The thyroid gland is a small but important organ located in the lower part of the neck. Did you know that if it fails, it can disable our entire body? So why is such a small organ so powerful? The strength of the thyroid gland lies in the hormones it secretes that regulate the work of almost all cells. That is why ensuring it functions efficiently and smoothly is so important.⠀
These hormones are responsible for a huge number of vital functions: the work of the brain, cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, reproductive function, etc. So the specialist who deals with thyroid problems is an endocrinologist.
The Basic Functions of the Thyroid Gland:
Regulation of metabolism;
Regulating of the growth of individual cells;
Regulating the growth and development of the body as a whole;
Maturation of tissues and organs;
Regulation of bone tissue formation, etc.
More than 665 million people in the world suffer from thyroid diseases. In women, problems with the thyroid gland are observed more often than in men by 10 times.
The Main Symptoms of Thyroid Problems
Permanent fatigue
It may be a symptom of hypothyroidism - a disease caused by thyroid hormones not being produced in enough amounts. If there is not enough thyroid hormone circulating in the cells, the muscles do not receive signals to start working.
Depression
The feeling of sadness can also be caused by not producing enough hormones. It’s the thyroid gland that affects the level of serotonin in the brain. If it doesn’t work as it’s supposed to, this may affect the mood largely.
Anxiety
The feeling of anxiety may occur if the thyroid gland, on the contrary, produces too much thyroid hormone. Overflowing with constant signals for activity, the body is overexcited. If you can't relax, your thyroid may be overactive.
Strong food cravings
Strong hunger and cravings for particular food may be a sign of hyperthyroidism. The appetite increases if a large amount of hormones is produced. It makes you feel hungry all the time. And vice versa - an underactive thyroid gland messes up with your perception of tastes and smells.
Dry skin
A permanent feeling of dry skin, if it also itches, is one of the signs of hypothyroidism. This is due to a slowdown in metabolism and a decrease in sweating. The skin, without enough fluid, quickly becomes dry and starts to peel off. The nails become brittle, and prolonged voluminous stripes appear on them.
What to Do If You Notice the Symptoms of Thyroid Disease?⠀
First, a patient with suspected thyroid disease turns to an endocrinologist as a preventive measure. The doctor listens to complaints and visually examines the person who applied: the skin, hair condition, palpating the thyroid gland, etc.⠀
As a result, the organ can reveal its enlargement and the presence of nodular formations. Then the necessary examinations are assigned:
Ultrasound exam of the thyroid gland;
Laboratory studies (hormonal tests).
The results of thyroid checkups will determine the treatment that will depend on the amounts of hormones overproduced or underproduced by the thyroid gland.
Is It Possible to Prevent Thyroid Diseases?
Thyroid diseases can occur due to various causes, but a healthy lifestyle is crucial for the health of any human organ. Correcting it can affect the balance of hormones in your body and improve your health and quality of life. This is what you can do:
Regulate stress levels to maintain the proper thyroid function;
Treat benign tumors of the gland in time;
Go through regular health checkups;
Include in your diet more seafood, nuts, fruits, vegetables, lean meat, and offal, eggs;
Use UV protection;
Quit cigarettes and alcohol;
Stay physically active.
