Did you know that one in eight women will suffer from a thyroid disorder in her lifetime? Although women are twice as likely as men to develop thyroid problems, it doesn’t mean that men are not at risk. In fact, according to The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, more than 30 million people living in the United States have a thyroid disorder—about half of which are going undiagnosed.
During Thyroid Awareness Month this September, take time to learn about the medical condition that can cause other health issues if not diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.
What Does Your Thyroid Do?
Located just along the front of your windpipe, the thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that is
responsible for storing and producing hormones, which affect most every organ in our body.
Therefore, when your thyroid isn’t working properly, it can cause other areas in your body to begin suffering, as well.
Fortunately, with early diagnosis, a proper treatment plan can help you to find relief from thyroid disease. The key is early detection. As soon as symptoms arise, be sure to seek the guidance of a physician who can help you with a treatment plan best suited for you and your thyroid condition.
Signs of thyroid disease includes:
· Anxiety
· Cold chills
· Constipation
· Depression
· Dry skin
· Fatigue
· Forgetfulness (“brain fog”)
· Heart palpitations
· High blood pressure
· Increased appetite
· Low libido
· Menstrual changes
· Painful muscles
Talk to a physician today to discuss whether these symptoms could be signaling a thyroid disorder.
What Are the Common Types of Thyroid Disorders?
When it comes to thyroid issues, one size doesn’t fit all. In fact, there are several different types of thyroid disorders that your symptoms could be caused by, which is why it is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing one or more of the symptoms for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
The most common types of thyroid disorders include:
· Hyperthyroidism, which is when too much thyroid hormone is being produced
· Goiter, which is when the thyroid is enlarged abnormally
· Hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid gland isn’t producing enough of the thyroid hormone.
· Thyroid cancer, which is a cancer of the thyroid
· Thyroid nodules, which is when there is a lump in the thyroid.
· Thyroiditis, which is the inflammation of the thyroid
What Is the Treatment Plan for Thyroid Disorders?
Fortunately, no matter what type of thyroid disorder you might be suffering from, there are various treatment options in place to help you start feeling as good as new sooner rather than later.
Lifestyle Changes
Some lifestyle changes can help you to find relief of symptoms of a thyroid disorder, including adding more protein to your diet, as well as make sure you are getting enough nutrients into your body. Nutrients like vitamin D, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, zinc, copper, vitamin A, and vitamin B can help lessen the symptoms of thyroid disease.
Medications
Depending on the type of thyroid disorder you have been diagnosed with, some medications might help you to find relief from symptoms.
Surgery
Especially when it comes to thyroid cancer, surgery might be recommended to remove the thyroid gland. If this takes place, medications might be used afterwards to help replace the function of the thyroid so that you can go back to living a normal life.
Do you think you might be experiencing the symptoms of a thyroid disorder? Make an appointment at Hoover Health Centertoday!