Do you have thyroid problems? Check here

Dubai - If left undiagnosed, hypothyroidism can also lead to depression, slow body processes and forgetfulness.

Around five per cent of the population in the UAE suffer from thyroid disease, statistics from the 10th Annual Middle East Otolaryngology Conference & Exhibition show.
However, this number is debatable as most sufferers are unaware of the problem. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland in the anterior aspect of the neck that regulates our body's metabolism, controls the body's temperature and affects how we burn calories. Complications arise when the thyroid gland is underactive or overactive.
"The symptoms of thyroid disease are vague and therefore it usually goes undiagnosed. Those with an underactive thyroid, suffer from a condition known as hypothyroidism. Symptoms such as weight gain and increased fatigue are passed off as the result of a sedentary lifestyle.
Hair fall, puffy face and dry skin are blamed on the weather and constipation is brushed off as poor diet," said Dr Ahmed Alhaj Saleh, consultant internal medicine at Medeor 24x7 Hospital, Dubai.
"Women especially, only realise they are suffering from a thyroid condition when it has progressed much further and it starts affecting their menstrual cycle and fertility. When a woman has an irregular menstrual cycle or has trouble conceiving, a doctor will also check thyroid levels as the low levels of the thyroid hormone affects the release of the egg during ovulation which can hamper fertility."
If left undiagnosed, hypothyroidism can also lead to depression, slow body processes and forgetfulness. However, Dr Ahmed advises people to consult a doctor at the early onset of symptoms in order to better manage the condition. "The common symptoms of hypothyroidism are unexplained weight gain, fatigue, intolerance to the cold, constipation, dry skin, muscle sensitivity, thinning hair and joint pain," he said.
"If you have experienced any of these symptoms, consult a doctor at the earliest who will diagnose the condition through a simple blood test and ultrasound. While there is no medication to cure hypothyroidism, the condition can be managed through medication and lifestyle changes like exercising regularly and following a healthy diet."
Hyperthyroidism
An overactive thyroid leads to a condition known as hyperthyroidism.
"Sufferers of hyperthyroidism too tend to be dismissive of their symptoms. With everyone keen to lose a few kilograms, the rapid weight-loss associated with the condition is welcomed. Most don't know the reason for this is actually an underlying health condition," said Dr Ahmed.
"The thyroid gland is responsible for the production of the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Excess production of these hormones in our body causes hyperthyroidism resulting in the acceleration of our metabolic rate, rapid heartbeat, hand tremors, excessive sweating and trouble sleeping."
While there is no spontaneous cure for hyperthyroidism it can be managed through medication or surgically if needed and lifestyle changes. Dr Mohammed Berer, medical director at Medeor 24x7 Hospital, Dubai, said: "We hope by highlighting these symptoms, people become more aware of these medical conditions."
- asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai