• Published on: May 26, 2022
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Thyroid Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors, Testing

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There are a number of causes for thyroid disease, including autoimmune diseases, radiation exposure, and iodine deficiency. Some risk factors include having a family history of thyroid disease, being female (thyroid disease is more common in women), and being over the age of 60. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of thyroid disease but may include weight gain or loss, fatigue, hair loss, constipation, and muscle weakness.

Thyroid function can be tested through a blood test that measures levels of TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). If TSH levels are high it suggests that the thyroid is not working properly and further testing may be necessary to diagnose the specific type of thyroid disease.

Thyroid disease is a condition that affects the thyroid gland, which is located in the front of your neck. The thyroid gland produces hormones that help control your body's metabolism. There are several different types of thyroid diseases, including hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, goiter, and thyroid cancer.

Some common causes of thyroid disease include autoimmune diseases (such as Hashimoto's disease), radiation therapy to the head or neck, medications that contain iodine (such as amiodarone and lithium), and surgery to remove the thyroid gland.

There are many causes of thyroid disease, including autoimmune diseases, infection, radiation therapy, and thyroid nodules. The most common cause is autoimmune disease, which occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. Symptoms of thyroid disease vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain or loss, hair loss, constipation, and difficulty swallowing.

Risk factors for thyroid disease include family history of thyroid disease, previous neck surgery or radiation therapy to the head or neck area, and diabetes. Thyroid function can be tested with a blood test called a TSH level. This test measures the level of TSH in your bloodstream.  There are a few different things that can cause thyroid disease, including autoimmune diseases, radiation exposure, and iodine deficiency. Some of the symptoms of thyroid disease include weight gain or loss, fatigue, hair loss, and changes in mood.

Some of the risk factors for thyroid disease include being female, being overweight or obese, having a family history of thyroid disease, and being over the age of 60. Thyroid disease is often diagnosed with a blood test that measures levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood.

There are a number of different things that can cause thyroid problems. Here are some of the most common ones:

Autoimmune diseases (Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common type)

Radiation therapy to the head or neck

Iodine deficiency

Graves' disease (an autoimmune disease that causes an overactive thyroid)

Thyroid nodules or lumps (these can be caused by a number of different things, including iodine deficiency, radiation therapy, and autoimmune diseases)

 goiter (an enlarged thyroid gland)

The most common symptoms of thyroid problems are changes in weight, changes in appetite, fatigue, mood changes, muscle weakness, and hair loss. Thyroid disease is a disorder that affects the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located in the front of your neck. It produces hormones that help regulate your body's metabolism.

There are several causes of thyroid disease, including autoimmune diseases, radiation therapy, and surgery. Symptoms include weight gain or loss, fatigue, hair loss, and changes in mood. Risk factors for thyroid disease include a family history of the disorder and having other autoimmune diseases. Testing for thyroid disease includes a blood test to measure levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4).

The most common cause is an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Other causes of thyroid disease include: radiation therapy to the head or neck, iodine deficiency, pregnancy, and surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland. Some other common symptoms of thyroid disease include fatigue, weight gain or loss, hair loss, mood swings, and constipation.

There are several risk factors for thyroid disease, including age (it's more common in women than men), family history, BMI (body mass index), and smoking. Thyroid function can be assessed with a blood test that measures levels of TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone).

Thyroid disease is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone. This can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, and changes in heart rate.

There are several different things that can cause thyroid disease, including autoimmune diseases, radiation therapy, and iodine deficiency. And some risk factors for thyroid disease include being female and being over the age of 60. Thyroid disease is usually diagnosed with a blood test that measures the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood. Treatment for thyroid disease usually involves taking medication to replace the missing thyroid hormone.

Thyroid disease is a condition that affects the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located in the front of your neck and produces hormones that help control your body's metabolism. There are several different types of thyroid disease, including hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, goiter, and thyroid cancer. Each type of thyroid disease has its own unique set of symptoms and causes.

Some common risk factors for thyroid disease include being female, being over 60 years old, having a family history of thyroid disease, and being exposed to radiation. There are a few different things that can cause thyroid problems, including autoimmune diseases, radiation therapy, and certain medications. Some of the symptoms of thyroid disease include weight gain or loss, fatigue, hair loss, and changes in mood.

The main risk factors for thyroid disease are a family history of the condition and autoimmune diseases. Anyone who experiences any of the symptoms listed above should visit their doctor for testing.

The most common symptom of a thyroid problem is an abnormal change in body weight. This can manifest as either a sudden weight gain or a sudden weight loss, and is often accompanied by one or more of the following symptoms: fatigue, anxiety, irritability, depressed mood, menstrual irregularities, dry skin and hair, thinning hair, constipation Moreover, many people with thyroid problems also report feeling cold all the time, even when others around them are not. Joint and muscle pain is also common in those with thyroid problems. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with your doctor to determine if you may have a thyroid problem.

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10 Early Signs of Cancer Most Indians Ignore

10 Early Signs of Cancer Most Indians Ignore

Cancer is a growing concern in India, with cases rising due to lifestyle changes, genetic factors, and environmental triggers. Early detection plays a crucial role in successful treatment and recovery. Unfortunately, many people tend to overlook early signs of cancer, mistaking them for minor health issues. In this article, we will discuss 10 early signs of cancer that most Indians ignore, how to detect them early, and essential cancer prevention tips.

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you are losing weight without any changes in diet or exercise, it could be a warning sign of cancer. Cancers of the stomach, pancreas, esophagus, and lungs can cause sudden weight loss. If you experience unexplained weight loss of more than 5 kg, consult a doctor immediately.

2. Persistent Fatigue

Feeling excessively tired despite getting enough rest may indicate an underlying health issue, including cancer. Leukemia, colon, and stomach cancers are often linked to extreme fatigue. If fatigue persists without an identifiable reason, it is advisable to get a medical evaluation.

3. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits

Frequent diarrhea, constipation, or blood in the stool may signal colorectal cancer, while changes in urination patterns may indicate bladder or prostate cancer. If you notice prolonged changes in your bowel or bladder habits, seek medical attention.

4. Non-Healing Sores

A sore that does not heal within a few weeks could be a sign of oral cancer or skin cancer. Smokers and tobacco users should be especially vigilant about mouth ulcers, as they are at higher risk of developing signs of oral cancer.

5. Persistent Cough or Hoarseness

A cough lasting more than three weeks, especially if accompanied by blood, could be a symptom of lung cancer. Hoarseness that persists might be linked to throat or thyroid cancer. How to detect cancer early in such cases involves consulting a specialist if respiratory symptoms do not improve.

6. Lumps or Thickening of Tissue

The presence of lumps in the breast, testicles, or other parts of the body should not be ignored. Common cancer types in India, such as breast and testicular cancer, often present as painless lumps in their early stages. Early medical evaluation can prevent progression.

7. Difficulty Swallowing

Persistent difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, could be an early symptom of throat, esophageal, or stomach cancer. If swallowing problems continue despite dietary adjustments, a medical examination is necessary.

8. Unexplained Bleeding

Unusual bleeding, such as blood in urine, stool, or coughing up blood, is a serious warning sign of cancer. Cervical and endometrial cancers may cause abnormal vaginal bleeding. It is crucial to get tested if such symptoms occur.

9. Skin Changes

Skin abnormalities, such as dark patches, changes in moles, or persistent itching, can be indicators of skin cancer. If a mole grows, changes color, or starts bleeding, it is important to consult a dermatologist immediately.

10. Persistent Pain

Pain that does not go away, especially in the bones or back, can sometimes be an early sign of cancer. While pain alone is not definitive, unexplained or long-lasting pain should be evaluated by a medical professional.

How to Detect Cancer Early

Early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. Here are some tips to catch cancer in its initial stages:

  • Regular Health Check-ups: Routine screenings, such as mammograms, Pap smears, and colonoscopies, help in detecting cancer before symptoms appear.

  • Self-Examinations: Checking for lumps, unusual moles, or changes in bodily functions can help identify potential issues early.

  • Knowing Family History: If there is a family history of cancer, it is advisable to go for genetic counseling and regular screenings.

  • Seeking Medical Attention Promptly: Do not ignore persistent symptoms. Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment.

Cancer Prevention Tips

While cancer cannot always be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk. Here are some essential cancer prevention tips:

  • Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use: Tobacco consumption is one of the leading causes of signs of oral cancer and lung cancer in India. Avoiding tobacco can drastically reduce your risk.

  • Eat a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports overall health and lowers cancer risk.

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases the risk of several cancers, including breast and colorectal cancer. Regular exercise is key to maintaining a healthy weight.

  • Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake has been linked to liver, breast, and digestive tract cancers. Limiting alcohol can help reduce cancer risk.

  • Protect Yourself from the Sun: Skin cancer can be prevented by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure.

  • Get Vaccinated: Vaccinations against Hepatitis B and HPV can prevent liver and cervical cancer, respectively.

  • Avoid Exposure to Carcinogens: Limit exposure to harmful chemicals, such as asbestos and radiation, that are known to cause cancer.

Conclusion

Awareness is the first step toward preventing and detecting cancer early. Ignoring early signs can lead to late-stage diagnosis and reduced treatment success. By understanding these early signs of cancer, following cancer prevention tips, and undergoing regular screenings, individuals can significantly lower their risk. If you experience any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. How to detect cancer early is crucial knowledge that can save lives.

By staying informed and proactive, we can fight the rising incidence of common cancer types in India and ensure better health outcomes for all.

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