By Dr. Rashida Melinkeri

World Thyroid Awareness Month

January, 2021

While we all understand the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of health ailments, thyroid disorders remain one of the most common but under -diagnosed health ailments across the globe. January is observed as ‘Thyroid Awareness Month’ and presents an opportunity to increase awareness about this small but important organ in our body.

The disorder is generally seen in adults above 35 years and as far as hypothyroidism is concerned, it is predominant in women . Women should be at the heart of any campaign undertaken for awareness on thyroid as if left untreated in women, it can cause elevated cholesterol levels, blood pressure, an increased rate of cardiovascular complications, decreased fertility and depression; and in pregnant women, placental abnormalities and increased risks for the baby’s well-being.
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. It produces hormones that regulate body temperature, heart rate, weight and blood pressure.
Some of the thyroid disorders that are commonly seen amongst adults are hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer and thyroid nodules.
When the thyroid gland is unable to produce enough hormones, the condition is called hypothyroidism. It is mostly an autoimmune disorder and symptoms include weight gain, constipation, dry skin, fatigue, joint pain, depression etc. This is normally treated through medication.
When the thyroid gland is overactive and produces hormones in excessive quantities, the condition is called hyperthyroidism. Symptoms might include weight loss, rapid heart rate, sweating, diarrhoea, trouble sleeping amongst others. Hyperthyroidism is treated through medication, radioactive iodine therapy, surgery etc.
Some of the other disorders include thyroid cancers and nodules. Tumours can develop in the thyroid gland. Most of these are non-cancerous but others are malignant. The symptoms of thyroid cancer include lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, swollen lymph nodes and changes in voice. As far as Thyroid nodules are concerned, most of them are non-cancerous.
If you feel you may have thyroid disease, or want to know more about these illnesses, contact your doctor. Doing so in time, thyroid disorders can be managed effectively and one can lead a normal life.

Dr. Rashida Melinkeri

Associate Consultant Physician and Lipidologist General Medicine