Most people have probably heard of the thyroid. However, many underestimate the power of this workhorse gland. A small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck, the thyroid influences the function of our critical organs, including the heart, brain, liver, kidneys, and skin.
Understanding the importance of our thyroid gland is one thing. But do we know what to watch for if our thyroid gland begins to malfunction?
More than 30 million Americans will develop some form of thyroid condition. And up to 60% of those with thyroid disease are unaware of their condition.
A couple of common risk factors associated with thyroid disorders are Type 1 diabetes and family history. But anyone can be affected by thyroid issues. A thyroid can be “overactive” or “underactive.” Each condition has different effects on the body. That’s why paying attention to signals your body may be telling you is essential.
- Have you felt more tired lately or had trouble sleeping?
- Any changes in your memory or concentration?
- Irregular or rapid heartbeat?
- Dry, itchy skin?
- Unexplained hair loss?
- Unexplained changes in weight gain or loss?
- Irritability, depression, or anxiety that may be out of the norm?
- Joint and muscle pain and weakness?
Of course, other health conditions can also prompt many of these symptoms. Talking to your medical provider is the first step to determining if you need further testing – for your thyroid function or something else. A simple blood test can often verify thyroid levels and what treatments may be best to help level-out thyroid function.
Visit ThyroidAwareness.com to take a short quiz and learn more about your risk factors. Click here to find simple questions you can ask your provider and pharmacist about thyroid conditions, testing, and medications.
Source: AACE, American Association of Clinical Endocrinology
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