Problems with the thyroid gland in women are not so uncommon. But, as a rule, without knowing the symptoms, many simply ignore them, and as a result, the disease develops. There are a number of reasons why the symptoms of the thyroid gland in women manifest and result in serious consequences. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the main symptoms and learn about treatment methods.
Thyroid structure
This organ is responsible for internal secretion and is an important part of the endocrine system. With its help, certain hormones are synthesized, which are extremely necessary in order for the body's homeostasis to be maintained within normal limits. The thyroid gland is a symmetrical organ consisting of an isthmus and two lobes. The left and right halves are adjacent to the trachea, and the isthmus is located on its front surface. The thyroid gland in women is constantly changing. But the average weight varies from 65 to 20 grams. Moreover, the size of the lobes depends on a number of factors, including gender characteristics and age. During the puberty period, it usually increases in size, and closer to old age it begins to decrease. The thyroid gland in women may be increased due to pregnancy. But after childbirth during the year, this effect subsides, and the organ comes to normal.
Body functions
The thyroid gland produces a number of specific processes associated with the synthesis of hormones containing iodine and peptides. These are thyroxine, triiodothyronine, calcitonin. These same hormones are the regulators of normal life and homeostasis of the body. They provide a number of metabolic processes in organs and tissues, carry out processes responsible for the formation of new cells and their structural differentiation, as well as for their death, which is programmed at the genetic level.
Also, these hormones are responsible for maintaining normal body temperature, energy production (caloric effect). The thyroid gland regulates the process of energy production, oxidation, assimilation of oxygen by cells, they are responsible for the production and neutralization of free radicals. Also, these hormones are responsible for mental, emotional, mental and physical development. That is why the symptoms of the thyroid gland in women can proceed unnoticed by the patient until she begins to pass the immunity. Although here, too, many begin to dismiss it, until it becomes completely ill.
Thyroid disease
In order to determine a particular disease, it will be necessary to conduct a series of studies, including instrumental, laboratory, physical methods that will allow us to evaluate the functional activity of an organ and its morphological structure.
Now more about the diseases that are visible through the diagnosis and symptoms of the thyroid gland in women. They are divided into three groups:
- Thyrotoxicosis.
- Hypothyroidism
- Nodule formation, goiter, hyperplasia and more.
In the first case, the production of hormones is enhanced. In the second, the level of substances produced is reduced. The third case may be accompanied by different indicators of hormones and a large number of other diseases.
Symptoms of the thyroid gland in women
As a rule, all the symptoms depend on what is the content of hormones in the body. If it is reduced, then the metabolism slows down significantly, the formation of heat and energy is significantly reduced. There is a feeling of constant fatigue, weakness, chilliness, swelling, memory and performance deteriorate, weight is added, dry skin, brittleness and dullness of hair appear. Menstrual irregularities occur, early menopause may occur , accompanied by severe depression.
An increase in hormones leads to the fact that metabolic processes are accelerated, a person becomes irritable, quick-tempered, appetite increases, but on the contrary, body weight decreases, heart rate increases, and the rhythm may be disturbed. Patients also have insomnia, sweating, and fever.
The problem is that in an elderly person, this symptomatology may be less pronounced. It is also difficult to diagnose thyroid problems in women during menopause, when hot flashes are felt. Many women may think that this is the onset of menopause. As a result, the disease is diagnosed quite late. Often, “goiter” is manifested in women, that is, an increase in the volume of the thyroid gland, which should normally be in the range of 9-18 ml.
Causes of Thyroid Disease
Diseases always appear for a number of reasons, which can be either single or group. But the fact is that psycho-emotional overload, inadequate and unbalanced nutrition, radiation and adverse ecology, infections, chronic diseases and taking certain drugs can cause the development of thyroid disease in any person. If you think that you have the above symptoms and are at risk, contact your endocrinologist who will examine and prescribe the right course of treatment.