We’ve all heard the word ‘thyroid’ used and probably many of us know that it is a gland that is found within the body. Some may even have heard of friends and loved ones with thyroid issues that have affected their health. But what do we really know about the thyroid?
The thyroid gland is located between your voice box and collar bone and is no bigger than your thumb. This gland may be small but it plays a huge role in the operation of your major organs including your brain, heart and liver. It also affects your metabolism, mood, bone health and menstrual cycle. Here are some other facts you may not know about your thyroid gland.
How your thyroid works: Your thyroid works by pumping out the hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) which are partially composed of iodine. These hormones affect your heart rate, controlling blood flow; your fertility by influencing your menstrual cycle; your bones and the rate at which they break down; your weight due to their influence on your metabolism; your brain affecting your ability to concentrate; and your skin regulating its appearance and moisture.
It’s hard to believe that your thyroid gland is responsible for so many of your body’s functions but it’s true. That’s why it’s important to know the basic facts of thyroid health and take care of your body.
Thyroid Issues are Common: There are many people with thyroid disease. These conditions are more likely to affect women. It is suspected that this is because of the estrogen found in women’s bodies. It also may be because women are more susceptible to autoimmune diseases which can bring on thyroid issues. The most common thyroid issues are hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid).
Be Familiar with the Symptoms: There are many symptoms of both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism that you may want to familiarize yourself with. However, many people and physicians misdiagnose themselves with these conditions due to evidence of symptoms that may arise from slightly elevated levels of the T3 and T4 hormones. Taking medicine unnecessarily can cause heart palpitations and symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism.
Know Your Neck: Many people misdiagnose themselves with thyroid disease when symptoms could be caused by perimenopause or unhealthy habits. If you suspect you may have thyroid disease, you may want to try this simple at-home test: Use a handheld mirror and direct it where the thyroid is located. Take a sip of water and see if you detect a protrusion in that area. If you do, it could be a sign of thyroid disease and you may want to consult a physician.
Keep Your Thyroid Healthy: There are a few healthy habits you may want to practice keeping your thyroid healthy. These include getting iodine from foods like fish, dairy, grains, and processed eggs. You may also want to filter your water, especially if it’s found to contain perchlorate, a chemical that interferes with your body’s absorption of iodine. Avoid triclosan, an antibacterial agent which can be found in some soaps. Also, avoid using nonstick as it may contain perfluorochemicals which can lead to thyroid disease.
It’s hard to believe that your thyroid gland is responsible for so many of your body’s functions but it’s true. That’s why it’s important to know the basic facts of thyroid health and take care of your body. Thyroid conditions are common but they are also treatable and manageable. Get the facts to learn all you can about caring for this important gland.
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