Every year, the month of January is celebrated as Thyroid Awareness Month to raise awareness regarding the various health problems related to the thyroid gland. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck and plays a major role in the metabolism, growth, and development of the human body. It also helps in regulating several body functions by releasing hormones into the bloodstream.

If the thyroid gland doesnt function properly, you may develop several diseases, including hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Hashimotos disease, Graves disease, goiter, and thyroid cancer.

Thyroid awareness month seeks to raise awareness regarding these diseases, their causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

Stand in front of a mirror, tilt back your head, and take a sip of water

Observe the area below Adams apple for signs of bulging

Repeat the process a few times and note down the observations

If you see excessive bulging, nodules, or enlarged glands, contact your physician immediately

The only way to be sure, however, is to perform a blood test that measures your thyroid hormone levels. Usually, a physician would recommend a TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) test. Depending on the amount of hormone present in your system, the physician can then zero in on the type of thyroid disorder that you may be suffering from and prescribe appropriate treatment accordingly.

It is much more difficult to diagnose thyroid-related disorders in senior citizens because many of the symptoms associated with a malfunctioning thyroid gland overlap with the symptoms of aging. Symptoms like loss of memory, weight gain, and constipation are a few examples.

January is thyroid awareness month: All you need to know about thyroid disorders

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January is thyroid awareness month: All you need to know about thyroid disorders - India Today

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