The most common thyroid disorder seen among adults in India is hypothyroidism. Read on to learn the causes, symptoms, and treatment of thyroid disorders.
Perhaps one of the most prevalent endocrine problems worldwide is thyroid disorders. India is also no exception. It is estimated that around 42 million people in India have thyroid disorders, which include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter/iodine deficiency disorders, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and thyroid cancer. The most common thyroid disorder in India is hypothyroidism, affecting one in ten adults.
“The simplicity of diagnosis, accessibility of medical care, and the relative visibility of thyroid enlargement differentiate thyroid problems from other diseases. The cornerstone of treatment remains early diagnosis and appropriate treatment,” he says. doctor Subhramanian Kannan, Diabetes and Endocrinology Consultant, NH Health City, Bangalore.
Speaking with HealthSite, Dr. Kannan sheds light on the prevalence of thyroid disorders among Indian women, as well as causes and treatment of thyroid disorders.
Know what is thyroid first
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces hormones that influence every cell, tissue, and organ in the body; therefore, thyroid health is extremely important. Thyroid hormones play vital roles in growth, neuronal development, reproduction and regulation of energy metabolism. Consequently, thyroid hormone disorders significantly affect a person’s well-being and quality of life, and therefore, thyroid hormone deficiency or excess can trigger a number of health complications.
Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism: Causes and Symptoms
Thyroid disorders can be broadly classified into two types: hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, hair loss and depression. On the contrary, hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, nervousness and increased heart rate.
Early detection, particularly in cases of severe hypothyroidism and early hyperthyroidism, can lead to better treatment outcomes and effective management of the condition. But correct detection, diagnosis and treatment are important.
Women at higher risk for thyroid disorders
In India, thyroid disorders are prevalent and women are more likely to develop thyroid disorders than men, with nearly 1 in 10 Indian women estimated to develop a thyroid disorder before the age of 60.
Hypothyroidism can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, fatigue, muscle and joint pain and, in severe conditions, cause fluid to build up around the heart and lungs and ultimately result in lowered body temperature and coma. The state of hyperthyroidism can lead to weakening of the bones and irregular heartbeat. This can sometimes lead to a stroke/paralysis.
Treatment of Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid conditions can be treated effectively through medications, nuclear medicine therapies and surgery in selected cases.
world thyroid day
World Thyroid Day is celebrated on the 25th of May every year with the aim of raising awareness of thyroid health and educating on prevention and treatment of thyroid disorders prevalent among people. World Thyroid Day serves as an annual reminder of the need to raise awareness, increase understanding and encourage people to take care of their health by being more vigilant, getting regular check-ups and seeking medical advice if they experience any worrisome symptoms. .
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