The American Thyroid Association estimates that 20 million Americans are living with a thyroid dysfunction — and up to 60% may not even be aware of their condition. With potentially confusing terms (What’s the difference between hypo- and hyper-, and what exactly are nodules?) there is a lot to learn about the hormones produced by this small gland in the front of the neck. We spoke with one of 405 Magazine’s Top Docs from last year, Dr. Cassie M. Smith, for more information on about the disease.
“The key functions of thyroid hormones include metabolism regulation, growth and development, cardiovascular function, temperature regulation, brain function, mood, muscle function, reproductive function, cholesterol metabolism and hair and nail growth,” Smith said. Women are 5-8 times more likely to develop thyroid disease than men, which is contributed to by intense hormone fluctuations, especially during pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, genetics and the predisposition to develop autoimmune disorders.
Hypothyroidism is when the gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Smith reported “approximately 90-95% of hypothyroidism cases are due to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.” She noted that this is the most common condition that she treats at her clinic, Modern Endocrine in Oklahoma City. The first symptoms are usually fatigue, brain fog and weight gain, but also may include cold intolerance, dry skin, hair and nail changes, irregular menstrual cycles, depression, high blood pressure, constipation, joint pain or an enlarged thyroid gland.
Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid gland, which between 60-80% of the time is due to Graves’ Disease, especially in younger adults. Symptoms include increased metabolism, weight loss, heat intolerance, rapid heartbeat, diarrhea, tremors, hair loss and anxiety.
Both hypo- and hyperthyroidism are treated with oral medications, and Smith said she also treats with a holistic approach. “I try to find the root cause of elevated antibodies by doing gut, hormone, adrenal and insulin testing,” she said. For hyperthyroidism, treatment may also include radiation or surgical removal.
Nodules are relatively common lumps or growths within the thyroid gland. Many are benign (non-cancerous), though about 5-10% of thyroid nodules are malignant, which accounts for about 1-2% of all cancer diagnoses worldwide. Most types of thyroid cancer have a high survival rate when detected early. Cancerous nodules are more likely to be solid, grow quickly or cause additional symptoms. “Most thyroid nodules do not cause symptoms and are often discovered incidentally during routine exams or imaging tests like ultrasounds,” Smith said. “However, some nodules can cause a visible or palpable lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath or a feeling of pressure in the neck.” Treatment varies based on the nodule type and can include routine observation, radiation or surgical removal.
To prevent cancer, Smith said that “Studies show a reduction of cancer risk by 16% with optimal Vitamin D levels, between 60-100nmol/L.” Increased risk factors include genetics, radiation, smoking, obesity, iodine deficiency or excess, poor diet and autoimmune disease.
To learn more about thyroid disease visit thyroid.org.
Interested in learning more about health? Check out our story on Wellness Through the Decades.
