anyone who suffers from persistent sleep disorders can also take a closer look at the function of the thyroid gland.

Because the thyroid hormones are involved in so many vital body functions, they should be monitored again and again anyway. With a balanced diet, we usually absorb enough iodine to adequately supply a healthy thyroid. However, the function of the thyroid gland can change with age, which is why regular check-ups with your family doctor or endocrinologist are highly recommended.

5. Conclusion

• The thyroid is an important organ that is involved in numerous body functions and metabolic processes via the thyroid hormones T3 and T4.

• If the thyroid gland is underactive, the metabolism slows down and performance decreases.

• If you are overactive, your metabolism speeds up and can lead to restlessness, nervousness or cardiac arrhythmias.

• Thyroid dysfunction can promote the occurrence of sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea.

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