Don't ignore this gland.
The thyroid, the butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck,
is one of those body parts we don't think to. Until something goes wrong, at
which point it's hard to ignore. "The thyroid hormone has its hands in
many pies, and when the thyroid isn't functioning properly, it can cause many
problems," says Dr Samantha Cooper, a family medicine physician in Dallas,
Texas. These are the most common signs that your thyroid is out of whack. Read
on to find out more.
1. Signs of Hypothyroidism
The thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormone to release
into the bloodstream in hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid. This can cause
the metabolism to slow. "Fatigue, weight gain, low appetite, hair loss,
always feeling cold, low blood pressure, and depression are all symptoms of
hypothyroidism," explains Dr Danielle Kelvas, a Tennessee-based physician.
2. Signs of Hyperthyroidism
Conversely, the thyroid can produce too much thyroid hormone,
which can cause the metabolism and other body systems to go into overdrive.
(This is a much rarer condition than hypothyroidism.) Palpitations, weight
loss, episodes of feeling hot/flushed, high blood pressure, and diarrhoea are
all symptoms of hyperthyroidism, according to Kelvas.
3. Symptoms Can Be Nonspecific
If you suspect you have a thyroid issue, it's essential to see
your doctor. Your level of thyroid hormone can be diagnosed with a simple blood
test. "Any symptom of thyroid disease could also be a symptom of something
else, including sleep deprivation, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and
diabetes," says Cooper. "For good blood work and evaluation, see your
healthcare provider. Don't self-diagnose a thyroid condition and self-treat, as
this can cause serious harm. I screen for thyroid dysfunction at your yearly
annual physical exam and oftentimes I diagnose and treat a thyroid disorder
before there are any symptoms to prevent future problems."
4. Who's At Risk?
According to the Mayo Clinic, you're more likely to have a thyroid
problem if:
- You're female
- You're older than 60
- You have a family history of thyroid disease.
- You have an autoimmune condition, such as type 1 diabetes or celiac disease.
- You've been treated with radioactive iodine or anti-thyroid medications.
- You've received radiation to your neck or upper chest.
- You've had thyroid surgery.
- You've been pregnant or have given birth in the last six months.
5. Regular Screening Important
"If someone has a family history of thyroid disease, I strongly advise them to have their annual labs checked," Kelvas says. "Because thyroid disease can arise insidiously, it's important to keep up to date with your preventative appointments. Most providers include a basic thyroid screen in routine labs."