Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are highly diagnosed thyroid issues in women. A butterfly shaped gland consist in the middle part of neck is termed as thyroid gland. Its leading role is to produce two hormones; thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Production of these hormones in enough quantity is imperative because both T3 and T4 play a crucial role in controlling numerous bodily functions. The best and most important advantage that they ascertain normal metabolic rate, which is critically needed to maintain health. When the thyroid gland functions improperly, some health issues arise and affect quality of life badly. While looking at thyroid issues, reports indicate that women are four times more vulnerable than men. Thyroid disorders in women are generally not troublesome but treatment in the sort of oral medication becomes indispensable when symptoms are worrisome.
COMMON THYROID PROBLEMS IN WOMEN
Thyroid cancer:-
Cancer that hits the thyroid gland occurs unusually and hence is said to be the most infrequent cause of thyroid disorders. The root cause behind occurrence of this condition is yet unidentified. Those undergoing radiation therapy on the neck and head are at higher risk of acquiring cancer. Radiation therapy comprises bombarding light of exact wavelength on the target site, more particularly the external skin to deal skin problems like acne. But these remedies may damage the thyroid gland and lead in enhancing the possibilities of thyroid cancer.
Thyroid nodules:-
In this medical condition, a part of thyroid gland is engorged because of presence of nodules. These are said to be fluid filled lumps. In some cases, the solid lumps hold blood rather than fluid. The swelling may be because of one or numerous nodules. Whatever may be the instance, it gives rise to occurrence of thyroid dysfunction, ultimately contributing to hyperthyroidism. Sometimes, nodules are extremely vast so to breathe and ingesting food appropriately becomes very complicated. In fact, with nodules, the voice becomes husky and the patient suffers from cough regularly. Intake of foods laden with goitrogenic food on a daily basis is one of the major reasons behind nodule development and worsening thyroid function.
Hypothyroidism symptoms:-
In case, the thyroid problem stimulates hypothyroidism, a condition that is noticeable by inadequate production of T3 and T4, the signs that may takes place includes constant tiredness, constipation, muscle pain, extreme fatigue due to lack of energy, emotional symptoms like depression, unusually elevated cholesterol levels, inflamed joints, weight gain, dry puffy skin highly noticeable on the face, roughness in voice, fragile fingernails, heavy periods and so on.
Hyperthyroidism symptoms:-
Thyroid disorders that enhance the emission of thyroid hormones to unusually elevated level can stimulate symptoms such as mysterious weight loss, too much sweating, rapid heartbeat, regular bowel movement, fatigue, muscle weakness, light periods, difficulty getting peaceful sleep, intolerance to heat and so on.
POSSIBLE CAUSES:
Constant smoking can enhance the possibilities of obtaining thyroid issues. Consuming immunosuppressants is also believed to stimulate thyroid dysfunction. A severe neck injury, shortage of iodine in diet and excessive intake of soy foods are some of major risk factors of thyroid disorders. Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are some of conditions highly responsible for producing harmful effects on the thyroid gland. Apart from these, other causes responsible for onset of this condition are listed below.
Autoimmune disorders:-
Improper thyroid functioning is also associated to autoimmune disorder called as Graves disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In both these situations, the thyroid gland has to confront the burden of immune systems attack. Now, the thyroid gland is not powerful sufficient to avert the immune system onset. The thyroid gland seems swollen and it also loses its ability to function appropriately. Swollen thyroid may either stimulate hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, relying on the quantity of damage induced by the immune system.
Medications:-
Improper use of medications to handle hyperthyroidism is most often responsible for inadequate production of hormones. Although, anti-thyroid medications plays a significant role in calming huge thyroid levels, but if taken excessively can permanently hinder the thyroid gland, which may result in hypothyroidism.
Surgery:-
Surgical procedures including elimination of an integral part of the thyroid gland can also stimulate thyroid dysfunction in women that generally manifest in the form of motionless thyroid.
THYROID DYSFUNCTION AND WEIGHT GAIN
Unexplained weight gain takes place in women who go through from hypothyroidism. In hypothyroidism, decline in formation of thyroid hormones is noticed. This is because the body fails to control the metabolic rate. To be more particular, in hypothyroidism metabolism rate decelerates substantially. As you all might familiar, metabolism is a process in which food gets transformed into energy. As the pace of metabolic rate cuts down in hypothyroidism, energy production diminishes and the maximum food taken is stored as fat deposits. This extra gathered fat ultimately contributes to weight gain.
THYROID ISSUES AFTER PREGNANCY
Any of the thyroid disorders discussed above can takes place after pregnancy. According to studies, approx 5 percent of women experiences thyroid issues after pregnancy. After giving birth to child, the new mother may exhibit the existence of swollen thyroid. The unusual inflammation interrupts with the normal functioning of the thyroid and ultimately induces excessive or too less production of thyroid gland.
The main purpose of the treatment is steadying thyroid levels. After identifying the type of thyroid disorder, doctors will recommend suitable medications to renovate thyroid levels. In order to cure hyperthyroidism, anti-thyroid medicines are suggested that aid to decelerate thyroid activity. On the other hand, women affected with hypothyroidism are suggested to consume thyroid tablets to increase thyroid function. It is wise to consult the physician if you examine or notice any of the aforesaid symptoms so that you get the medical attention as early as possible. This can prevent you from future complications.