26 May 2010
Underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can occur any time. Women are 5–8 times more likely to be affected than men. Untreated, both can lead to complications.
cancer: There are no clear–cut causes for thyroid cancer, but exposure to radiation, a diet of seafood and shellfish, and living in areas with iodine–rich soil are believed to increase risk .
tobacco: Smoking is said to decrease secretion of thyroid hormone and even block its action, aggravating hypothyroidism, especially in women.
pregnancy: Thyroid gland produces 10 to 15 per cent more thyroxine during pregnancy, raising risk of hyperthyroidism.
Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Disease
- Low body temperature
- Particularly low or high pulse
- Unusually low or high blood pressure
- Enlarged, tender, or sensitive neck or lump in neck
- Hoarse, husky or gravelly voice
- Extreme thirst or hunger
- Noticeable change in weight (gain or loss) despite no change in diet or exercise
- Feeling warm or hot when others are cold, or cold when others are warm
- Heart palpitations, flutters, skipped beats, strange patterns or rhythms
- Constipation and or diarrhoea/loose stools
- Fatigue, weakness
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