The thyroid, a little gland in the front of the neck that resembles a butterfly, is essential for producing hormones that support healthy bodily functions. Hypothyroidism is the term for when the thyroid gland in your body produces very little thyroid. You can have an underactive thyroid if you are overweight, fatigued all the time, and unable to withstand cold weather. Conversely, hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the body produces an excess of thyroid hormone, is characterised by weight loss, anxiety, insomnia, irregular menstruation, and heat sensitivity. Dr. Mahesh D.M., Consultant, Endocrinology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore debunks some popular myths around Thyroid:
Myth: All those with thyroid disorder develop goiter
Fact: While both are linked to the thyroid, goiter and nodules differ. Thyroid nodules are lumps within the gland, while goiter is a visible neck swelling due to an enlarged gland, sometimes caused by nodules. Though associated with thyroid issues, goiter isn’t certain. Many with thyroid problems never experience it, making it a misleading symptom. However, goiter can be a sign of a thyroid condition, but its absence doesn’t rule it out. Regular checkups remain key for optimal thyroid health, regardless of visible neck changes.
Myth: If you become fat, you will develop a thyroid disorder
Fact: Though there might be a link between obesity and certain thyroid conditions, it cannot be generalized. Many other factors like insulin resistance, genetics, family history, lifestyle, and environmental exposures do play a crucial role and contribute to thyroid health. The majority of people with obesity don’t have any thyroid condition. However, some studies suggest people with obesity have aslightly higher risk of developing hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland underproduces hormones. Obesity can worsen the symptoms of pre-existing thyroid problems like hypothyroidism. Focusing on overall health while monitoring weight is crucial. Weight is an important factor, but can’t be generalized. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management) plays a crucial role.
Myth: If you have a thyroid disorder, you should have medications for a lifetime
Fact: The need for lifelong thyroid medication is subject to the specific condition, its severity, and individual response to treatment. Hypothyroidism is one of the most common causes of thyroid dysfunction, where the gland produces insufficient hormones. require lifelong medication. However, with regards to hyperthyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone, depending on the severity, antithyroid medications are recommended to control hormone production for a year or two and lifelong medication might not be needed.
Myth: Delay in treating thyroid issues, will lead to cancer
Fact: Delaying thyroid treatment in most conditions including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, doesn’t directly increase the risk of thyroid cancer, it can have serious health consequences due to the underlying condition itself. Additionally, in rare cases, it could delay the diagnosis and treatment of pre-existing cancer. However, untreated thyroid conditions may lead to health issues like fatigue weight gain/loss, depression, and heart failure in severe cases, but not directly related to cancer.
Myth: ?Women with thyroid issues can never be pregnant
Fact: Yes, both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect fertility. It might require treatment before conception to optimize chances of success. With appropriate medical guidance and management, women with thyroid conditions can conceive and deliver healthy babies.
Myth: People with thyroid issues should never consume many vegetables
Fact: It’s a myth that all vegetables are off-limits for thyroid patients, but one does need to be mindful of goitrogens found in some cruciferous veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. These can affect iodine uptake, but only in specific cases like severe iodine deficiency or uncontrolled hypothyroidism. For most, a balanced diet including vegetables remains crucial for optimal health.
Myth: You should add more salt loaded with iodine to keep thyroid issues at bay
Fact: It’s not recommended to add excessive amounts of salt to your diet, even if it’s loaded with iodine. Instead, you can consume a balanced diet that includes natural sources of iodine such as fish, dairy products, and eggs, to maintain a healthy thyroid.
