30 grams of health

30 grams. This is how much the thyroid gland weighs in normal condition. This metabolic regulator, which produces two hormones, is extremely important for our health. Mainly because the hormones produced by this gland are involved in regulating heart rate and body temperature, the rate of calorie burning, etc.

A normally functioning thyroid gland produces just enough hormones to keep the body functioning properly, but sometimes it can be overactive or underactive. This is where the problems begin.

Hypothyroidism. Reduced activity of the thyroid gland. Slowing metabolism. Symptoms: dry skin, hair loss, constant feeling of fatigue, muscle cramps, increased blood cholesterol. The problem with diagnosing hypothyroidism is that many of its symptoms are common to other diseases. Considering that most often problems with the thyroid gland begin in older women, it can be difficult to distinguish them from age-related changes inherent in the menopause.

In order to determine this disease, it is necessary to take several blood tests, including a test for the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone. Once hypothyroidism is diagnosed, treatment should begin. Most often, in such cases, hormonal therapy is prescribed, namely the hormone thyroxine, which compensates for the weakened functions of the thyroid gland.

Hyperthyroidism: Overactive thyroid gland. The most common manifestation of hyperthyroidism is Graves' disease. Symptoms: increased sensitivity to heat, bulging eyes, weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue, palpitations at rest.

Unlike hypothyroidism, this disease is easier to diagnose because it manifests itself not only in the patient’s physical condition, but also in his appearance. Actually, this is why women with this disease often have not only physiological, but also psychological problems.

There are three types of treatment for this disease - medicinal, radioactive iodine and surgical. The medicinal method does not always help to achieve the desired result, therefore therapy using radioactive iodine is considered more effective. If there are contraindications for using this method, then the only option is surgical – through removal of part of the thyroid gland.

Thyroid diseases in women are almost four times more common than in men, so thyroid examinations are no less important for women than visiting a gynecologist. In the early stages, the disease is easier to treat, and besides, as in the case of Graves' disease, serious problems with appearance can be avoided, because a woman always wants to remain beautiful.