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Thyroid Health – Do You Know What Thyroid Disease Looks Like?
The American Thyroid Association (ATA) documents how an average of 20 million Americans will develop some form of thyroid condition. That’s no small number! If left untreated, thyroid disease can affect cardiovascular wellbeing, pregnancy, and bone health. There are two thyroid conditions – Hyper and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism leads to excess production of T3 and T4 thyroid hormones, whereas hypothyroidism results in underproduction of hormones. Understanding thyroid health is essential for disease control and prevention. Do you know the signs and symptoms of thyroid disease?
What Hyperthyroidism Looks Like
The Mayo Clinic highlights common signs and symptoms experienced in clients with hyperthyroidism:
1. Sudden weight loss
2. Rapid heart weight
3. Increased appetite
4. Sweating and sensitivity to heat
5. Nervousness
6. Difficulty sleeping
7. May have enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
What Hypothyroidism Looks Like
The Mayo Clinic highlights common signs and symptoms experienced in clients with hypothyroidism:
1. Fatigue
2. Sensitivity to cold
3. Puffy face and weight gain
4. Muscle weakness
5. Depression
6. Thinning of hair
7. Impaired memory
If left untreated, symptoms of thyroid disease often become more frequent and severe. According to the Mayo Clinic advanced hypothyroidism is rare, yet can be life threatening. When diagnosing thyroid disease, hyperthyroidism is more challenging as it presents symptoms similar to other health conditions. Health assessments and diagnostics aid in determining thyroid conditions. Be sure to consult your physician if you’re experiencing symptoms of thyroid disease. Also, having a list of current medications, signs and symptoms, and questions provide valuable information for your health practitioner. Staying informed and understanding thyroid health is essential for disease control and prevention.
* All information shared in this article should be discussed with your healthcare practitioner prior to incorporating any suggestions. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide advice or direct client decisions.
Yeneilyn is a Registered Nurse in the state of Florida since 2006. Her nursing practice began in the field of Cardiology at Mount Sinai Medical Hospital and expanded to care for clients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). She was provided the opportunity as LPN Instructor, which changed the course of her nursing career. She states, “Teaching nursing students expanded my view on positive influences nurses contribute beyond beside care. Nurses are central leaders in health education, client advocacy, and disease prevention.” Currently, Yeneilyn writes health articles and prepares Continuing Education (C.E.) courses for healthcare professionals. She continues her studies in the field of Nursing Education and evidenced-based nursing practice. In her free time she enjoys sharing time with family and friends.
For questions or topics of interest contact Nurse Yenny at: nurseyenny@gmail.com