Thyroid Diseases: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

I thyroid disorders There are many thyroid diseases and they can manifest themselves with symptoms we're unaware of, for a simple reason: they might seem to be caused by normal conditions like 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.

Index of topics

What is the thyroid?

The thyroid is a small gland, about 7 centimeters, with a shape that recalls that of a butterfly. Located at the base of the neck, in front of the larynx, this endocrine gland is precious for the balance of the metabolism, to adjust the frequency of the heartbeat and for 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 growth and regeneration. hair e leather. Without forgetting that in women a thyroid disorder can alter the period.

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 frequent in women and today it is evident that in most cases they present themselves in a asymptomatic and therefore without providing the information necessary to the subject and the competent doctor to understand an immediate identification.

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

Unfortunately, thyroid cancer cases among adolescents in Italy are increasing at a rate of 3 percent per year, particularly in the 15-19 age group, with a higher incidence in central and southern Italy. According to data reported by the Italian Association of Medical Oncology, a total of 12.200 new cases of thyroid cancer are recorded each year in Italy, of which 8.700 involve women. The positive aspect is that the tumor's detection, often due to incidental diagnoses (for example, a color Doppler ultrasound to check blood circulation), results in microcarcinomas that are easily treatable, with a cure rate of around 95 percent. Furthermore, the survival rate after a diagnosis of thyroid cancer is over 90 percent, partly because the most common type is papillary thyroid cancer, which is the least aggressive.

Diagnosis

To diagnose thyroid problems, even in the initial stages, a blood test is sufficient. This initial test can evaluate thyroid hormones (FT3 and FT4) and TSH levels. Subsequently, the doctor may request further diagnostic testing with a thyroid ultrasound. Cholesterol is also a significant indicator of thyroid function: when the thyroid is underactive and poorly functioning, it is difficult to lose weight, despite diet and physical activity, and LDL cholesterol levels increase.

Women are more fragile and exposed to the risks of thyroid disease. This is due to natural causes, although the topic is constantly being explored by scientific research and there are still no certainties. We know that women's increased exposure may be due to pregnancy and breastfeeding, when the thyroid is subjected to overwork, and thyroid hormone production increases by approximately 30-50 percent in the first three months of gestation to meet the fetus's needs. Another very delicate time is menopause, as the reduction in estrogen and testosterone affects thyroid function. It is estimated that the frequency of hypothyroidism during menopause increases from 8 to 10-15 percent.

Thyroiditis

La thyroiditis It is an inflammation of the thyroid gland that can cause abnormalities in hormone production. When the presence of thyroxine – T4 and of triiodothyronine – T3 in the blood is lower or exceeds the limits in quantity, then it can lead to the manifestation of specific disorders or problems.

Among the best known forms of thyroiditis we have:

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

In addition, thyroid inflammation can also be caused by administration of certain drugs or from radiation, especially for chemotherapy or radiotherapy for the treatment of cancer. In these cases, drugs such as interferon, amiodarone, lithium and other medicines used in nuclear medicine.

Acute or infectious thyroiditis, triggered by bacterial infection, is much rarer. Although rare, when it occurs, symptoms include neck swelling, fever e sore throat.

Depending on its progression, thyroiditis can affect the amount of thyroid hormone production. In most cases, thyroid inflammation is a disorder that leads to a reduction in the amount of thyroid hormones in the blood, as in Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

If the inflammatory process is not treated properly and early on, the thyroid may be damaged and lead to a stage where chronic thyroiditis can develop. With limited hormone production, the symptoms are similar to those of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, and even mood swings. trough.

Conversely, if the inflammation is sudden and leads to a sudden change in thyroid status, symptoms of hyperthyroidism may occur, due to cellular damage to the thyroid. This causes a release of thyroid hormones, previously stored within the thyroid, into the blood, resulting in increased levels.

For this type of thyroid disorder, the most common symptoms are restlessness, anxiety, insomnia, palpitations, weight loss.

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 may occur in the presence of various thyroid disorders and concern not only the fatigue physics, but also mental.

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 soreness of the muscle tissue and even limit its full activityAssociated with weakness and tiredness, they may also present muscle cramps and therefore overall it could be difficult to even perform simple actions such as climbing stairs or moving a chair.

5. Weight changes

Weight fluctuation is a symptom of to consider within certain limitsThe cause of weight loss or gain, whether sudden or slow, can depend on a huge number of factors that they could also concern other pathologies o transitional conditions.

With this premise, it is possible to affirm that in cases of hypothyroidism, the lack of hormones can favor theweight gain body. On the other hand, an excessive production of hormones 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 on the mind, can trigger depressions 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

Congenital hypothyroidism, on the other hand, has more specific symptoms. In particular:

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.

Thyroid diseases are very common and affect one in twenty people, first of all women, throughout life. From here it is good to equip yourself with a good prevention.

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.

Some scientific studies demonstrate that, in addition to many other benefits, walk is a very useful physical activity also to protect the thyroid. And this is thanks to the release of hormones thyroid, which regulate some imbalances and because by walking we certainly awaken the “thyroid lazy”, that is, let's stop hypothyroidism.

Thyroid diseases and familial predisposition

Most papillary carcinomas, which therefore also affect the thyroid, are hereditary, linked to genetics. If you have a family history of thyroid disease, it's a good idea to have an endocrinologist check-up every one to two years, complete with specific blood tests and a thyroid ultrasound. Women, who experience hormonal fluctuations throughout their lives, should have their thyroid checked during their menstrual cycle, during pregnancy, and during menopause.

Thyroid diseases: symptoms, diagnosis, and prevention