The thyroid is complicated, and while understanding your thyroid is important to keep an eye out for future medical concerns, it is good to know a few basic facts about it. Many thyroid conditions come with non-specific symptoms such as coldness or feeling tired, which is why it is very important to consult a physician with any thyroid-related concerns. Here are five facts about your thyroid that might help you understand it a little better.
Women are Most Likely to Have Thyroid Issues
One in eight women is likely to develop thyroid problems at some point in their lifetime, a fact most likely once menopause develops and after pregnancy occurs. The most likely of these potential thyroid conditions is hypothyroidism, a condition that indicates that the thyroid gland itself is not creating enough of the thyroid hormone into your bloodstream. It is also known as an underactive thyroid. Symptoms can include:
· Feeling cold
· Fatigue
· Weak muscles
· Unexplained weight gain
Thyroid Disorders are Not Preventable
This means that treatment of your thyroid issues is a priority if they do show up, as prevention is not a viable path. In fact, 20 million Americans are believed to have an unpreventable thyroid condition of some kind. Once diagnosed, the best bet is to speak with your doctor about how to prevent the thyroid condition from getting worse, working on how you can best reduce the condition’s impact on your life and your body.
Stress Makes Thyroid Conditions Worse
Stress isn’t the only factor that can worsen thyroid conditions, but it is a big one. Many health problems can make thyroid conditions worse, in fact. Illness and pregnancy are other factors that can affect overall thyroid health. Maintaining your personal health is integral to maintaining thyroid health, so rest and exercise are incredibly important for your thyroid to maintain that level of health.
Thyroid Disorders Should be Taken Seriously
Just because they are not preventable does not mean you shouldn’t seek out treatment once you know you have a thyroid problem. Working with a physician will help you manage whatever problems you are discovered to have so that the thyroid problem doesn’t worsen, as it can have serious effects on your health.
Always Look Toward Fact-Based Treatments
Avoid looking at alternative, unproven, untested treatments for thyroid conditions – or any health conditions for that matter. Some alternative therapies work for some conditions, but with the thyroid, it’s best not to take things into your own hands. Consult with a doctor and look at science-based and fact-based options for taking care of your thyroid condition. Even if you think you need a second opinion, make sure that the second opinion is coming from someone with a grasp of the facts.
Summary
For any thyroid condition, be aware that your overall health can affect it, and the worse it gets, the worse your overall health can get. Your best bet is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and consult with your physician on any medications or treatments that might alleviate your symptoms.