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Small but powerful. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, above the clavicle. It controls many of the body's most important functions and produces hormones that affect breathing, heart rate, digestion and body temperature. We then answer six key questions about this vital gland for human metabolism.
What are the thyroid problems?
When we talk about disorders of the functioning of the thyroid gland, the most known are: hyperthyroidism (when the thyroid gland produces more thyroid hormones than the body needs it). And hypothyroidism (when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone). But they are not the only ones. In addition, there are other problems such as goiter, which is the enlarged thyroid; also, thyroid cancer and nodules: lumps in the thyroid. And thyroiditis: swelling of the thyroid.
What are the main symptoms of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism?
"The most characteristic symptoms of hyperthyroidism are lack of muscle strength, insomnia, nervousness, tremors, palpitations, changes in eyes (bulging eyes) and goiter, among others", says Ana María Orlandi, head of the thyroid department of the endocrinology unit of Álvarez Hospital and president of the Argentine Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism.
And highlights the most characteristic symptoms of hypothyroidism: fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, severe constipation, drowsiness, generalized edema, dry skin and fragile nails, among others. "In both cases, the symptoms may be rare in subclinical or severe disease when the consultation or diagnosis is delayed and the alteration progresses," he said.
What is subclinical thyroid disease?
Subclinical hyperthyroidism is an image of mild or monosymptomatic hyperthyroidism, characterized by low levels of TSH and normal peripheral hormones (T4 and T3). Conversely, subclinical hypothyroidism is a mild degree of thyroid insufficiency, which occurs when the TSH is elevated and the peripheral hormones are normal.
And how is it treated?
The treatment of these conditions depends on the age of the patient, the biological moment, the link with pregnancy, the search for fertility and several conditions. "Given these factors, treatment may be delayed, started gradually or in the same way as a thyroid disease," says Dr. Orlandi.
These diseases affect women more than men. It's like that? Because?
"Although a cause-and-effect association is not clearly demonstrated, it is thought that since women have 2 X chromosomes, they could potentially receive a double dose of genetic susceptibility.This would seem to be clearer for disease development. thyroid autoimmune, "says the expert.
And how do these diseases impact on women's health?
In alterations of the menstrual cycle. The thyroid helps to control the menstrual cycle. Depending on the amount of thyroid hormone, the rules may be very rare, prolonged or irregular. Thyroid disease can also cause menstruation to go away for months or even longer.
Does it also cause difficulties to conceive?
Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can make pregnancy difficult. Indeed, thyroid hormone problems can alter the balance of the hormones responsible for ovulation. Several studies have found a higher incidence of clinical or subclinical thyroid insufficiency in infertile women compared to control women. But no data to date can demonstrate the true incidence of infertility in these women.
Does this cause problems during pregnancy?
Thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy can cause health problems in the mother and baby. For example, pregnancies in hypothyroid women are associated with more abortions and / or premature births, according to the expert. This is why it is important to have controls to eliminate or detect problems before becoming pregnant and during pregnancy.
What is postpartum thyroiditis?
It consists of inflammation of the thyroid after delivery and affects 10% of women. People with postpartum thyroiditis often feel tired and in a bad mood. It is important to know that this condition usually goes unnoticed because the symptoms are very similar to those of postpartum depression. It could also be due to premature menopause. If the immune system causes thyroid disease, other glands, such as the ovaries, can be compromised. This can cause an early menopause (the cycle stops before the age of 40).
TAPIA PILAR
LA NACIÓN (Argentina) – GDA
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