(Author: Dr. Avinash Phadke, President & Mentor, Agilus Diagnostics)Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism , hyperthyroidism , thyroid nodules , and thyroid cancer , are increasingly prevalent in India, affecting around 42 million people.
The rise in thyroid cancer, particularly papillary thyroid cancer, which is generally more treatable than other types, adds to the public health challenge, underscoring the need for increased awareness and early detection efforts.Diagnosis of thyroid disorders involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests.
Hypothyroidism is treated with synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine, which normalizes hormone levels and alleviates symptoms.
In cases of large goiters, nodules, or cancer, thyroidectomy, the surgical removal of the thyroid gland, may be necessary.Addressing thyroid disorders in India requires comprehensive public health strategies.
Ongoing research is needed to better understand the epidemiology of thyroid disorders in India, improve diagnostic tools, and develop more effective treatments.
Diagnosis
Can thyroid issues affect your eyes?
(Author: Dr. Avinash Phadke, President & Mentor, Agilus Diagnostics)
Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism , hyperthyroidism , thyroid nodules , and thyroid cancer , are increasingly prevalent in India, affecting around 42 million people. Several factors contribute to this high incidence, including iodine deficiency despite widespread iodized salt use, genetic predispositions, autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease , environmental toxins, and lifestyle factors like stress and poor diet.Hypothyroidism, characterized by insufficient thyroid hormone production, is especially common in women, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and depression. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism involves excessive hormone production, often due to Graves' disease, causing symptoms like weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and irritability. The rise in thyroid cancer, particularly papillary thyroid cancer, which is generally more treatable than other types, adds to the public health challenge, underscoring the need for increased awareness and early detection efforts.Diagnosis of thyroid disorders involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Blood tests measuring thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (T4) levels are crucial, with elevated TSH indicating hypothyroidism and decreased TSH suggesting hyperthyroidism. Imaging tests like ultrasound help detect nodules and structural abnormalities and fine-needle aspiration biopsies assess the nature of these nodules, distinguishing between benign and malignant growths.Early and accurate diagnosis is vital for effective management, which typically includes medication, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery. Hypothyroidism is treated with synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine, which normalizes hormone levels and alleviates symptoms. Hyperthyroidism management may involve anti-thyroid drugs to reduce hormone production, beta-blockers to manage symptoms like rapid heartbeat, and radioactive iodine therapy to shrink the thyroid gland. In cases of large goiters, nodules, or cancer, thyroidectomy, the surgical removal of the thyroid gland, may be necessary.Addressing thyroid disorders in India requires comprehensive public health strategies. Awareness programs to educate the public about symptoms and risks, along with routine screening in high-risk populations, are essential for early detection and treatment. Ensuring adequate iodine intake through fortification programs remains a priority, particularly in regions where iodine deficiency persists. Additionally, lifestyle interventions promoting a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like selenium and zinc, regular physical activity, and stress management can support thyroid health. Ongoing research is needed to better understand the epidemiology of thyroid disorders in India, improve diagnostic tools, and develop more effective treatments. Through coordinated efforts in public health, healthcare delivery, and patient education, the burden of thyroid disorders can be significantly reduced, improving the quality of life for millions of affected individuals.Patients with thyroid disorders require ongoing monitoring to adjust treatment as needed and to detect any changes in thyroid function.For patients with hypothyroidism, regular monitoring helps ensure that the dosage of synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine is appropriate. Over- or under-treatment can lead to symptoms persisting or new complications arising, such as heart problems or osteoporosis. Typically, patients are advised to undergo TSH testing every 6-12 months once their condition is stable. However, more frequent testing may be necessary during the initial treatment phase or if symptoms change.In cases of hyperthyroidism, monitoring is essential to avoid potential complications like heart disease, bone loss, and thyrotoxic crisis. Patients taking anti-thyroid medications or undergoing radioactive iodine therapy need regular blood tests to check their response to treatment. Additionally, healthcare providers may perform periodic ultrasounds or scans to assess the size and activity of the thyroid gland, particularly if nodules are present. Regular follow-up appointments also allow healthcare providers to detect and manage any adverse effects of treatment promptly.Thyroid cancer patients require close monitoring even after treatment, as recurrence is possible. Follow-up care usually includes regular physical exams, blood tests for thyroglobulin (a marker for thyroid cancer recurrence), and imaging tests such as ultrasounds or radioactive iodine scans. By maintaining a schedule of regular monitoring, healthcare providers can detect any changes early and adjust treatment plans accordingly, ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life for patients with thyroid disorders.
