Do you know many men who suffer from thyroid issues? What about women? Chances are you know at least one woman dealing with thyroid-related issues because women are far more likely to struggle with this gland than men. In fact, 1 in 8 women will develop a thyroid problem over their lifetime, with only 3 percent of men at risk for the same. To get a better understanding of the scope of this issue, check out these frequently asked questions.
What’s the main problem women face?
The most common disorder is called hypothyroidism, meaning the thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone.
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?
When the thyroid underproduces, the metabolism slows, leading to possible weight gain, depression, and lethargy. You might also have irregular periods, dry skin, or cracked nails.
Does anything increase the risk of hypothyroidism?
Thyroid disease varies across the world, depending on the amount of iodine in people’s diets. Smoking can also increase the risk of thyroid problems.
Does iodized salt help?
In general, Americans have gotten enough iodine since salt iodization first began in the 1920s. However, since people have started monitoring their salt intake over the years, iodine levels have decreased steadily since the 1970s. Also, with changes to certain food practices (less iodine in cattle feed and an uptick in sea salt usage), our overall iodine intake is declining.
How does iodine affect the thyroid?
Your body needs iodine to make the thyroid hormone, which is crucial for brain development. In fact, the American Thyroid Association suggests pregnant or breastfeeding women take a vitamin that has at least 150 mcg of iodine.
Can thyroid problems happen after pregnancy?
Yes–many women experience inflammation of the thyroid after giving birth. When this happens, it can leak the thyroid hormone, causing an overproduction. After it runs out, the thyroid can underproduce until the glad heals. In most cases this imbalance rights itself after several weeks but some women experience permanent hypothyroidism.
What is the treatment for hypothyroidism?
Most doctors prescribe synthetic thyroid hormone (in pill form). There are also anti-thyroid drugs available (propylthiouraciland methimazole). In some cases, patients require surgery to remove the thyroid or receive radioactive iodine.
What can women do to maintain a healthy thyroid?
Unfortunately, not much beyond avoiding smoking.
If you think you might have hypothyroidism or another related issue, be sure to let your doctor know. A simple test can tell if you have an over or under-producing thyroid, and the American Thyroid Association recommends getting tested every 5 years beginning at age 35.
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