.
Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, flaky, dry skin, thinning of hair, and sensitivity to cold. On the contrary, symptoms of hyperthyroidism include insomnia, weight loss, muscle weakness, tremors, enlarged thyroid gland, and extreme heat sensitivity.
Burden of Thyroid Conditions
Nearly 20 million Americans suffer from thyroid cancer as per the American Thyroid Association. However, 60% of people are unaware of their thyroid conditions.
Women are known to be affected most commonly with thyroid disorders (commonly affects menstruation) when compared to men.
As the gland is involved in almost every body’s metabolic functions from burning calories to heartbeat regulation, January is dedicated to discussing and promoting awareness on various thyroid problems through several joint ventures.
Do it Yourself
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Self-check to rule out thyroid disorder using a simple maneuver. - Take a sip of water by standing in front of a mirror and tilting back your head.
- Notice any signs of bulging beneath Adam’s apple (a lump of cartilage that sticks out from the throat).
- You may have to repeat this process a few times to note down your observations.
- Seek your physician’s advice immediately if you notice excessive bulging, enlarged glands, or nodules.
Facts on Thyroid Disorders
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The causal factor of thyroid problems remains mostly unidentified. -
Thyroid problems are five to eight times more common among women than in men. -
Every one in eight women carries the chance of developing a thyroid disorder once in her lifetime. -
Thyroid nodules are present in almost 60% to 70% of middle-aged women. -
Undiagnosed thyroid diseases may lead to serious conditions like osteoporosis, heart disease, and high sodium diet, processed foods, red meat, saturated fats, phytoestrogens-containing foods, and excess green tea may heighten the risk of thyroid problems. -
Thyroid diseases in pregnancy may lead to risks like premature delivery, miscarriages, or even fetal developmental problems if treated inadequately. -
However, with prompt medical care and a proper diet, most thyroid diseases can be managed easily.
References:
- Thyroid Awareness Month, 2022: What’s New? It’s Personal.
– (https://columbiasurgery.org/news/thyroid-awareness-month-2022-what-s-new-it-s-personal) - Thyroid Awareness Month
– (https://www.nicswell.co.uk/events/thyroid-awareness-month-2022)
Source: Medindia
