Thyroid Health: Thyroid Disorders and Thyroid Functions

About 11.7% of people worldwide have hypothyroidism. It's much more common in women, who are 8 to 9 times more likely to get it than men. In India, about 11% of people have hypothyroidism, which is higher than the global average. 

Thyroid health is important because the thyroid gland regulates essential body functions, including metabolism, energy levels, and overall well-being. Thyroid disorders affect millions of people worldwide, and conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can impact overall health and well-being.

So, let’s examine different thyroid disorders and discuss the best thyroid health tips. We will explain the types of thyroid problems, their symptoms, and why taking care of your thyroid is important.

What are Thyroid Disorders?

The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that produces hormones like T4 and T3. These hormones regulate heart rate, weight, temperature, energy, and metabolism. Proper thyroid function is essential for overall health.

Thyroid disorders affect millions globally, with over 42 million cases reported in India alone. The disease affects 1 in 2,640 newborns in India, compared to the global average of 1 in 3,800. Conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can significantly impact both physical and mental well-being. If left untreated, thyroid issues can lead to chronic complications such as heart disease and osteoporosis, highlighting the importance of early detection and effective management.

Types and Impact of Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders include conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, each affecting health in different ways.

Hypothyroidism: results from insufficient hormone production. This condition can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression. The primary Hypothyroidism treatment involves hormone replacement therapy, typically with synthetic thyroxine (T4), which helps to restore normal hormone levels.

Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism is characterised by excessive hormone production, often due to Graves' disease. Symptoms include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and nervousness. Treatment usually involves anti-thyroid medications like methimazole or propylthiouracil to reduce hormone production and manage associated symptoms.

What Factors Increase The Risk Of Thyroid Problems?

Knowing what increases the risk of thyroid problems is important so they can be detected and managed early. Risk factors include a family history of thyroid issues, autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease, too much or too little iodine intake, past radiation exposure (especially to the neck), and a history of thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine treatment. Recognising these risks helps detect thyroid problems early and manage them effectively, preventing symptoms from getting worse and avoiding long-term health issues.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Hypothyroidism symptoms include depression, weight gain, dry skin, and fatigue. Hyperthyroidism symptoms, on the other hand, can cause palpitations, anxiety, excessive sweating, and weight loss.

Doctors use several methods to diagnose thyroid diseases. They start with a physical exam to check for an enlarged thyroid or other signs. Blood tests are essential, as they measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones T4 and T3 to assess thyroid function. Imaging tests, like ultrasounds, evaluate the size and structure of the thyroid and identify nodules or abnormal hormone activity. Sometimes, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy of thyroid nodules is done to get more information.

Medical Treatments

Effective management of thyroid disorders often involves a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes. For hypothyroidism, hormone replacement therapy with synthetic thyroxine (T4) is the primary treatment. This therapy helps normalise hormone levels and relieve fatigue and weight gain symptoms. For hyperthyroidism, anti-thyroid medications such as methimazole or propylthiouracil are used to reduce hormone production. Additionally, beta-blockers may be prescribed to manage symptoms like rapid heartbeat and anxiety.

Surgical Options 

When medications are not effective or suitable, surgery might be necessary for managing thyroid disorders. In cases of thyroid cancer, a thyroidectomy (partial or total removal of the thyroid gland) may be performed. After surgery, patients usually need lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy to maintain normal hormone levels.

Enhancing Thyroid Health

Optimising thyroid function requires regular check-ups and proactive health measures. Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce the impact of stress on thyroid function.

A well-structured diet plan supports thyroid health. The key is to consume adequate iodine, selenium, and zinc while avoiding excessive goitrogenic foods. Proper hydration and balanced meals also contribute to overall wellness and stable thyroid function.

UNICEF, ICCIDD, and WHO recommend that the daily intake of iodine should be 90 µg for preschool children (0 to 59 months), 120 µg for schoolchildren (6 to 12 years), 150 µg for adolescents (above 12 years) and adults, and 250 µg for pregnant and lactating women. 

 Lifestyle Modifications for Thyroid Management

• Lifestyle changes, including adjustments in diet, exercise, and regular monitoring, are important for managing thyroid disorders and improving overall health. 
   
• A balanced diet is important for thyroid health, with foods rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc supporting thyroid function. Limiting goitrogenic foods like cabbage, broccoli, and soy is advisable, but they can interfere with hormone production.
   
• Natural remedies for thyroid can complement medical treatments. Herbal supplements like ashwagandha, bladderwrack, and guggul may support thyroid function, but it's important to consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplements to ensure they are safe and effective.
   
• Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, boosts metabolism, improves mood, and reduces stress, all of which benefit those with thyroid disorders. Activities such as walking, swimming, and strength training are particularly effective.
   
• Regular blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels ensure treatment plans work and allow for timely adjustments. Consistent follow-up appointments help monitor progress and address any issues.

Living with Thyroid Disease

Managing thyroid disease daily involves following prescribed treatments, maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and managing stress. Keeping a symptom diary can help track changes and provide helpful information for healthcare providers. Effective thyroid disorder management is essential for overall health and well-being.

Living with thyroid disease also means educating yourself about the condition and being aware of potential symptoms or changes in your health. Joining support groups in person or online can provide additional emotional support and practical advice from others who share similar experiences. Regularly communicating with your healthcare provider and asking questions about your treatment options can help you manage thyroid disease.

Conclusion

Taking care of your thyroid health is important for overall well-being. Understanding thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, knowing their symptoms, and recognizing risk factors can help in early detection and effective treatment. Consulting an endocrinologist in Delhi is important for getting the right care. Treatments include medications and sometimes surgery, along with lifestyle changes like a thyroid diet plan and regular exercise. To keep your thyroid healthy, have regular check-ups and manage stress. 

Daily management strategies and support from others can also make a big difference. For more information about thyroid health management, check out MASSH. We specialize in functional and preventative medicine, which can help you manage thyroid disease with lifestyle and dietary changes. Check out our website to learn more about thyroid disease treatment at MASSH, or visit us today to consult with our specialists.