January is Thyroid Awareness Month
The month of January is Thyroid Awareness Month in an effort to raise awareness of conditions that affect an estimated 30 million Americans, more than half of which remain undiagnosed. Even though the conditions are more prevalent in women, screening for thyroid problems is still an important to men’s health.
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly shaped gland located in the base of the neck. Even though it is small, this gland influences many of the important organs, such as the heart, brain, liver, kidneys, and skin. Ensuring that the thyroid gland is working as it should is very important to your well-being.
Here is what you need to know about thyroid disorders and cancers:
- Older stereotypes such as “skinny people can’t have a thyroid problem” or “thyroid problems only affect women” are outdated and this misinformation can prevent some people from getting the testing they need.
- Depending on which kind of disorder you have, you may see different symptoms. Hyperthyroidism (when the thyroid is producing too much of the thyroid hormone) may cause enlargement of the thyroid, irregular heart rhythm, and more. Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) may cause few symptoms or may cause pervasive fatigue, drowsiness, forgetfulness and more.
- It is important to have tests regularly performed to check for thyroid disease, especially if you are over 60. Fortunately, the majority of patients can be successfully treated. But you have to know about it to treat it. So get examined!
It is imperative to schedule routine full examinations. For more tips on staying healthy, contact the professionals at ProPartnersMD. We are a men’s whole health medical practice that specializes in a preventive approach. Call us at (877) 342-7709 for more information.
