Thyroid Awareness Month

Thyroid Awareness Month

Every year, January is observed as Thyroid Awareness Month. This month helps people understand the thyroid gland and its importance for our health. There are many people who have thyroid problems but do not know about them. Hence, by spreading the right awareness, we can help notice the signs at an early stage. The size of the thyroid may be small, but without a doubt, it plays a prominent role in keeping our body active and healthy. In this blog, we will further unveil all the essential information regarding the thyroid.

What Is the Thyroid Gland?

The thyroid gland is small presented in the butterfly shaped gland. It is located just below the throat. Even though it is small in size, it plays a key role in our body. This gland makes hormones that can travel through the blood and tell different parts of the body how fast or slow to work.

Why Is the Thyroid Important?

As the thyroid is one of the important glands of our body, it helps in controlling how our body grows, brain works, heart beats, energy usage, and feeling of warmth and cold. Since it controls so many things, the thyroid is also known as the body’s speed controller. We feel active and healthy when it works properly.

What Happens When the Thyroid Does Not Work Properly?

The thyroid sometimes does not make the accurate amount of hormones. When this happens, it can cause serious health problems. The thyroid consists of two types;

Hypothyroidism: When the Body Becomes Slow

Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid does not make enough hormones, resulting in the body becoming slow. People who suffer from this condition may feel tired, gain weight, feel cold, and have dry skin or hair. This condition in children may cause slow growth or trouble concentrating.

Hyperthyroidism: When the Body Becomes Too Fast

Hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid gland makes too many hormones. People with Hyperthyroidism may feel nervous, lose weight, have a fast heartbeat, have sleeping issues, and feel hot and sweaty. If you notice these symptoms, then asap a doctor should be consulted.

Why Do Thyroid Problems Happen?

One of the common reasons that can cause thyroid problems is a lack of iodine. Iodine is a very important mineral needed by the thyroid to make hormones. Foods such as milk, salt, eggs, and fish are good sources of iodine. Sometimes the immune system of the body attacks the thyroid gland by mistake. This is not caused by germs and does not spread from one person to another. Further, other reasons that can affect thyroid health are stress, poor diet, and genetics.

How Are Thyroid Problems Found?

Thyroid problems can be found with a simple blood test. Through this test. Doctors check the level of thyroid hormones in the body. If the problem is detected, medicines are prescribed by the doctors to balance the hormone levels. With proper treatment and care, patients can feel better.

Can Children Have Thyroid Problems?

Yes, children can also suffer from thyroid problems. But if the problem is found at an early stage, higher chances that children can grow and learn just like other children. The signs are extreme tiredness, mood swings, sudden weight changes, and poor concentration. If you notice any of these signs in your children, consulting with a doctor is a must.

How Can We Keep Our Thyroid Healthy?

In order to keep our thyroid well, we need to incorporate a healthy lifestyle. For this, eat balanced food, drink enough water, consume iodized salt, get enough sleep, manage stress, and do exercises daily. Adding these to your lifestyle can help in keeping your thyroid healthy.

Why Thyroid Awareness Month Matters

January is the month dedicated to thyroid awareness. This month tells us that we must be attentive to what our bodies communicate. It is not normal and should not be ignored if one feels tired or ill all the time, so the case should be checked soon. Thyroid issues are not a sign of weakness; rather, they are medical conditions that can be cured. With proper care and knowledge at the right time, people suffering from thyroid disorders can live a healthy life.

Conclusion

The thyroid gland might be small, but it takes charge of a lot. The thyroid health awareness can be the key to both our and others' health. It is a cycle where awareness leads to early care, and eventually, a better life.