Thyroid diseases: symptoms, diagnosis, and prevention

Thyroid disorders are numerous and can manifest with symptoms we often ignore, for a simple reason: they may seem to be caused by normal conditions such as work-related stress or mental and physical fatigue. The main thyroid diseases, which affect women five times more than men, are: hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, hyperthyroidism, goiter, and thyroid nodules.

What is the thyroid?

The thyroid is a small gland , about 7 centimeters long, shaped like a butterfly. Located at the base of the neck, in front of the larynx, this endocrine gland is essential for balancing the metabolism , regulating the heart rate , and ensuring the proper functioning of other organs.

The primary role of the gland is to produce hormones :

• thyroxine - T4
• Triodothyronine - T3

Thanks to which it is able to influence the processes that occur in certain areas of the organism.

First and foremost, hormones play a crucial role in regulating blood cholesterol, heart rate, and vision. They also control an individual's psychological state, muscle condition, and the growth and regeneration of hair and skin . Not to mention that in women, a thyroid disorder can alter the menstrual cycle.

For these reasons, the thyroid must be protected with good, simple, and natural prevention. It's free. Otherwise, there's a risk of developing thyroid disorders, as already happens to approximately 6 million people in Italy.

Thyroid diseases require patients to take medications throughout their lives and sometimes even undergo surgery.

Symptoms of thyroid disease

Thyroid disorders are more common in women, and it is now clear that in most cases they present themselves asymptomatic , thus failing to provide the information needed for immediate identification by the individual and the physician.

It's important to note that the symptoms associated with these conditions can vary depending on the underlying disorder. Specifically, the following are signs that shouldn't be ignored, as they may be due to thyroid dysfunction or more serious conditions.

• Constipation
• Altered perception of the cold or the heat
• Chronic fatigue
• Muscle fatigue and cramps
• Increase or weight loss
• Restlessness
• Psychological distress

Subjects most affected by thyroid cancer

Diagnosis

Thyroiditis

• Thyroiditis of Hashimoto (the most frequent)
• De Quervain: subacute thyroid inflammation
• Thyroid inflammation postpartum
• silent or painless thyroiditis

Additionally, thyroid inflammation can also be caused by the administration of certain medications or radiation , particularly chemotherapy or radiotherapy for cancer treatment. In these cases, drugs such as interferon, amiodarone, lithium, and other medications used in nuclear medicine can interfere with the proper functioning of the thyroid.

Much rarer is the case of acute or infectious thyroiditis, triggered by a bacterial infection. Although rare, the episode, when it occurs, begins with symptoms such as neck swelling, fever , and sore throat.

1. Constipation

Constipation is a symptom experienced with hypothyroidism. Although, as mentioned, thyroid disorders are asymptomatic, a thyroid disorder such as hypothyroidism can sometimes contribute to constipation.

2. Altered perception of cold and heat

The endocrine gland in question plays a role in regulating temperature within the body. In fact, individuals with thyroid disorders may experience an excessive perception of cold, as in the case of hypothyroidism.

Conversely, a massive production of hormones beyond limits, hyperthyroidism, can create conditions of heat intolerance, resulting in profuse and uncontrolled sweating.

3. Permanent tiredness

Symptoms can occur in the presence of various thyroid disorders and involve not only physical but also mental tiredness.

A persistent and ongoing state of fatigue and exhaustion that affects the patient's entire psychophysical sphere could be a sign to consider for the diagnosis of a thyroid disease.

But it's important to remember that tiredness and fatigue can be symptoms of other disorders or simply an unhealthy lifestyle. Therefore, it's important to understand the other associated symptoms and let your doctor evaluate your individual case.

4. Muscle cramps and fatigue

Conditions such as hyperthyroidism can lead to muscle soreness and even limit full muscle activity . Associated with weakness and fatigue, muscle cramps can also occur , making even simple tasks like climbing stairs or moving a chair difficult.

5. Weight changes

Weight fluctuations are a symptom that should be considered within certain limits . The cause of weight loss or gain, whether sudden or slow, can depend on a huge number of factors that could also involve other pathologies or transient conditions.

With this premise, it can be stated that in cases of hypothyroidism, the lack of hormones can promote weight gain . On the other hand, excessive hormone production can stimulate the opposite effect, that is, consuming more energy and therefore promoting weight loss.

6. Restlessness

This is especially true when dealing with hyperthyroidism. The individual tends to act actively, sometimes even excessively, making them hyperactive, nervous, or even borderline anxious.

If the condition is left untreated, the patient may experience excessive stress, nervousness, and mental and physical fatigue. In more severe cases, the individual may risk a nervous breakdown or some form of mental distress.

7. Psychological distress

When it comes to this area, it's complex and impossible to generalize. People experience psychological distress in different ways and depending on their triggers.

What is certain is that in cases of hypothyroidism, psycho-physical fatigue, even chronic, can lower the subject's morale, resulting in a limitation of daily activities.

Lack of vitality, constant and persistent fatigue, especially in the mind, can trigger depression or states of agitation and anxiety.

But in any case, the symptoms described could or could not be related to numerous other problems, so it is always best to consult a general practitioner before jumping to any conclusions.

Congenital hypothyroidism

• Jaundice
• Respiratory difficulties
• Swollen tongue
• Sucking disorders
• Hoarse crying
• Constipation
• Difficulty maintaining a sitting position and keeping the head upright
• Delayed bone development

Prevention

• The thyroid's first defense is a proper diet. Iodine is a mineral that contributes to the development and proper functioning of the thyroid gland, so eat plenty of fish, which contains significant amounts of it. In addition to fish, iodine is found in shellfish, milk, and eggs.
• We can accumulate iodine even at zero cost, simply by going to the beach. Doctors usually recommend sun-beach-sea vacations for hypothyroid patients. However, there are two small precautions: avoid walking on the shoreline and swim when iodine is highest. That is, early in the morning, at sunset, and on days with rough seas.
• Instead, reduce salt and eliminate it sugar refined white wine. Cane wine and honey are better.
• Other foods from reduceRed meat and products containing excessive gluten. Those with thyroid problems should avoid or eat in moderation so-called "goitrogenic" foods: cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, turnips, radishes, millet, and whole grains.
• Foods to eatLegumes, grains, vegetables (especially asparagus and spinach), and fruits (bananas and kiwi). Tubers, especially potatoes, are also good. This is where another thyroid-boosting element comes into play: selenium, a valuable antioxidant for the synthesis of thyroid hormones.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeineThey don't help and can cause problems, especially if drunk in excessive doses.
• Always drink plenty of water throughout the day. And do physical activity, especially bodyweight exercises for your thyroid. Rest and walking are beneficial for the thyroid.
• If the test values ​​are too high, contact us however to the doctor who will indicate the right medications for you. Never make your own prescriptions or diagnoses.

• The most important test is the TSH, which should be performed as directed by your doctor and at the intervals indicated by your doctor.
• Ultrasound examination allows the identification of nodules that are not visible and cannot be palpated.
• To hire iodine, in the correct proportions, the deficiency of which is the main cause of hypothyroidism.
• Check the weight, and try to keep it regular for your height and age.
• Another source to check is excessive hair loss and weak nails.

If any thyroid nodules are asymptomatic and benign, only periodic monitoring through specific ultrasound scans may be prescribed.

Thyroid diseases and familial predisposition

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