Logo

Learning about your Thyroid during Thyroid Awareness Month

Published on Jan 09, 2024 | 11:15 AM

Share Article :

social-icons social-icons social-icons

Although small, the thyroid plays a big part in many functions of your body. Our goal at Call-On-Doc is to help you understand the significance of the thyroid and how your thyroid could be affecting your overall health.

Like other chronic conditions, thyroid diseases often go unnoticed for much of their development, with over half of those with them (up to 60%) left unaware and untreated. Estimated to affect around 20 million Americans, it’s then important to understand your thyroid, know how to monitor it, and know the symptoms of thyroid disease. (1)

What is the thyroid?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, just below the larynx and vocal cords. Developing thyroxine and triiodothyronine, among others, the gland plays a big role in regulating the body’s organs, temperature, energy expenditure, and more. (2) The thyroid is controlled by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, which work together to maintain the balance of hormone levels and ensure overall metabolic stability. Thyroid diseases can thus affect multiple important processes throughout the body, making it important to get tested regularly. 

What are symptoms of thyroid problems?

The symptoms of thyroid problems can vary depending on whether the thyroid is overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism). It's important to note that individuals may experience different symptoms, and the severity can also vary.

Hypothyroidism

Hyperthyroidism

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Weight gain

  • Cold intolerance

  • Dry skin and hair

  • Constipation

  • Muscle aches and stiffness

  • Joint pain

  • Depression

  • Slowed heart rate

  • Heat intolerance

  • Sweating

  • Fatigue

  • Difficulty sleeping

  • Changes in menstrual patterns

  • Frequent bowel movements

Who’s affected by thyroid disease?

Everyone and anyone can develop a thyroid disease, but women run a significantly higher five to eight times more likelihood than men. In fact, 1 in 8 women run the risk of developing a disorder concerning their thyroid. (1) While the condition remains with the person for the rest of their lives after it develops, that does not necessarily mean they can’t live a normal life. Thanks to modern forms of medicine, the vast majority of cases respond well to treatment.

How do I get tested for thyroid problems?

There are a number of tests that can be taken for your thyroid, and they normally start through the blood work conducted most often during annual wellness checks or physicals. While not everyone will get bloodwork done annually, there are also other tests that don’t necessarily need bloodwork but do need to be requested. In either case, these tests can include: 

  • Thyroid Stimulated Hormone Test: TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid to produce T3 and T4. High TSH levels may indicate hypothyroidism, while low levels may suggest hyperthyroidism.
  • Thyroxine Test: T4 is one of the thyroid hormones. Measuring the levels of free T4 helps assess the amount of active thyroid hormone circulating in the bloodstream. 
  • Triiodothyronine Test: T3 is the more active form of thyroid hormone. Measuring free T3 helps evaluate the actual amount of active thyroid hormone available to cells.
  • Thyroid Antibody Tests: These tests, including anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies, help diagnose autoimmune thyroid conditions such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
  • Thyroid Ultrasound Tests: This imaging test may be used to evaluate the size and structure of the thyroid gland, identifying any nodules or abnormalities.

Why you should be aware of thyroid diseases

Similar to chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and hypertension, you will not necessarily notice any symptoms of most thyroid diseases until they have progressed significantly. With how much they can affect the body and its processes, it is important to not just know the tests to request from your doctor but also to be aware of your family history, the habits that may contribute, and the life events that could potentially be a cause. 

How do you keep your thyroid levels in check?

Maintaining thyroid levels involves a combination of healthy lifestyle choices and, if necessary, medical interventions. As referenced in the Call-On-Doc Guide to Hypothyroidism, a balanced diet with sufficient iodine, selenium, and nutrients is essential for thyroid function, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management all contribute to keeping your thyroid healthy. Additionally, regular check-ups with your healthcare provider and an understanding of your family history surrounding thyroid diseases are important. 

Call-On-Doc is here to help you stay happy and healthy, offering options for those suffering from hypothyroidism, including prescription refills. Stay ontop of your health and if you notice any symptoms that could relate to a thyroid issue, start an online visit today to help you manage your 2024 wellness goals.

Source:

  1. “General Information/Press Room.” American Thyroid Association, https://www.thyroid.org/media-main/press-room/.
  2. “Thyroid: What It Is, Function & Problems.” Cleveland Clinic, 7 June 2022, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23188-thyroid.
  3. “Thyroid: What It Is, Function & Problems.” Cleveland Clinic, 7 June 2022, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23188-thyroid.

Was this article helpful?

Want to learn about a specific topic or condition?

Submit
Doctor-image-blog
Wayne C. Hahne,

English graduate and Call-On-Doc’s medical resource guide, Wayne C. Hahne is an experienced and passionate medical education content expert. Through diligent research, provider interviews and utilizing the industry's leading resources for wellness information, it is Mr. Hahne’s personal mission to educate the general public on medical conditions with in-depth and easy-to-understand written guides.

Related Blogs

Warning Signs and Symptoms of Prediabetes

More than 1 in 3 Americans—approximately 96 million adults—are prediabetic. Of those who have prediabetes. 80% do not know they have it. People with prediabetes don’t experience the same intensity of symptoms as those with diabetes. This can make noticing the signs and getting help early on difficult to do.

May 09, 2022 | 10:04 AM

Read More arrow right

What to Know About Breast Cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer affecting women in the United States. This guide will explain breast cancer types and reveal what steps you can take for prevention and treatment.

Oct 23, 2022 | 11:47 AM

Read More arrow right

National Diabetes Awareness Week

Diabetes affects the body’s ability to get energy from glucose. People with this condition are either not able to produce sufficient insulin (Type 1) or are unable to use the insulin their body makes to its full potential (Type 2).

When either of these things occurs, an excess of sugar remains in the blood. Left unchecked, too much sugar in the bloodstream can lead to the development of serious problems like kidney and heart disease, as well as vision loss. Unfortunately, 20% of people with diabetes may never know they have it.

Nov 15, 2022 | 11:19 AM

Read More arrow right

406,000+ starstarstarstarstar Reviews

406,000+ star star star star star Reviews

Feedback from our amazing patients!

4.9
star
google icon star facebook icon

Highest Rated Telemedicine Provider

star
4.9 (13102 Reviews)
star
4.8 (10001 Reviews)
star
4.9 (4570 Reviews)