January Thyroid Awareness Month

January is thyroid awareness month. Because I have had thyroid issues, I am always working with my Doctor on improving my thyroid health.

About your Thyroid

Your thyroid is the small butterfly shape gland at the base of your neck. Although the thyroid is small, it is an important part of our body. Furthermore, your thyroid effects your:

Brain
Heart
Kidney
Liver
Skin
Weight

In the first place, your thyroid sets the pace on how your body operates. For example, think of your thyroid as a car. Since your vehicle needs gasoline and oil to run, your body needs fuel to produce your thyroid hormone.

Thyroid Awareness Month

Health experts have identified January as Thyroid Awareness Month. Since thyroid disease affects millions of Americans, this month is important to familiarize yourself with this disease. Thyroid disease is more common than diabetes and heart disease according to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists.

The American Thyroid Association is dedicating this month to help promote prevention, treatment and a cure for thyroid diseases. If your thyroid is not running properly, than neither are you.

Thyroid Signs

In view of thyroid issues being so prevalent in so many individuals, the following are signs that you may have an underactive thyroid.

If you’re tired after sleeping more than 8 hours or need naps during the day
Weight gain
Hormone imbalance
Muscle and joint pain
When you’re experiencing cold hands and feet regularly
Dry and cracked skin
Mind – You’re having trouble concentrating
Mood issues
Constipation
Neck swelling
Also, snoring and a hoarse voice

Thyroid Disease Treatment

Since thyroid disease is common in Women, it is important to have your thyroid checked during routine medical visits. For issues with thyroid, Doctors often use an instrument over your neck to measure any radioactivity. In addition, routine blood work is done during many routine medical Doctor visits.

If you have a nodule, tests are usually done to determine if it is cancerous. In the event that you have hyperthyroidism treatment can be:

Medication
Surgery
Radioactive iodide treatment

Also, sometimes more than one treatment is needed to treat your thyroid.

Conclusion

Most thyroid problems can be corrected by regular medicine. Additionally, you may want to consult with an Endocrinologist. In conclusion, if you have any symptoms as above, have a check-up.