The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck. It is an important part of the endocrine system and produces thyroid hormone. Whenever there is any problem in the thyroid gland that leads to an overproduction or underproduction of thyroid hormone, it is known as thyroid disease. The term thyroid disease is considered an umbrella term that encapsulates all disorders and problems associated with the thyroid gland.
In India, more than 42 million people suffer from thyroid disease. The number of active patients with thyroid disease in India is among the highest in the world. One of the leading causes of this is delayed diagnosis of the condition, as well as difficulty monitoring symptoms, which could easily be caused by other conditions. Thyroid disease can increase your risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and even certain types of cancer if the condition is not managed. So, to help you understand the severity of the condition, let’s understand what thyroid disease is, its types, symptoms, and treatment options.
Thyroid disease refers to any abnormality in the thyroid gland that leads to an underproduction or overproduction of the thyroid hormone. Hormonal imbalance in the body can lead to several health complications, which require medical treatment. If left unchecked, thyroid disease can lead to cardiovascular diseases, peripheral neuropathy, and goitre. It is very important to control the thyroid level in women especially since thyroid disease can increase the risk of PCOD or PCOS, which can affect the menstrual health of women. One of the most important things you should note is that thyroid disease has two types, and both these types have different causes and symptoms. What are the two types of thyroid disease? Let’s find out.
Hyperthyroidism is a type of thyroid disease that leads to an overproduction of thyroid hormone by the gland. This condition can be caused due to several medical conditions. Let’s take a look at some of the causes of hyperthyroidism.
Hypothyroidism is a type of thyroid disease where the thyroid gland is underactive. It causes a deficiency of thyroid hormone in your body, which can lead to an increased risk of various health conditions like high cholesterol levels and cardiovascular diseases. Here are some of the most common causes of hypothyroidism.
Treatment options for thyroid disease often require lifestyle and dietary modifications. Let’s review some of the most common treatment options for thyroid disease.
Dietary changes can significantly reduce your risk of thyroid disease. Eating a healthy diet regularly, where you consume enough green vegetables, proteins, and seafood that’s naturally rich in iodine, can help you reduce the risk and symptoms of hypothryroidism. Besides diet, regular physical exercise can help reduce sleep problems and improve overall energy.
These are medicines prescribed to patients with thyroid problems. Beta-blockers can help manage symptoms of thyroid problems. Although these medicines do not directly help manage thyroid issues, they are mainly prescribed for symptomatic relief. In the case of beta blockers, they are used to slow down the heart rate of patients with hyperthyroidism exceptionally fast.
For patients with hyperthyroidism, radioactive iodine is used to intentionally damage the thyroid gland cells to reduce the production of thyroid hormone in the body. This treatment is safe and is regularly prescribed to patients with severe hyperthyroidism.
This is the best treatment option for those with hypothyroidism. Thyroid supplements help balance the thyroid hormone level in your body, allowing the symptoms to cease and managing your condition effectively.
In very rare cases where thyroid disease significantly affects the patient, doctors recommend thyroidectomy surgery, where the thyroid gland is surgically removed. If you have been prescribed this treatment option, you will have to consume thyroid supplements for the rest of your life. However, it will completely stop the natural production of thyroid hormones in your body, helping you treat thyroid diseases.
It is extremely important to be aware of thyroid disease and monitor its symptoms and early signs. An early diagnosis helps manage the condition easily without the need for medical or surgical intervention. So, this World Thyroid Day, let’s take a step towards an India that’s more aware of the risks of thyroid disease and has more awareness regarding thyroid treatment options.
For more information about the complications associated with thyroid disease and natural ways to manage your thyroid, check out our website. We at MASSH offer the best therapeutic and surgical treatment options for thyroid disease. Visit us today to consult with our specialists, and we will help you go through the treatment process as seamlessly as possible.
Discover what endometriosis is, its symptoms, and treatment options. Understand how this common condition impacts reproductive health and causes...
Written by MASSH
Aug 21, 2024
Explore vaginal boils: their causes, symptoms, and treatments. Learn to manage pain, prevent recurrence, and know when to seek medical help for i...
Written by MASSH
Jul 03, 2024
Explore 8 key preventive health checkups for Indian women, including mammograms, Pap smears, and bone density tests. Prioritise your wellness wit...
Written by MASSH
Jun 29, 2024