7 Myths About Thyroid - This Is What You Should Know

There have been studies to indicate that around 42 million people in India suffer from thyroid disorders, making it one of the most common endocrine diseases in the country, with "hypothyroidism" being the most prevalent form, affecting roughly one in ten adults in India.

This butterfly-shaped gland in the neck produces hormones that are responsible for metabolic functions in the body. The thyroid gland is a part of the endocrine system, which releases hormones into our bloodstream.

The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, which is how our body converts food into energy. It regulates heart rate, body temperature and blood pressure. It helps regulate the body’s reaction to other hormones. It assists bone cells in processing calcium and helps with our growth and development.

There are two main issues with the thyroid gland. One is hypothyroidism, which happens when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, which can cause a slowdown in bodily functions.

The second is hyperthyroidism, which happens when the thyroid gland produces too many hormones.

The thyroid gland is subject to a fair share of speculation. Here are some common myths about the thyroid gland.

Myth -If You Are Suffering From Hypothyroidism, You Cannot Lose Weight

Fact - This is one gross misconception. Losing weight is quite difficult, especially if you are in your late 30s and early 40s. During this period, the body’s metabolism slows down, and you tend to put on weight.

These challenges are quite similar for people who are undergoing thyroid treatment, as well as others who attempt to lose weight and don’t have thyroid.

Myth -If You Have a Thyroid Problem, You Must Visit an Endocrinologist

Fact - Every time you have a thyroid problem, you don’t have to go running to the endocrinologist. Some thyroid cases are quite easy to treat, which means that your primary care doctor can manage your condition.

Others might be a little complicated and require the intervention of an endocrinologist or someone specialising in hormonal systems.

Myth - Thyroid Symptoms Are Quite Obvious, so Diagnosis Is Easy

Fact - You might be suffering from thyroid disease but might not have any symptoms. Sometimes, the symptoms are subtle and overlooked easily.

Symptoms of thyroid disease are weight gain or loss, diarrhoea, constipation, fatigue, and irregular periods.

Your best bet is a thyroid panel test to identify thyroid problems before symptoms occur.

Myth - You Can’t Take Thyroid Medication if You Are Pregnant

Fact - This is one gross misconception. If thyroid disorders are not treated during pregnancy, issues like miscarriage, preeclampsia, preterm delivery and developmental issues might occur. Women must take proper and pregnancy-safe thyroid medication after consulting their doctor.

Myth - You Can Always Pinpoint a Thyroid Problem

Fact - Thyroid disease has symptoms that might be non-specific or subtle. This can make it difficult to figure out whether your symptoms are related to your thyroid.

For example, hypothyroidism might result in fatigue, dry skin, heavy menstruation, weight gain and mood changes. Hyperthyroidism can result in sleep issues, loss of weight, anxiety, and irregular menstruation.

Myth - Once Diagnosed You Can Easily Manage Thyroid Problems

Fact - It is not easy to manage thyroid problems. Treatment depends on the type and cause of the condition. Some treatments might implement medication such as antithyroid drugs, which prevent the thyroid from producing particular hormones.

Yet another option is radioiodine therapy, which ruins thyroid cells, preventing the gland from making high levels of thyroid hormone. Surgery might be required. Constant monitoring and treatment adjustments are required to manage thyroid problems effectively.

Myth - Thyroid Conditions Only Affect Women

Fact- This is a gross misconception. Not only women but men are also affected by thyroid problems. In fact, men experience thyroid issues, not more than women, though. Majorly thyroid disorders affect women much more than men.

In conclusion, while there are a lot of myths regarding thyroid disorders in India, one thing is certain - these thyroid problems aren’t going anywhere. With medication and with constant vigilance, you can trump these thyroid disorders so they don’t cause too many worries.

Does hypothyroidism result in weight gain?

Hypothyroidism can affect metabolism, but not everyone with the condition will experience significant weight gain.

Are only older adults affected by thyroid problems?

Thyroid problems can affect anyone at any age, including children and young adults.

Do thyroid problems require thyroid supplements?

Not always. While thyroid medication is often necessary for hypothyroidism, some thyroid issues, like subclinical hypothyroidism, may not require immediate medication.

Does stress directly cause thyroid disease?

Stress can potentially exacerbate thyroid issues, especially in those already predisposed to thyroid disorders, but it isn't usually the direct cause.

If you have thyroid issues, you cannot work out.

Not true! People with thyroid issues can and should exercise, though the type and intensity of the workout may depend on their thyroid function and how well their condition is managed.