www.womanthismonth.com 71 September 2013 iodine deficiency, certain drugs, thyroid surgery, treatment for hyperthyroidism and it’s sometimes seen with pregnancy. Researchers argue that stress and environmental toxins contribute to hormonal dysfunction. Symptoms of hypothyroidism: • fatigue, lethargy and weight gain • dry skin and scalp with associated hair loss • cold intolerance • decreased appetite • constipation • muscle pain, joint pain, weakness in the extremities • depression and mood swings • menstrual abnormalities The good news is that hypothyroidism is a manageable condition and requires lifelong replacement of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine for most people. However, if it is left untreated, symptoms may progress and can ultimately lead to serious complications including coma. Hence, it’s imperative to schedule a doctor’s appointment and get tested if you experience any of the above mentioned symptoms. What is hyperthyroidism? Hyperthyroidism (or an over active thyroid) refers to a condition that occurs when the thyroid produces excess amounts of hormones and leads the body into a state of metabolic overdrive. It is most commonly caused due to an autoimmune disorder known as Graves’ disease. Our body’s own immune system attacks the thyroid cells and stimulate it to produce more thyroid hormones. Other causes include thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid, post infection or pregnancy), non-cancerous lumps of the thyroid (known as toxic or multinodular goitre) and excessive intake of thyroid hormone. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism: • weight loss with increased appetite • heat intolerance, excessive sweating • anxiety, irritability and difficulty concentrating • rapid heart rate • increased frequency of bowel movements • tremor of hand • menstrual abnormalities • bulging of the eyes • skin thinning along with hair loss • fatigue and insomnia It is a condition that is very well controllable with a wide range of medications and in some cases surgery. Left untreated, it can lead to many complications such as heart problems, osteoporosis and a condition known as thyrotoxicosis (or thyroid storm), which is a sudden intensification of symptoms that can lead to potentially fatal outcomes. Expert advice Thyroid disorders are a global phenomenon these days; more and more women are being diagnosed every day. Dr Saeed Khalaf, consultant endocrinologist at the Salmaniya Medical Hospital, helps us understand the risks of these common disorders. “Even till this day too many thyroid related issues go unnoticed. Symptoms are overlooked or misinterpreted as pure signs of stress or depression. Thyroid disorders have always been common. It’s just that people are more aware and there are better screening and diagnostic methods today,” Dr Khalaf explains. The risk factors: • gender and age • family history • surgery or radioactive iodine exposure to the thyroid • pregnancy • smoking • iodine deficiency, excess iodine supplementation • various drugs and medications • over consumption of soy products • raw goitrogenic foods like cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and turnips • highly stressful life events • nutritional deficiencies • infections • use of artificial sweeteners Environmental factors, diet and stress contribute to thyroid disease. However, women can overcome this. “Some of the risk factors are avoidable, reversible and manageable. Women should be proactive and be more aware. Controlling stress, diet and environmental factors are beneficial to the overall health of women,” he states. According to the expert, the potential complications of untreated hypo hyperthyroidism are numerous. Hypothyroidism can lead to goitre, increased cholesterol levels, heart problems, mental health issues, impair fertility, cause birth defects in children and lead to a severe but rare complication known as myxedema coma, which requires immediate medical attention. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, can lead to heart problems, osteoporosis, eye problems, red swollen skin and a severe complication called thyrotoxicosis, which is a sudden intensification of symptoms, leading to a fever, a rapid pulse and even delirium. Immediate medical care is necessary in this case as well.
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