Thyroid disease: Frequently asked questions about thyroids

Thyroid symptoms can vary depending on the cause and severity of the disease. In some people, symptoms may be mild and go unnoticed.

ARE THYROID GLAND DISEASES RELATED TO WEIGHT GAIN?

Significant weight gain can occur in a condition called hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is underactive. If circulating thyroid hormone (free T4) is insufficient and TSH levels are high due to autoimmune lymphocytic thyroiditis, commonly known as Hashimoto's disease—which is prevalent in our country—weight gain, edema, fatigue, and lethargy may occur depending on the severity of the resulting hypothyroidism.

WHAT HAPPENS IF IT IS NOT DIAGNOSED?

To correct this condition, which can lead to a fatal clinical state called myxedema if left undiagnosed or neglected, patients must use thyroid hormones and have their hormone levels checked regularly. Dosage adjustments can be made under medical supervision to achieve the ideal medication level.

DOES HAVING HAD THYROID SURGERY CAUSE WEIGHT GAIN?

Since thyroid hormone is not produced after the surgical removal of the thyroid gland, hypothyroidism develops; therefore, thyroid hormone is administered to thyroid patients who have undergone surgery. "Levothyroxine Sodium," which must be taken daily, is an extremely safe medication and is 99% identical to the thyroid hormone produced by the human body.

DOES NOT TAKING THYROID MEDICATION CAUSE PROBLEMS?

Neglecting to take this medication, not using it regularly, using it in inappropriate doses, or skipping doctor appointments can lead to the development of hypothyroidism, which may cause unwanted weight gain. Weight gain and uncontrolled weight loss are signs of a change in hormone levels or that the medication is being used in an inappropriate dose.

ARE VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS NECESSARY?

If you have a regular and balanced diet, it is not essential to take vitamins and minerals that are only needed in small amounts or are not stored in the body. However, supplements for a few elements may be recommended regarding thyroid diseases.

HOW DOES SELENIUM DEFICIENCY AFFECT THE COURSE OF THE DISEASE?

Selenium is an important component involved in the metabolism of thyroid hormones; selenium is required for the functioning of the 5-deiodinase enzyme, which is responsible for the conversion of T4, one of the thyroid hormones, into T3. In the case of selenium deficiency, the activity of this enzyme is impaired, T4 and TSH hormone levels rise in the blood, and T3 hormone levels fall.

IS IT DANGEROUS IF IODINE AND SELENIUM DEFICIENCY OCCUR TOGETHER?

The severity of the disease can increase. Fish, shrimp, beef liver, turkey and beef, lentils, mushrooms, sesame, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and whole grains are foods rich in selenium.

WHICH FOODS SHOULD BE CONSUMED IN CASE OF ZINC DEFICIENCY?

Just like selenium, when a deficiency of zinc occurs, thyroid metabolism is impaired. Therefore, it is sufficient to consume foods rich in zinc, such as cheese, milk and dairy products, fish, beef, chicken, eggs, whole-wheat bread, potatoes, walnuts, and almonds.

IS IRON DEFICIENCY RELATED TO THYROID GLAND DISEASES?

Various scientific sources have shown that hypothyroidism can develop in iron-deficiency anemia due to the inability of the iron-dependent Thyroid Peroxidase enzyme to function. Therefore, as with all patients, the causes of iron-deficiency anemia should be investigated and corrected in patients with hypothyroidism.

News Source: 12punto