WHAT IS TROID HORMONE? WHAT ARE THE FUNCTIONS;
The thyroid gland is a small organ that secretes hormones of vital importance for our body, located just below the area of our neck called the Adam's apple.
T3 (triiodothyronine) necessary for the functioning of metabolism ) and T4 (thyroxine) hormones are secreted. These secreted hormones mix with the blood and regulate their functions by affecting vital organs such as the brain, heart, liver, kidney, stomach and intestinal system, and almost all tissues such as hair and nails. It is a kind of fuel for metabolism. Providing the necessary energy in our daily life is also important in terms of mental health as it affects the sleep pattern and emotional state.
WHAT ARE THE COMMON DISEASES OF THE TROID Gland;
There are many diseases of the thyroid gland. Although it is common in the society, most of the patients are not even aware of their disease. It is more common in women in general.
The diagnosis is made by checking the levels of T3, T4, TSH hormones in the body and, if necessary, auto antibodies (Anti TPO/Anti TG). The structure of the thyroid gland and the presence of nodules are evaluated by thyroid ultrasonography. Thyroid scintigraphy or, if necessary, needle biopsy can be used for detailed examination of the nodules.
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Diffuse goiter (enlargement in the thyroid gland, hormones may be normal)
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Hypothyroidism ( Slow functioning of the thyroid gland, eg: Hashimoto's Thyroiditis )
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Hyperthyroidism (Fast functioning of the thyroid gland, eg: Graves' Disease)
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Nodular goiter (Swellings that develop within the thyroid gland, can be benign or malignant. Thyroid hormones may be normal or impaired)
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Acute thyroiditis (Painful infection of the thyroid gland, usually heals without sequelae. )
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
Symptoms vary depending on the current disease
In case of hypothyroidism; since metabolism will slow down, weakness, fatigue, drowsiness, feeling cold, weight gain, constipation, hair loss, breakage in nails, depression, high cholesterol and blood pressure, dryness of the skin, deepening of the voice, severe hypothyroidism on the hands, on the eyelids on the face, on the tongue and swelling of the feet, heart failure may be seen.
In case of hyperthyroidism; palpitations, heart rhythm disorders, excessive sweating, trembling in the hands, diarrhea, vivid eyes, extreme nervousness, insomnia, hair loss, weight loss may occur.
In case of nodule or goiter; swelling in the neck, a feeling of getting stuck when swallowing, difficulty in swallowing, a feeling of tickling may occur.
WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS?
Thyroid diseases are more common in regions with risk for iodine deficiency, such as Turkey. Although it is more common in women, the presence of the disease may be more risky in men. It is observed more frequently in those with a family history of thyroid disease, radiation exposure, environmental factors, unhealthy diet and intestinal health.
In cases where thyroid disease is suspected, patients should be evaluated by an Internal Medicine Specialist or Endochronology Specialist and their treatment should be arranged after the necessary further examinations. Thyroid replacement therapy, antithyroid therapy, surgery or radioactive iodine therapy can be planned according to the current situation.
WHAT SHOULD TROID PATIENTS CONSIDER IN NUTRITION?
Hypothyroidic patients (eg Hashimoto) should first take care to get enough iodine. Seafood, turkey meat. Red meat, walnuts, flax seeds, dill, coconut, lentils, whole grain products, pumpkin seeds are good.
Some foods are called goitrogenic and it is recommended that patients with hypothyroidism (Hashimato) consume cautiously (cabbage, cauliflower, cruciferous vegetables, broccoli, turnip, soy)
Non-iodized salt should be used in hyperthyroidism (eg Graves), and iodine consumption should be avoided. In addition, consumption of seafood, milk, radish, purple cabbage, and nuts should be reduced.
Selenium and zinc are auxiliary minerals necessary for the transformation and normal functioning of thyroid hormones, and in their deficiency, T3, T4 are normal, even if their effectiveness is normal. Foods such as walnuts, almonds, shellfish, fish, meat, vegetables and fruits, whole wheat flour, egg yolk, milk and dairy products, potatoes can be consumed.
Vitamins B 12 and B 9 have also been shown to have an important role in thyroid energy metabolism. Its deficiency must be corrected.
Consumption of caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes should be reduced.
TO A HEALTHIER LIFE…
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