Thyroid Awareness Month

You've probably heard of the thyroid gland.

But if you're like many Americans, you may not know where it is or what it does. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located just above your collarbone and in front of the windpipe. Your thyroid is an important gland that produces hormones your body needs for metabolism, growth and development.

But when your thyroid does not work properly, or you suffer from thyroid disease, it can wreak havoc on your health.

Thyroid disease refers to many conditions that affect the gland's functions, and more than half of the people in America who suffer from thyroid disease are undiagnosed. The most common thyroid diseases are hyperthyroidism (overactive) and hypothyroidism (underactive). Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause a wide range of symptoms and health problems.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism can include:

• Nervousness
• Irritability
• Increased sweating
• Racing heart
• Hand tremors
• Thinning skin or brittle hair
• Muscle weakness, most often in your upper arms or thighs
• Weight loss.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:

• Feeling cold
• Fatigue
• Dry skin
• Forgetfulness
• Depression
• Constipation.

January – Thyroid Awareness Month – is an excellent time to talk to an experienced endocrinologist or otolaryngologist (ENT) about your thyroid. Thyroid awareness is key to helping people recognize the symptoms of thyroid disease. With better awareness, people will know when to talk to their doctors about testing and treatment.

If you have any concerns or questions about thyroid issues, call (985) 230-2778 to schedule an appointment with one of our providers.