Tessy Igomu
A neurosurgeon, Dr. James Oshiorenua, says women are about five to eight times more likely to be diagnosed with a thyroid disorder than men.
He said the most common thyroid problems have to do with abnormal production of thyroid hormones, but that it can be well managed with accurate treatment and diagnosis.
According to Mayo Clinic, an online medical platform, the thyroid gland, which is shaped like a butterfly and located in the front of the neck below the ‘Adam’s apple,’ makes the thyroid hormone that helps to regulate the body’s metabolism, including how fast calories are burnt and how fast the heart beats.
It explained that diseases of the thyroid can make someone to either make too much or too little of the hormone and that women are more likely than men to have thyroid diseases, especially right after pregnancy and after menopause.
Speaking with correspondent, the physician noted that thyroid disorder is not life threatening but can be lethal if not well managed.
“Thyroid disorder can be managed through conservative or radical means that has to do with drugs and surgical removal of the thyroid gland – thyroidectomy.
“Your thyroid produces hormones that play a role in many different systems throughout your body.
“When your thyroid makes either too much, it is called hyperthyroidism; while too little is hypothyroidism. Both of these conditions can impact the way the thyroid gland works.
“There are several different types of thyroid disease and they can be benign or malignant,” he explained.
The neurosurgeon said one physical sign of thyroid disorder is anterior neck swelling, adding, “Thyroid gland disorder can also manifest in the form of nervousness, bloating, poor concentration, menstrual changes, pains, weight gain, heat intolerance, and high cholesterol levels.”
He noted that an individual might be at higher risk of developing the condition if they have a family history of thyroid disease.
“You can also be predisposed to thyroid disorder if you take a medication that is high in iodine, have a medical condition like Type 1 diabetes, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis, among others,” he said.
According to Cleveland Clinic, an online medical portal, people with Type 1 diabetes are more prone to developing a thyroid disease because it is an autoimmune disorder.
“If you already have one autoimmune disorder, you are more likely to develop another one.
“For people with Type 2 diabetes, the risk is lower, but still there. If you have Type 2 diabetes, you’re more likely to develop a thyroid disease later in life,” it stated.
Healthline, an online health portal, described an autoimmune disorder as a condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body.
It explained that the immune system normally guards against germs like bacteria and viruses, but when it senses foreign invaders, it sends out an army of fighter cells to attack them.
“Normally, the immune system can tell the difference between foreign cells and your own cells.
“In an autoimmune disease, the immune system mistakes part of your body, like your joints or skin, as foreign. It releases proteins called auto antibodies that attack healthy cells,” it stated.
On how to detect thyroid disease, neurosurgeon Oshiorenua recommends regular testing, adding, “If you have Type 1 diabetes, there might be need to be tested more regularly than other people, especially if you are a woman.
Oshiorenua further advised that in order not to suffer from thyroid disorder, individuals must embrace healthy and active lifestyle.
“We are always in a hurry and end up consuming foods that are detrimental to our wellbeing.
“There is need to avoid processed foods as much as possible, as they can alter the thyroid hormone production.
“Avoid tobacco at all costs, as toxins are released during smoking and they can make the thyroid gland over sensitive.“Also, avoid stress and inculcate exercise into your daily routine,” he advised.
Copyright PUNCH
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: health_wise@punchng.com
The post Women more prone to thyroid disease than men –Neurosurgeon appeared first on Healthwise.
