For being such a small gland, the thyroid has a large and complicated responsibility. The thyroid’s function is to take iodine from the foods we eat and convert it to thyroid hormones. In fact, the thyroid cells are the only cells that can absorb iodine. However, every cell in our body depends on thyroid hormones for regulation of its metabolism. The main hormones that participate in this process are triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These particular hormones affect the growth and rate of function of many other systems in our body. The thyroid gland is under the care of the pituitary gland, located in the brain. When the thyroid hormones are too low, the pituitary gland produces thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) to tell the thyroid to produce more T3 and T4.
Diseases of the thyroid gland result in too much thyroid hormone (overactive or hyperthyroidism), too little thyroid hormone (underactive or hypothyroidism) or nodules/goiters. All types of thyroid disease are much more common in women than men, and many women develop thyroid issues around the time of pregnancy or shortly after delivery.
Many times thyroid disorders go unnoticed during the post-partum time frame because the symptoms of thyroid disease and experiences during post-partum are similar. Signs of hypothyroidism may include easy fatigue, poor tolerance to cold temperatures, constipation, poor appetite, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, depression or irregular menstrual periods. Hyperthyroidism can mimic other health issues, which may make it difficult for your doctor to diagnose. Signs of hyperthyroidism may include insomnia, nervousness, frequent bowel movements, feeling hot in normal or cold temperatures, weight loss and increased appetite, joint pains and eyes that seem to be enlarged.
Can thyroid disease be prevented?
The short answer is no, it can’t be prevented. In the United States, iodine deficiency is rare. In fact, it is not recommended that a person take any extra iodine beyond what is in a multivitamin. Most people with proper care from their health care provider can control their condition with no long-term side effects. However, those with undiagnosed disease may experience serious consequences. The best advice is to seek medical attention if you find you are experiencing any of the above symptoms for an unreasonable length of time.
Melanie Yunger is a local nurse practitioner, wife, mother and freelance writer.