Did you know that, according to Northwestern Medicine, nearly 60% of people with thyroid disease are unaware they have it? Thyroid problems affect millions of women worldwide, yet many remain undiagnosed or unaware of the issue. The thyroid is vital in regulating various bodily functions, and any disruption can lead to health issues. Let’s explore how to identify symptoms of thyroid problems, the crucial role blood testing labs play in diagnosing thyroid conditions, and what treatment options are available to those struggling with symptoms of thyroid conditions.
Common Types of Thyroid Disorders
There are several different forms of thyroid disorders. The key to treating them is first identifying which you’re dealing with.
Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
Hypothyroidism is marked by an underactive thyroid gland, and often includes symptoms such as fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, hair loss, constipation, brain fog, and dry skin. Hypothyroidism is most commonly caused by an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto’s disease, in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, preventing it from working properly.
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
The opposite of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism is characterized by an overactive thyroid, meaning it produces too much thyroid hormone. This is most commonly caused by another autoimmune disorder called Graves’ disease, but may also be caused by lumps or nodules along the thyroid. Symptoms of an overactive thyroid gland include irregular menstrual symptoms, weight loss, and sensitivity to heat.
Thyroid Nodules and Goiter
Thyroid nodules and goiter are both identified by swelling in the neck, which can often be painful. In some cases, a particularly large goiter may cause difficulty swallowing or breathing, and your neck may feel tight as a result. When the thyroid expands and leads to goiter, it may be caused by a lack of iodine in your body, or as a response to autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease.
Thyroid Cancer
While the exact causes of thyroid cancer are not known, this type of cancer is more prevalent in women, likely due to the amount of estrogen in the body and other hormones regulated by the thyroid. If you’re experiencing painful lumps in your neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or voice changes like hoarseness, speak to your doctor immediately to rule out thyroid cancer.
Early Symptoms of Thyroid Problems in Women
While dealing with thyroid problems can be confusing and perhaps even a little frightening, it is likely your symptoms can be managed and treated with the help of experts and healthcare providers.
Joi+Blokes partners with labs across the country to make quick and easy detection methods accessible no matter where you are, and our team of medical experts are available for virtual consultations so you can find answers for your thyroid concerns from the comfort of your own home.
Weight changes, whether fluctuating up or down, fatigue, brain fog, and bodily changes such as menstrual cycle disruptions, nail and hair changes, or skin dryness may all be symptoms of thyroid problems.
Early detection of thyroid issues can make a huge impact on your health and well-being. At Joi+Blokes, we offer a range of diagnostic labs to help you identify potential health issues. Schedule a consultation today.
When to See a Doctor
While living with thyroid disease symptoms can be an annoyance, some symptoms may require immediate medical attention. If your thyroid symptoms include difficulty breathing or swallowing, vocal changes such as a hoarse or raspy voice, or painful swelling of the neck, those symptoms may indicate more serious conditions, including cancer. Speak to your doctor right away.
Blood tests are crucial in diagnosing thyroid problems. The most common blood tests include:
- Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Test: This test measures the levels of TSH, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the thyroid. Abnormal TSH levels can indicate an underactive or overactive thyroid.
- Free T4 and Free T3 Tests: These tests measure the levels of active thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) in the bloodstream. Abnormal levels can provide further insight into the functioning of the thyroid gland.
- Thyroid Antibody Tests: These tests detect the presence of specific antibodies that attack the thyroid gland. Elevated antibody levels may indicate autoimmune thyroid conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease.
If you’ve been delaying care for your thyroid symptoms out of a fear of being dismissed, Joi+Blokes can provide a safe, affirming, and receptive space for you to raise concerns about your health to a healthcare provider who will listen to you. And while most primary care providers only test for TSH levels, Joi + Blokes helps facilitate a full thyroid panel to help you see the full story of your thyroid health and determine the best next steps for you. Schedule a consultation today, and get resolutions for your thyroid symptoms.
Tips for Managing Thyroid Health
In the meantime, if you’re looking for ways to keep your thyroid healthy or mitigate symptoms of thyroid disease naturally, here are a few tips for at-home remedies:
- Diet: Adopting a diet rich in iodine and other essential nutrients can help care for your thyroid long-term.
- Stress management: Keeping your stress levels to a minimum can help regulate your hormone production, which keeps unnecessary strain off the thyroid.
- Improve your sleep: Healthy sleep habits also help control hormone production, and keep your thyroid healthy.
- Regular health checkups: Regular physicals and check-ins with a primary care provider can help you track changes in your body over time, and can help you identify when thyroid symptoms are becoming unmanageable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can thyroid problems cause weight gain or loss?
Yes. An over or underactive thyroid can lead to weight loss or weight gain, respectively.
Is it possible to have thyroid issues with normal TSH?
Yes, it is possible. This makes tracking your symptoms especially important, and advocating for yourself and what you’re feeling despite what blood work results may show. Joi+Blokes listens to your concerns, and takes into account the complete picture of your health.
How does the thyroid affect hair and skin?
If you’re dealing with an over or underactive thyroid, you may experience weakness in your fingernails, dry skin, and hair loss as a result of the hormone fluctuations throughout your body.
Are thyroid problems permanent?
Thyroid disorders are considered chronic, which means they are ongoing and are not typically “cured.” However, many thyroid disorders have symptoms that can be managed with treatment regimens including medication, therapies, or holistic methods such as diet and lifestyle changes.
Can you reverse thyroid issues naturally?
Lifestyle changes and adjusting your diet to include iodine-rich foods can help keep your thyroid healthy, and may reduce symptoms or prevent them from appearing. However, some underlying conditions or serious diseases such as thyroid cancer require medical intervention.
Final Thoughts
If you experience symptoms of thyroid problems, consult a healthcare professional. They will evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and order blood tests to determine your thyroid function accurately.
Treatment options for thyroid conditions depend on the diagnosis. Hypothyroidism is often treated with synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy, while hyperthyroidism may involve medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery. Additionally, lifestyle changes can help manage thyroid conditions. These include adopting a balanced diet rich in iodine, selenium, and other essential nutrients, reducing stress levels, engaging in regular exercise, and getting sufficient sleep.
You can schedule a personalized consultation with our specialists today for a full thyroid panel.
