World Thyroid Day, celebrated on 25
th May every year since 2008, aims to spread awareness about the thyroid gland, its disorders, prevention of the thyroid diseases and their treatment. Today many people are affected by thyroid disorders, but are unobservant about the condition until the problem becomes severe.
Let us get an insight about this butterfly-shaped gland present in our body on this World Thyroid Day.
Thyroid Gland:
Thyroid gland is present in the front of the neck and below the laryngeal prominence in human body. The main function of thyroid gland is to control the metabolism of the body.
Thyroid Disorders:
Thyroid disorders affect men as well as women, but women are up to eight times more likely to have thyroid problems than men.
The major cause of having a thyroid problem is iodine deficiency in human body.
Following are the most common thyroid disorders:
- Hyperthyroidism – It is a condition where thyroid gland produces the thyroid hormone in excess, which increases body’s metabolism to a high rate. The accelerated metabolism may cause rapid weight loss, profuse sweating, nervousness and irregular heartbeat.
- Hypothyroidism– It is a condition where thyroid gland produces the thyroid hormone in moderation, which reduces the metabolism of the body. The lowered metabolism results in weight gain, depression, fatigue and muscle weakness.
- Thyroiditis – The inflammation of the thyroid gland is referred to as thyroiditis. Initially, this condition causes surplus flow of thyroid hormone, resulting in hyperthyroidism and later restricts the hormone production resulting in hypothyroidism.
- Thyroid Nodules – A thyroid nodule is any lump formed in the base of the neck. This lump can be solid or filled with fluid. It causes difficulty in swallowing and hoarseness in the voice.
- Thyroid Cancer – The cause of thyroid cancer has not been discovered yet, but the disease is curable and patient’s survival rates are quite high.
Thyroid Diagnosis:
Thyroid disorders are generally diagnosed with blood tests to measure the levels of thyroid hormones and TSH. Thyroid nodules are examined with thyroid scans. Your medical history and examination reveals a great deal about your thyroid health.
Thyroid Treatment:
Different thyroid disorders have different treatments. While most of the thyroid problems can be treated with medications, a few may need you to undergo a surgery.
We urge you to ensure safety of yourself and your family members by spreading awareness about thyroid. The disease may need urgent attention after getting diagnosed and the treatment may cost a substantial amount, so make sure to explore
health insurance plans in India and purchase a cover at the earliest.
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