You may have heard of your thyroid gland and don’t really know what it does. The thyroid gland releases hormones into the blood. These hormones do three things:Â
- Affect the way you breathe (how deeply).Â
- Regulate your metabolism.Â
- Help the body control energy.Â
The main and most important job of the thyroid gland is to regulate your metabolism.Â
What is Hypothyroidism?
What happens if your body produces too much or not enough thyroid hormones? This is called Hypothyroidism.  Â
Hypothyroidism is a common disorder affecting millions worldwide, regardless of biological sex. When the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormones, it leads to a slower metabolism process. Even though many people are affected by Hypothyroidism, it is often undiagnosed and sometimes misdiagnosed. This is because the symptoms that come with it resemble other health conditions.Â
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight gain
- Cold intolerance
- Dry skin and brittle hair
- Muscle and joint pain
- Mood changes
- Cognitive difficulties
- Menstrual irregularities
- Constipation
The intensity of the symptoms varies from person to person, but it is important to pay attention to it. Â
Who Can Be Affected By Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism can affect individuals of any age or gender, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition. Â
5 Increased Risk Factors
Hypothyroidism is more common in older adults, particularly women over the age of 60.
Women are more prone to hypothyroidism than men, with estimates suggesting that women are eight times more likely to be affected.Â
Conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder, significantly increase the risk of hypothyroidism.Â
Individuals with a family history of thyroid disorders are more susceptible to developing hypothyroidism.
People who have undergone radiation therapy in the neck or upper chest area may have an increased risk.Â
It’s important to start getting your thyroid hormone tested at the age of 20. If this is a disease that runs in your family, the doctor will let you know if you need to be tested earlier. Testing is done once a year during your annual checkup blood test. It would be a great time to bring up any concerns and ask more about your thyroid hormones. Â
What Treatment Options Are Available?
The primary treatment for hypothyroidism is hormone replacement therapy. This aims to supplement a person’s deficient thyroid hormones. In addition, there are medications that are added based on the individual’s thyroid hormone levels, overall health, and other factors. Lastly, there are clinical trials available that provide treatment. AIH is conducting a research study for patients who have been diagnosed with Hypothyroidism. This study is 10 months long, and there is a $1200 compensation for those who are entered into the study. For more information, visit Aihresearch.com/trials/general-health-studies/hypothyroidism/. Â
Thyroid Health
It is crucial for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to find the best treatment option for them. There is regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels through blood tests and much more necessary to ensure that treatment is working. Schedule an appointment with your doctor today and talk more about your thyroid health. Â
