Imagine a tiny, butterfly shaped gland quietly working around the clock to keep your body in balance. You don’t see it, feel it or even think about it until something starts to feel “off.” That’s your thyroid.
For many, the thyroid remains overlooked until its imbalance begins to affect everyday life. This Thyroid Awareness season, let’s bring attention to this small yet powerful gland & highlight the importance of regular check-ups for better health.
Understanding Your Thyroid Health: Small Gland, Big Impact
Situated at the base of your neck, the thyroid is an important part of the endocrine system. It produces hormones (T3 & T4) that help control your metabolism, energy levels, body temperature, heart rate and even your mood.
If your thyroid isn’t functioning as it should, your entire body can feel off balance. These hormones help regulate:
• Metabolism: how your body processes and uses energy
• Heart rate: the rhythm and speed of your heartbeat
• Energy levels: how alert or tired you feel
• Body temperature: keeping you warm or cool as needed
• Mood & mental clarity: affecting your emotions, focus and memory
In essence, the thyroid acts like a control center for your body’s internal balance. When it’s functioning properly, everything works in harmony. When it’s not, you may notice changes in how you feel, both physically and mentally.
Symptoms of Thyroid Imbalance
When the thyroid doesn’t function properly – either producing too much hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism), it can lead to a wide range of symptoms. These imbalances can affect your entire body & how you feel day to day. These symptoms include:
• Constant tiredness
• Irregular periods
• Sudden weight gain or loss
• Sensitivity to cold or heat
• Hair thinning or dry skin
• Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
Who’s Most at Risk?
While thyroid problems can affect anyone, some groups are more likely to develop them: • Women (especially over age 35)
• Pregnant & postpartum women
• Those with autoimmune disorders
• People with a family history of thyroid disease
• Individuals with weight issues, persistent fatigue, or mood changes
If you fall into one of these groups, getting checked regularly is essential.
Common Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid conditions are quite widespread and can impact various aspects of your health. Here are some of the most common disorders:
1. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Occurs when the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones.
• Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold sensitivity & sluggish metabolism. • Often caused by an autoimmune condition like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
2. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
• Happens when the thyroid produces too much hormone.
• Signs include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, nervousness & heat intolerance. • Frequently linked to Graves’ disease.
3. Goiter
• An enlarged thyroid gland, visible as swelling in the neck.
• May result from iodine deficiency or thyroid dysfunction.
4. Thyroid Nodules
• Small lumps that form within the thyroid.
• Most are benign, but some may affect hormone levels or be cancerous. 5.
5. Thyroid Cancer
• A less common but treatable condition.
• Often appears as a painless lump in the neck & is typically diagnosed through imaging or biopsy.
Early detection and treatment are key to managing thyroid disorders and maintaining overall well-being.
What Causes Thyroid Problems?
• Autoimmune diseases
• Iodine deficiency or excess
• Genetic predisposition
• Surgery or trauma
• Hormonal changes
• Radiation exposure
• Certain medications or treatments
How is thyroid disease diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will begin by asking about your symptoms and medical history, followed by a physical examination. During the exam, they will gently feel your thyroid gland to check for enlargement or any noticeable nodules.
To confirm a diagnosis, your provider will order specific thyroid tests, such as:
Blood tests: These helps determine if you have hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Common tests include thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), T3, T4, and thyroid antibody tests.
Imaging tests: A thyroid ultrasound can detect nodules or an enlarged thyroid (goiter). Nuclear medicine scans, like a thyroid uptake test, can identify if any nodules are producing excess hormone.
Comprehensive Thyroid Care at Lourdes Hospital: Your Health in Expert Hands
At Lourdes Hospital, Kochi, we are committed to providing expert care for all types of thyroid disorders through our specialized Centre for Endocrinology & Diabetes. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter or thyroid nodules, our team is here to help with a thorough and compassionate approach.
We begin with detailed evaluations using advanced diagnostic tools such as thyroid hormone blood tests (TSH, T3, T4), ultrasound scans and fine-needle biopsies to ensure accurate and early detection. Based on the diagnosis, we offer personalized treatment plans that may include medication, lifestyle modifications, regular monitoring, or surgical intervention when necessary. Our multidisciplinary team works together to ensure each patient receives holistic, high-quality care tailored to their unique needs.
Simple Habits for a Healthier Thyroid
While thyroid issues can’t always be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help support your thyroid and overall hormonal balance. Here are a few practical steps you can take:
• Include iodine rich foods in your diet, such as seafood, dairy products & iodized salt— but be careful not to overdo it.
• Eat foods high in selenium and zinc, like Brazil nuts, eggs & sunflower seeds. • Stay active with regular physical exercise.
• Avoid smoking, which can negatively impact thyroid function.
• Get regular health check-ups, especially if thyroid issues run in your family. • Manage stress effectively, as it can trigger or worsen autoimmune thyroid conditions.
These small lifestyle changes can go a long way in supporting your thyroid health.
Your Thyroid Might Be Small — But It Matters More Than You Think
This tiny gland has a huge impact on your overall well-being, affecting your energy, mood, metabolism & more. When it is out of balance, your whole system can feel off.
Staying alert to symptoms and getting regular checkups can help catch issues early before they disrupt your life. If you’re feeling unusually tired, anxious, gaining or losing weight unexpectedly, or just not feeling like yourself, it might be time to get your thyroid checked.
Don’t ignore the signs. A simple test can lead to early treatment & help you feel like yourself again. Your health starts with awareness, take that first step today.
