What you should know about Thyroid Problems and its Preventive Measures

Are you or any of your beloved ones experiencing thyroid problems? It can prevent your thyroid from making the right amount of hormones to keep your body functioning properly and regulate metabolism. The hormone production may increase at a certain level, but fluctuations in the balance can lead to specific thyroid problems.

According to American Thyroid Association, an estimated 20 million US citizens experience thyroid disease, and half the population is not aware of their condition. Here is everything you need to know about the thyroid.

With time, our lifestyle has changed totally and become stressful. The work culture of today has caused specific health problems, including thyroid disease. Hormones play a significant role in the functioning of your body. The thyroid gland produces hormones that control almost every bodily function.

However, you can experience multiple problems, including hyperthyroidism, thyroiditis, hypothyroidism, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. When your thyroid releases excessive or less hormones, it is called thyroid disease.

What is Thyroid?

The thyroid gland is a small organ in the base of your neck enfolded around the windpipe (trachea). It looks like a butterfly in shape, has a smaller size with two broad wings. The thyroid is a gland that works by creating and releasing substances that help your body regulate and function properly. The thyroid produces a hormone that controls metabolism – the way your body consumes energy.

Causes of Thyroid Problem

1.      Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism takes place due to the overproduction of thyroid hormones, but it can appear in different ways like:

• Graves’ disease

It develops when the thyroid releases an excessive amount of hormones.

• Toxic adenomas

Nodules build up in the thyroid and secrete thyroid hormones that disturb the body’s chemical balance.

• Subacute Thyroiditis

The inflammation of the thyroid makes the gland produce excessive hormones that result in hyperthyroidism. It can last for months consistently.

2.      Iodine deficiency

Iodine is essential for the thyroid to produce hormones. Iodine deficiency is a major problem that millions of people experience around the world.

3.      A Non-Functioning Thyroid Gland

If your newborn has a non-functioning thyroid gland, they are likely to experience certain physical and mental issues. Due to improper functioning of the thyroid gland, it may not produce enough hormones required for the body.

Thyroid Symptoms

There are two main thyroid conditions, including hyperthyroidism, in which the thyroid gland secretes hormones excessively, and hypothyroidism, in which the thyroid produces insufficient hormones. 

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include the following:

• Anxiety, irritability, and nervousness
• Muscle weakness and tremors
• Change in menstrual period
• Enlarged thyroid gland
• Vision problems or eye irritation
• Sensitive to heat
• Sleeplessness

Symptoms of hypothyroidism thyroid include:

• Weight gain
• Feeling tired
• Forgetfulness
• Intolerance to cold temperatures
• Dry and coarse hair
• Hoarse voice
• Change in menstrual periods

Preventive Measures for Thyroid

1.      Avoid Intake of Processed Food

Certain types of food can cause thyroid disorder because of the chemicals present in them and can imbalance hormone production.

2.      Avoid Smoking

Toxins released during smoking can create over sensitivity in the thyroid gland that can cause certain thyroid disorders.

3.      Take Less Stress

Stress is one of the primary reasons that contribute to many health disorders like thyroid disease.

4.      Consider Selenium Supplements

Selenium is a nutrient present in proteins and plays a vital role in maintaining thyroid health. Selenium intake can also boost up your immune system and minimize symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Conclusion

Thyroid disorder is easy to manage with proper health care and preventive tips. You need to focus on your lifestyle and adopt physical activity. Adequate intake of a balanced diet and medication can maintain a healthy thyroid level. In case you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, book an appointment with Dr. Mingliarti Tjahjana at One Health Medical Care.