Thyroid Health Facts and Stats 2012

January is Thyroid Health Awareness Month. This blog post shares "Facts and Stats" on the disorder that is more common than diabetes or heart disease, and often goes undiagnosed because of its subtle symptoms.

THYROID HEALTH DISORDER TYPES:

There are two main types of thyroid disorders:

• Hypothyroidism is the underproduction of the thyroid hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). This makes their metabolism slow down. About 80 per cent of patients with thyroid disorders suffer from hypothyroidism. 

• Hyperthyroidism is the underproduction of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4. It is less common. A hyperactive thyroid over-produces hormones and works more than it needs to, speeding up your metabolism.

THYROID DISEASE PREVENTION:

There is no known way to prevent hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. A healthy diet, exercise and proper nutrition are not just the keys to living a healthy life, but also key preventive measures. Reduce stress. If you are a smoker, stop smoking, as smoking can damage the thyroid. Some doctors advise avoiding soy supplements and eating no more than one small serving of soy foods daily. 

WHY YOUR THYROID IS ESSENTIAL TO OVERALL GOOD HEALTH:

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the base of the neck just below the Adam's apple. Despite being relatively small, the thyroid gland plays a major role in influencing several functions of the body's most important organs, including the heart, liver and kidneys. Therefore, ensuring the proper functioning of the thyroid is essential to the body's overall health.

Hypothyroidism is more common than hyperthyroidism. Roughly 80 per cent of total thyroid cases are categorised as hypothyroidism. 

HYPOTHYROIDISM SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

• depression
• moodiness
• muscular weakness and constant fatigue
• muscle aches and pains
• a weak, slow heart beat
• unexplained weight gain
• sensitivity to cold
• thick, puffy skin
• forgetfulness
• constipation
• hoarse voice
• dry skin and hair
• heavy menstrual flow

EARLY DETECTION:

One way to increase early detection of thyroid nodules is to perform a Thyroid Neck Check, a simple check you can do anytime, developed by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE).

HOW TO CHECK YOUR NECK AND THYROID GLAND

What you need:

1. Glass of water
2. Hand-held mirror

Hold the mirror in your hand, focusing on the lower front area of your neck, above the collar bone, and below the voice box. This is the area in which the thyroid gland is located.

While looking at this area in the mirror, tip your head back.

Take a drink of water and swallow.

As you swallow, look at your neck. Check for bulges or protrusions in the area while swallowing. Don't confuse the Adam's apple with the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located further down the neck, closer to the collar bone. Repeat the process as many times as you might need to.

If you do see any bulges or protrusions in this area, consult a doctor. You may have an enlarged thyroid gland or a thyroid nodule and should be checked to determine whether treatment for thyroid disease is needed.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Thyroid disease is more common than diabetes or heart disease
• More women suffer from thyroid disorders than men
• The chances of developing a thyroid problem increase with age 
• Thyroid disorders tend to be genetic
• Irritability and changes in weight gain are other signs of a thyroid disorder. 

Since the signs and  symptoms of thyroid disorder are common and can be associated with other medical conditions, thyroid disorders often go undiagnosed.