Thyroid disease is very common all over the world. Although it’s impossible to prevent or cure thyroid disease, it is manageable, and early detection can be key in treating it and preventing health complications that may arise as a result. That’s why it’s good to find out if you’re at risk for thyroid disease and look out for early signs and symptoms.
Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, is commonly caused by Graves’ disease. This disease occurs when your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. The damage that results can cause your body to produce too much of the thyroid hormone. Hyperthyroidism can also be caused by pituitary gland problems and certain medications including iodine pills, amiodarone and interferon.
Here are some other risk factors for hyperthyroidism:
- Being female
- Being over 60
- Having an autoimmune disease (like diabetes)
- Having a family history of thyroid or autoimmune disease
- Having a personal history of thyroid problems
- Taking medications that put you at risk for hyperthyroidism
Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, is commonly caused by the autoimmune condition Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This occurs when the immune system attacks healthy tissue in the thyroid gland. The medications that can cause hyperthyroidism can also cause hypothyroidism.
Some risk factors for hypothyroidism include:
- Being female
- Being over 60
- Exposure to radiation in the neck
- Prior thyroid surgery
- Having a family history of thyroid disease
- Having a family history of autoimmune disease
- Being Asian or Caucasian
- Experiencing hormonal changes due to pregnancy
- History of lithium use
- Having chromosomal abnormalities
Thyroid nodules can also be a concern when thinking about thyroid health. These are solid or fluid filled lumps that form within your thyroid. Although thyroid nodules are often noncancerous, they can grow to a point where it can be difficult to swallow or breath. In any case, it is a good idea to have them checked out.
Risk factors for nodules include:
- Insufficient dietary iodine
- Personal history of thyroid disease
- Family history of thyroid nodules
- Hypothyroidism
- Women are at higher risk for nodules than men, but men are at higher risk for cancerous nodules
If you feel you are at risk for any of these conditions or think you may be developing symptoms, it is best to consult a doctor. Regular physical exams can help a doctor diagnose a thyroid condition early on and help to bring the hormone levels back into balance. You can not prevent or cure a thyroid condition but early detection is key in its treatment and manageability. It is best to do all you can for your health and to defend against thyroid conditions affecting your quality of life.
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