Did you know that there is a gland in the body that not only helps regulate our metabolism, but also is very influential in the function of the heart, brain, liver, kidneys and our skin? That is a lot of responsibility resting on one part of our body, but the thyroid gland, located in the neck just below the voice box, does it all.
Thyroid conditions can affect the function of the heart, liver, brain, kidneys and skin.
However, more and more Americans (currently around 35-40 million) are begin diagnosed with thyroid conditions. Indeed, thyroid cancer is one of the fastest growing cancer diagnoses in the United States. Here are the other thyroid issues affecting millions in the U.S. every year:
- Hyperthyroidism- an overactive thyroid that produces too much thyroid hormone
- Hypothyroidism- an underactive thyroid that produces too little thyroid hormone
- Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis- immune and autoimmune cells damage the thyroid, leading to hypothyroidism
- Thyroid Cancer- the appearance of a painless carcinoma lump on the thyroid
- Thyroid Nodules- a small lump or lumps in or on the thyroid, sometimes cancerous but mostly benign
Because the thyroid plays such a large role in our body, Medi-Rents and Sales would like to make everyone aware of how to spot these conditions as part of Thyroid Awareness Month this month. A family history of thyroid issues is a great indicator as to if you are at risk of or suffering from a thyroid condition, as well as:
- Neck swelling or tenderness
- Daytime fatigue, even after nights of adequate, deep sleep
- Sudden feelings of depression (hypothyroidism) or anxiety (hyperthyroidism)
Once diagnosed, thyroid conditions are very treatable and can be managed effectively.
We hope that you will use this information to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy and well throughout the year. So, please join us at Medi-Rents and Sales in spreading awareness about thyroid conditions and helping yourself and others live better this year.