A closer look at women and thyroid disease

One in eight women will develop thyroid disease during her lifetime. It’s important to know the signs and when it’s time to see a professional.

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that wraps around the base of the throat. It is responsible for creating and regulating hormones that control a variety of functions, including heart rate, breathing and metabolism.

If the thyroid begins under- or overproducing hormones, it can cause a variety of health problems known as thyroid disorders, with hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism being the two most common. Hyperthyroidism occurs when too much of the thyroid hormone is produced, and hypothyroidism is diagnosed when not enough thyroid hormone is created.

Who is at risk?

Women who have had previous thyroid problems, undergone radiation therapy near the throat or have closely related family members with thyroid disease are all more likely to develop thyroid issues.

Certain medical conditions, such as Type 1 diabetes and anemia, also may increase a woman’s likelihood of developing a thyroid disorder.

Understanding hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is much more common than hyperthyroidism. Hallmark signs of hypothyroidism include weight gain, joint pain, dry skin, slow heart rate, irregular menstrual cycles, trouble becoming pregnant, thinning hair, intolerance of cold temperatures and fatigue.

If your symptoms align with hypothyroidism, doctors can order blood work to reveal your thyroid hormone levels and recommend treatment based on the cause of the problem.

Understanding hyperthyroidism

Excessive thyroid hormones circulating in a woman’s system can cause mood swings, unexplained weight loss, fast or irregular heartbeat, excessive sweating, hand tremors, fatigue, irritability and digestive tract issues.

Hyperthyroidism treatments include medications such as beta blockers, therapies that destroy the cells creating excess thyroid hormones and surgical removal of the thyroid gland. Removing the thyroid requires a daily thyroid hormone supplement to keep levels stable.

Doctors can help determine the most appropriate option for relief based on the cause of thyroid disease and its responsiveness to care. The first step is discussing your concerns with your primary care provider to begin the process of discovering and treating this condition.

Should you be screened for thyroid disease?

While there is no rule about when to screen for thyroid disease, individuals who exhibit symptoms that may be caused by thyroid dysfunction or belong to certain high-risk groups may be screened periodically to stay on top of developments.

Routine screening of thyroid levels are appropriate for individuals who are on thyroid hormone replacement therapy. It also may help identify the disease early in women who are at high risk because they are pregnant or older than age 60.

Your doctor can help you decide when and if screening for a thyroid disorder is appropriate.