Did you know that fatigue, constipation, weight gain or loss, and even depression can indicate a thyroid condition, yet some other individuals are asymptomatic? January is Thyroid Awareness Month, and to encourage people to learn more, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, launched the Power of Paisley campaign with a blue paisley tie as the new symbol of thyroid awareness.
According to AACE, 30 million Americans have thyroid disorders, but half remain undiagnosed and untreated. Thyroid disorders are more common than diabetes, heart disease and breast cancer; affect women more than men; and, run in families. Also thyroid cancer is one of the fastest growing cancers in America, but the most curable.
This small butterfly-shaped gland, in the base of the neck below the Adam’s apple, is vital to your well-being because it affects the function of every cell, tissue and organ. Thyroid conditions can occur at any age and if untreated can cause high cholesterol, infertility, osteoporosis, and even death.
There are a few ways to detect this condition. Ask your healthcare provider to examine your neck during routine exams because early detection is the key to successful treatment. If you have symptoms of a thyroid disorder your doctor will perform a TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) blood test to measure the gland’s function. The results will indicate if you have hypothyroidism (insufficient thyroid hormone) or hyperthyroidism (overproduction of thyroid hormone).
Doctors also recommend an at-home “neck check,” using a hand-held mirror and a glass of water, which can be effective in detecting a lump. If you see a bulge or protrusion in the area around the thyroid when you swallow the water, you may have an enlarged thyroid that will need testing.
Ask your physician for more information if you have questions about your thyroid.
Arnold I. Pallay, M.D. FAAFP
Frank Iannetta, MD, FAAFP
Sandra Hoenig, M.D
