Who is most likely to get thyroid disease?

Women are five to eight times more likely than men to have thyroid problems. One woman in eight will develop a thyroid disorder during her lifetime. Most thyroid cancers respond to treatment, although a small percentage can be very aggressive. The causes of thyroid problems are largely unknown.

Who is most at risk for thyroid problems?

Although anyone can develop hypothyroidism, you're at an increased risk if you: Are a woman. Have a family history of thyroid disease. Have an autoimmune disease, such as type 1 diabetes or celiac disease.

What is the main cause of thyroid problems?

Problems with the thyroid can be caused by: iodine deficiency. autoimmune diseases, in which the immune system attacks the thyroid, leading either to hyperthyroidism (caused by Graves' disease) or hypothyroidism (caused by Hashimoto's disease) inflammation (which may or may not cause pain), caused by a virus or ...

At what age do thyroid problems start?

Having too much of these hormones can cause unpleasant and potentially serious problems that may need treatment. An overactive thyroid can affect anyone, but it's about 10 times more common in women than men, and typically happens between 20 and 40 years of age.

What are early warning signs of thyroid problems?

Understanding Autoimmune Thyroid Disease

How does your body feel when you have thyroid problems?

Thyroid disorders can have a noticeable impact on your energy level and mood. Hypothyroidism tends to make people feel tired, sluggish, and depressed. Hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety, problems sleeping, restlessness, and irritability.

How long can you have thyroid problems without knowing?

Symptoms of an underactive thyroid are often similar to those of other conditions, and they usually develop slowly, so you may not notice them for years.

Can thyroid disease be cured?

All thyroid diseases can be treated, resulting in normal thyroid function. However, this frequently requires being on medication to maintain the normal thyroid state. For example, most patients with thyroid cancer can be cured through surgery and radioactive iodine treatments (see Thyroid Cancer brochure).

How do you notice thyroid problems?

Do thyroid issues come on suddenly?

An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause a wide range of symptoms, although it's unlikely you'll experience all of them. The symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly.

What foods heal your thyroid?

What foods should thyroid patients avoid?

How do you avoid thyroid problems?

Can you prevent thyroid disease?

While there are things you can do to help reduce your chances of developing thyroid disease. Ask for a thyroid collar when you get an X-ray, avoid smoking, and limit your intake of soy. You can also try to avoid potential environmental contaminants. Finally, make sure to see your primary care doctor every year.

Should I be worried about my thyroid?

Although most thyroid nodules are noncancerous and don't cause problems, ask your doctor to evaluate any unusual swelling in your neck, especially if you have trouble breathing or swallowing. It's important to evaluate the possibility of cancer.

Can hypothyroidism go away?

An underactive thyroid is a lifelong condition, so you'll usually need to take levothyroxine for the rest of your life.

When should you get your thyroid checked?

You should get your thyroid tested if you have symptoms of hypothyroidism and you're in a high-risk group (details below). Symptoms of hypothyroidism can sometimes be hard to identify, and they can occur in many other health conditions. Symptoms include: Fatigue.

Do thyroid patients live long?

We found that individuals with low–normal thyroid function live up to 3.7 years longer overall, of which up to 1.9 years longer with NCD, than individuals with high–normal thyroid function.

What organs are affected by thyroid?

Thyroid hormone affects virtually every organ system in the body, including the heart, CNS, autonomic nervous system, bone, GI, and metabolism.

What causes thyroid problems in females?

Iodine deficiency: Iodine is used by the thyroid to produce hormones. An iodine deficiency is an issue that affects several million people around the world.. A non-functioning thyroid gland: Sometimes, the thyroid gland doesn't work correctly from birth.

What happens if you ignore thyroid problems?

Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to serious complications, including heart disease and nerve damage. In rare cases, it can be fatal. Most people with hypothyroidism have to take thyroid hormone replacement long term. You will need ongoing thyroid level checks to ensure you are on the right dose.

Are thyroid issues temporary?

Some cases of thyroiditis are temporary and others cause permanent hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). It's treatable.

Are thyroid problems permanent?

The thyrotoxicosis may last for many months. After that, your thyroid may become underactive and, over time, the condition may become permanent, requiring thyroid hormone replacement. Three types of thyroiditis can cause thyrotoxicosis followed by hypothyroidism.