Thyroid related diseases can be completely cured if diagnosed and treated at the right time. Thyroid hormone regulates the normal function of vital organs of the body like the heart, kidney, liver, as well as cells and tissues. January is thyroid awareness month, which we celebrate to provide information, raise awareness, and encourage patients to get the disease treated. (1) The prevalence of thyroid dysfunction is around 5% and subclinical cases are 4 to 15% across the world. In India, the undiagnosed cases are even higher. Hence, let us all take active steps to combat this ailment. (2)

What is Thyroid?

Thyroid is a gland present below Adam’s apple at the base of the neck.  It looks like a small butterfly. It produces thyroid hormones that spread throughout the body to regulate the metabolism of different organs. The medical condition occurs when this gland secrets overactive or underactive thyroid hormone.

 

(3) Also Read- Role of Vitamin D & Calcium in the Human Body

 

What is Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a health condition that occurs when the thyroid gland secrets excess hormone than what is required by the body. This abnormally speeds up the metabolism and functions of different organs, which may affect the body, such as an increase in the heart rate, increase in kidney function, etc.

One of the most common diseases that result due to hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease. It is a condition related to the immune system. The symptoms are rapid weight loss, bulging eyes, fast metabolism. Treatment of hyperthyroidism is possible; however, if left untreated it may lead to osteoporosis, cardiac disorder, and complications in pregnancy. (4)

What is Hypothyroidism?

The health condition related to underactive thyroid hormone secretion is called hypothyroidism. It causes anxiety attacks and slows down the metabolism and function of the body. A common disease caused by the hyposecretion of thyroid hormone is Hashimoto’s disease.

Hashimoto’s disease symptoms are weight gain, muscle weakness, fatigue, depression, excessive menstrual bleeding, slow heart rate, unusual sweating, hoarse voice, etc. It can also be treated with proper medication. If left untreated, it may take a serious turn. (5)

What is TSH?

TSH stands for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone. It is released by the pituitary gland present in the brain. It signals the thyroid gland to make and secret thyroid hormones. The level of TSH in the blood indicates if the patient has normal thyroid hormone levels in the body, is suffering from hyperthyroidism, or hypothyroidism.

What is a normal TSH level? This is a key question to understand if a person is suffering from a thyroid-related disease and needs treatment. Hence, the objective of Thyroid Awareness Month is to check the TSH level. (6)

The normal range of TSH is 0.4 to 4.0 milliunits per liter (mU/L) as stated by the American Thyroid Association. Low TSH indicates hyperthyroidism. The hypothyroidism range is between 4-10 (mU/L). However, to determine the syndrome, one may check T3 & T4 levels also.

T3 or triiodothyronine and T4 or thyroxine is a form of thyroid hormone. The function of thyroxine is to regulate body temperature, weight, and strength of muscle. (7)

How to Observe Thyroid Awareness Month this year?

• Do a quick thyroid neck check. Stand in front of the mirror, focus on the lower part of the neck above the collar bone, now swallow some water. If any protrusion appears, then you must consult a doctor.
• Encourage family and acquaintances to observe the symptoms of thyroid and take necessary precautions. Some symptoms are the sensation of shivering or cold, trouble sleeping, and difficulty swallowing.
• Organise campaigns on social media or share posts to enhance awareness.

Medication for Thyroid

Levothyroxine , Methimazole , Liothyroine are some commonly used medicines for treating thyroid. These drugs restore the normal level of thyroid hormone in the body. Also Read- Role of Guaifenesin in Managing Chest and Throat Congestion

The Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients of medicines is an important factor that determines the effectiveness of curing the disease. Anzen Exports has dedicated 30 years to sourcing the superlative quality of API and exporting it to drug manufacturers across the world. With a pledge for serving mankind in combating diseases, Anzen is vigilant round the clock.

The Take Home

The diagnosis procedure of thyroid disorder is very simple and cost-effective. One must do a blood test to check the thyroid level even if there is no symptom. Thyroid hormone plays a major role in the body’s functioning, hence, its wellbeing is necessary. Diagnosis and treatment can help to stay healthy and away from thyroid dysfunction. Let’s us all join hands in raising awareness and get early treatment.

Disclaimer:

Anzen Exports’ blog posts are based just on our research from cited websites. To be best informed, we advise consulting a doctor about an ingredient or medicine prior to taking it.

 

Sources:

1. National Today
   Website – https://nationaltoday.com/thyroid-awareness-month/
2. Research Gate
   Website – https://www.researchgate.net/publication/272659638_The_global_burden_of_thyroid_disease#:~:text=Globally%2C%20about%202%2C225%20million%20people,sequelae%20of%20disease%20%5B7%5D%20.
3. Office of Women’s Health
   Website – https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/thyroid-disease#:~:text=Your%20thyroid%20is%20a%20small,all%20parts%20of%20your%20body.
4. Office of Women’s Health
   Website – https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/graves-disease
5. Office of Women’s Health
   Website – https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/thyroid-disease#:~:text=Your%20thyroid%20is%20a%20small,all%20parts%20of%20your%20body.
6. WebMD
   Website – https://www.webmd.com/women/what-is-tsh-test#1