Thyroid Disease Symptoms
If you have thyroid disease symptoms, you may want to see a doctor. The symptoms may include weight changes, heart palpitations, and unusual gastrointestinal problems. The first step is to determine the cause of your symptoms. Thyroid problems can be caused by over or under functioning. A surgeon may perform surgery to correct the problem.
What are early warning signs of thyroid problems?
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck that produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. It can be affected by a number of health conditions. When this gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to an imbalance of hormones in the body, which can lead to an increased risk of developing other illnesses.
The symptoms of thyroid problems can range from unexplained tiredness to constipation. They can also manifest in mood changes, muscle weakness, and weight gain.
How do I know if I have thyroid disease?
The first step to finding out if you have thyroid disease is to have a blood test. While thyroid blood test results may vary from person to person, they can help your physician determine whether you have the disorder. The second step involves getting a thyroid scan, which allows your healthcare provider to examine your thyroid gland. A thyroid scan is a powerful tool for detecting any problems with your thyroid gland, including any swelling.
The symptoms of thyroid disease can mimic those of common issues, such as lack of sleep and stress. The good news is that most thyroid problems are treatable and patients can lead a healthy lifestyle. Once the problem is detected, your healthcare provider will determine the best treatment option for you. The goal of treatment is to manage the symptoms and control hormone levels.
What is the main cause of thyroid disease?
There are a number of conditions that can cause thyroid disorders. Some are hereditary and pass down through families, while others develop with age. These conditions can affect young children, infants, adolescents, and the elderly. Women are more likely to suffer from thyroid disorders than men, but it can strike at any age. The most common time for these conditions to develop is after menopause, when hormone levels in the body decrease.
Overactive thyroid is also a problem. This can happen due to a number of causes, but the most common is Graves’ disease. In this condition, the immune system produces antibodies that cause the thyroid to overproduce thyroid hormone. This overproduction can result in a number of health problems, including a pounding heart and nervousness.
What food should be avoided in thyroid?
People with hypothyroidism should minimize their intake of gluten, which is found in grains. This protein can irritate the small intestine and interfere with the absorption of thyroid hormones. According to Ruth Frechman, a dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, eating too much gluten can increase the risk of developing celiac disease, which can worsen symptoms.
Soy is another food to avoid for people with thyroid problems. While soy is rich in iodine, too much can cause the condition. Soy milk is also a food to avoid if you have symptoms of hypothyroidism. Seaweed is another food to avoid. It contains high levels of antioxidants, and has little natural sugar. Seaweed is also high in iodine. Although seaweed can be a food to limit, it is not a good choice for people with thyroid issues.
