A simple blood test (TSH, T3, T4) can determine your thyroid status. Thyroid can be controlled with the right medications and a healthy diet. People with thyroid conditions should be careful to consume foods like cabbage and broccoli in moderation.
The disorders are caused by an increase or decrease in the production of thyroid hormones. The 6 main factors that lead to this are:
1. Iodine Deficiency
The body needs iodine to produce thyroid hormone. When the amount of iodine in the diet is low, the gland is unable to produce the hormone, which causes hypothyroidism.
2. Autoimmune diseases
This is a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks its own thyroid gland.
Hashimoto’s disease: This slows down thyroid function.
Graves’ disease: This causes excessive production of thyroid hormone.
3. Stress
Excessive mental stress can affect the hormone levels in the body. This can reduce the functioning of the thyroid gland and aggravate existing problems.
4. Genetics
If someone in the family has thyroid problems, it is more likely to be inherited. This risk is eight times higher in women than in men.
5. Hormonal changes
During pregnancy or menopause, severe hormonal changes in women’s bodies can affect the functioning of the thyroid gland.
6. Inflammation of the gland (Thyroiditis)
The thyroid gland can become inflamed due to a viral infection or other causes. This causes excess hormones stored in the gland to be released into the blood.
Main symptoms to watch out for:
Unexplained weight gain or loss.
Chronic fatigue and insomnia.
Hair loss, dry skin.
Irregular menstrual cycles.
