Is It Time to Get Your Thyroid Checked?

Is It Time to Get Your Thyroid Checked?

In recognition of January being National Thyroid Awareness Month, we have a vital question. When was the last time you had your thyroid checked? The American Thyroid Association estimates that 1 out of every 10 people (and at least 1 out of every 8 women) will develop a thyroid disorder within their lifetime. As many as half of the Americans living with a thyroid disorder are undiagnosed. Could you be one of them? The thyroid may be a small gland near your windpipe, but it regulates your breathing, heart rate, body temperature, cholesterol, body weight, muscle strength, and more. That’s a pretty big job for such a small gland!

What Can Happen If Thyroid Issues Remain Undiagnosed?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped neck gland that produces thyroid hormones (TH). Two vital thyroid hormones are thyroxine and triiodothyronine. An imbalance in your TH levels could lead to changes in your weight, metabolism, energy, cholesterol, menstrual cycles, heart rate, bowels, mood, and more. Undetected changes in your thyroid hormones can increase your risks of cardiovascular disease, infertility, osteoporosis, peripheral neuropathy (peripheral nerve damage), and more.

What Are Common Thyroid Disorders? Are They Treatable?

Common thyroid disorders include thyroid diseases (hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism) and thyroid cancers (papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic). Thyroid disorders are usually treatable by medications or surgery. However, they need to be diagnosed before they can be treated. Thyroid disorders may be diagnosed through a physical exam and specialized blood tests. It’s important to note that you may not show any symptoms even if you have a thyroid disorder.

What Are Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid disease) occurs when your thyroid produces excess hormones. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include unexplained weight loss, an irregular heartbeat, fatigue, and sensitivity to heat with excessive sweating. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid disease) occurs when your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include unexplained weight gain, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, constipation, and dry skin.

Not all thyroid disorder symptoms are physical, as your hormones often affect your moods and mental health. Hyperthyroidism may cause anxiety or irritability, while hypothyroidism may cause depression. If you’ve noticed a change in your appearance, energy levels, body temperatures, menstrual cycles, or moods, it may be time to talk to your doctor about having your thyroid checked.

How Are Thyroid Cancers Diagnosed and Treated?

As with any cancer, thyroid cancer starts with abnormal cell growth. Most types of thyroid cancer grow slowly, but they can be aggressive and spread to other parts of the body. Occasionally, patients may notice or feel a lump or bump on their neck, prompting a physical exam and medical imaging for an accurate diagnosis. Other thyroid cancer symptoms include neck swelling, difficulty swallowing, swollen lymph glands, and voice changes (hoarseness). Common types of thyroid cancer include:

• Papillary Thyroid Cancer – Usually grows slowly but may spread to the lymph nodes
• Follicular Thyroid Cancer – Grow slowly and near areas with high iodine deficiencies
• Medullary Thyroid Cancer – Usually hereditary but spreads quickly to lymph nodes
• Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer – Most aggressive form (grows and spreads rapidly) but also rare

If you show any symptoms of thyroid cancer, talk to your doctor immediately. They may refer you to an experienced endocrinologist for additional testing and treatment.

Devoted to Public Healthcare Awareness for 50+ Years

As a New York-based personal injury and medical malpractice law firm for 50+ years, Pegalis Law Group, LLC cares about raising awareness on various healthcare topics, including thyroid disorders. Please visit our website and follow us on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn for more tips to keep you and your loved ones happy and healthy this year.