Thyroid Awareness

Observing Thyroid Awareness Month

The thyroid performs many important functions in our body, and that’s why January is celebrated as the month of awareness about the thyroid gland.

The thyroid is a small gland that has a shape similar to a butterfly and is located at the front base of the neck. Among its functions, it can be highlighted that it aids in hormone production, regulates energy, temperature, heart rate, and metabolism (how we consume calories). 

According to the United States National Library of Medicine, the most common thyroid disease is hypothyroidism, causing the thyroid to not produce enough hormones and, therefore, causing the thyroid to function more slowly.

Hypothyroidism and its Causes

Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid is a disease that in its early stages may not cause symptoms but could present other complications over time. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s disease, which is an autoimmune disorder. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, there are other causes that can also lead to reduced hormone production by the thyroid. For example:

• Surgery: When the thyroid is partially or completely removed, hormone production can be reduced or eliminated.
• Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland can affect hormone production.
• Radiation therapy: Using radiation to treat cancer can affect hormone production.
• Medications: Some medications can affect the thyroid and its hormone production function. Consult your doctor if you are taking medications that may affect your thyroid.
• Genetic disorders: Some people may be born with thyroid problems or even without a thyroid. Although this is not common, it is advisable to conduct early screening studies on newborns.
• Iodine deficiency: Iodine is a mineral necessary for thyroid health and hormone production. When there is not enough iodine in our diet, iodine deficiency can occur. This mineral is consumed through iodized salt, seafood, seaweed, and some plants.
• Pituitary disorders: Certain pituitary conditions can affect the production of thyroid-stimulating hormones.
• Pregnancy: Sometimes, hormone production can be affected during or after pregnancy. It is important to attend regular prenatal visits.

Other Risk Factors

In addition to the aforementioned causes, there are certain factors that increase the risk of developing hypothyroidism.

• Gender: Women are at a higher risk of developing hypothyroidism than men.
• Family history: Those with a family history of thyroid diseases are at a higher risk of developing hypothyroidism.
• Autoimmune diseases: Certain autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of thyroid diseases.
• Radiation: Individuals who have frequently received radiation to the head, neck, or upper chest are at a higher risk of developing thyroid diseases.

Preventive Measures

When suffering from a thyroid disease like hypothyroidism and left untreated, certain health complications may arise, including enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter), heart problems, neurological damage, birth defects, and infertility. Therefore, it is crucial to consider some measures to prevent thyroid diseases and maintain good health.

• Healthy lifestyle: The best way to take care of thyroid health is by leading a healthy lifestyle, including exercise, rest, and a balanced diet.
• Diet: Consuming iodine-rich foods such as seafood, seaweed, dairy, fish, and iodized salt is essential for thyroid health. Other beneficial foods include antioxidants like vegetables and fruits. Lastly, selenium and zinc aid in the activation of thyroid hormones and benefit thyroid health.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, undergoing routine check-ups annually, and following preventive measures will allow you to enjoy a better quality of life and better health. Discuss possible treatments and how to establish a diagnosis with your doctor. You can obtain more information about thyroid disease here.