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Understanding troublesome thyroid

When the thyroid proves to be a pain in the neck

NECK CHECK A malfunctioning thyroid affects more women than men

There is a small butterfly shaped gland in the neck called the thyroid. A well-functioning thyroid gland is essential for normal growth and development. It produces iodine-containing hormones that help to regulate the body's growth, function and metabolism. Like all the other glands in our bodies, we ignore its existence till it starts malfunctioning.

The thyroid gland makes and secretes two major iodine containing hormones (T3 and T4) which act on specific target cells or organs and are carried around in the bloodstream bound to certain proteins. Too much or too little thyroid hormone undermines health.

Therefore it is important to identify and treat both excessive (hyperthyroidism) as well less (hypothyroidism), as early as possible before major damage takes place.

A malfunctioning thyroid affects more women than men. Dr. Govind Verma, a physician and gastroenterologist, says that for every three women, one man suffers with similar symptoms except the menstrual one.

Surprisingly, older women are more prone and suffer more. The symptoms are such that many women treat them as part of the menopausal stress - hair falling out, puffy face, weight gain, dry skin, cold, exhaustion, drowsiness, depression and excessive bleeding during periods. There is an unexplained weight gain and it seems that the moons on the fingernails disappear. These are the preliminary signs of an under-active thyroid.

An overactive thyroid can cause mood swings, erratic blood pressure, aching limbs and tiredness all over, accompanied by unexplained weight loss (in spite of a good appetite), tremors, palpitations, heat intolerance and bulging eyes. In some cases, menstrual periods also come to a sudden stop and one may not have them for a couple of months or more till the problem is identified. Once treatment begins they start again.

Till about 20 , thyroid problems went undetected, especially among older people where it was passed off as age related. Today, thyroid problems are being detected in the early stages and treatment ensures that a `pill-a-day' can live comfortably for the rest of one's life. Nowadays simple blood tests can identify the problem.

The tests are known as Thyroid Function Test, which includes the Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), T3 and T4 tests. For these tests, it is recommended that the blood be taken on an empty stomach (fasting). For a second opinion report, sometimes the test is done at random also. At this point, it is important to see a specialist so that a further clinical examination can be done and the correct dosage etc of the medication can be given. The specialist will also be able to tell you which kind of thyroid trouble you have.

Dr. Govind Verma, says, "It is perfectly possible for a person with a malfunctioning thyroid to live comfortably on medication. Only in extreme cases surgery is required."

SHYAMOLA KHANNA

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