Has there been a sudden unexplained weight gain or loss? Do you feel lethargic, anxious or suffer from frequent mood swings? Do not blame it purely on stress, as it could have been triggered due to abnormal levels of thyroid hormone. It is estimated that every 10th adult
in India suffers from thyroid malfunction. Thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front portion of the neck, and is responsible for regulating body’s metabolism. When thyroid gland does not function properly — under or over produces hormones, it can drastically affect your health; particularly your weight, energy levels and mood. According to health experts, more than 50% adults, mostly women, remain undiagnosed till late stages. Low awareness about the symptoms, not only among people but even doctors, is a contributing factor.
“Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland) has increased nearly four-five fold among women in the 20-40 age group,” said Dr SK Wangnoo, senior consultant endocrinologist and diabetologist, Indraprastha Apollo’s Centre for Obesity, Diabetes and Endocrinology.
In fact, thyroid associated with pregnancy, dyslipidemia (abnormal amount of cholesterol and/or fat in the blood) and depression constitutes a major chunk of the total number of cases, as these trigger hormonal imbalances in the body. During pregnancy, the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth and placental abnormalities increase if the woman suffers from hypothyroidism. Addressing the need for early screening and management of thyroid dysfunction, the Indian Thyroid Society recently launched three guidelines.
The guidelines recommend screening for hypothyroidism in pregnant women at the first antenatal visit by measuring TSH levels. However, thyroid dysfunction by itself is not an indication for termination of pregnancy. In case overt hypothyroidism is diagnosed then medicines to normalize thyroid function must be started soon.
Thyroid may swing your mood
