A human’s thyroid gland is relatively small – just two inches long, however it produces a hormone that influences every cell, tissue and organ in the body. An estimated 20 million Americans have some form or thyroid disorder, according to the American Thyroid Association.
“But anyone – at any age, can develop thyroid problems…”
During January’s Thyroid Awareness Month, HSHS Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s hospitals want to provide education about this important part of the body, especially because up to 60% of those with thyroid disease are unaware of their condition; and the cause(s) of thyroid problems are largely unknown.
The thyroid gland is located in the middle of the lower neck. It produces a hormone that regulates the body’s metabolism, affecting critical body functions such as energy level and heart rate. Undiagnosed thyroid problems may put people at risk for conditions such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and obesity.
“The thyroid is a gland people often take for granted because it’s not talked about as much as the heart, liver and brain, for example,” says Willcutt. “But anyone – at any age, can develop thyroid problems. Even newborns are screened for congenital hypothyroidism, which means the gland isn’t producing enough thyroid hormone.”
Willcutt says women are five to eight times more likely than men to develop a thyroid condition.
Symptoms of a thyroid gland concern may include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Unexplained depression or anxiety
- Forgetfulness
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Muscle weakness
- Changes in vision
