The doctor explains how being aware of some signs is important to prevent the problem from progressing
Calls for help from the thyroid, an “H”-shaped organ that surrounds the front of the neck near the trachea, occur throughout the body and impact a patient’s daily life. Symptoms are varied and can manifest in the eyes, genitals, muscles, hair, mood and even memory. This happens because the thyroid is an endocrine gland, that is, it is involved in the production and release of the hormones T3 and T4 (triiodothyronine and thyroxine), which have an intense effect on human metabolism.
“It is essential for controlling the dynamics of the organism. The diseases that affect it can be functional or nodular. The former are linked to the excessive or insufficient production of these hormones, called hyperthyroidism/hypothyroidism, and cause strong changes in the state of health, manifesting usually in people with genetics/family”, explains Sérgio Uchôa, coordinator of the Head and Neck Surgery service at the São Luiz Jabaquara Hospital, in Rede D’Or.
Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism
In hyperthyroidism, an acceleration of metabolic activity occurs, causing symptoms such as exophthalmos (bulging and enlarged eyes), insomnia, palpitations, tremors, sweating, weight loss and emotional instability. Another little-known condition is Graves’ orbitopathy or ophthalmopathy, a condition in which inflammation at the back of the eye socket, related to hyperthyroidismpushes the eyes forward causing exophthalmos.
Hypothyroidism manifests as a decrease in metabolism, causing drowsiness, weight gain, hair loss, brittle nails, dry skin, constipation, sexual impotence and slow thinking. “The risk of thyroid deficiencies is also linked to iodine deficiency in the diet. In Brazil, regular supplementation of this nutrient in the form of salt has resolved this variable. But it is still not enough for society to ignore the problem as a whole” , analyzes the doctor.
Nodular diseases
Cases of nodular diseases, called nodular goiter, consist of a benign increase in glandular volume. To address the situation, it is essential for the patient to consult an endocrinologist or a head and neck surgeon as soon as he notices any changes in her well-being.
With a more complex treatment they divide into solid or cystic, being bulky and uncomfortable, swelling the neck and giving the sensation of strangulation and limited swallowing. Malignant diagnoses can also lead to changes in voice and breathing.
“In general, tumors of thyroid They are slow and painless and allow for high cure rates if treated early and appropriately. In this sense, at the slightest sign of manifestation, including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, a Request Medical treatment must be carried out to investigate, identify and resolve the problem”, underlines the professional.
Prevent thyroid diseases
In the week in which International Thyroid Day is celebrated (25/5), the doctor warns about the importance of adopting habits and eat healthy. “Exercise, avoid inflammatory foods, stay hydrated and do activities to reduce stress. These are relatively simple attitudes that can control and even prevent the development of thyroid disease,” emphasizes Sérgio Uchôa. Fulfill queries and routine tests are also essential for the early diagnosis of diseases.
Treatments for thyroid diseases
Currently the best therapeutic practices aim at increasingly conservative therapies, preserving the gland and avoiding its complete extraction. Subtle and less invasive techniques, such as thermal nodule ablation and ultrasound-guided alcoholization, are examples of rapid recovery measures without leaving scars from tumor removal.
There are rare cases, already advanced, in which the removal of the entire thyroid is unfortunately necessary, which leads to the loss of hormonal production and forces the patient to replace it with daily pills. «With replacement you can live well. But it is more natural when the organ prevails. Therefore, the earlier it is identified, the greater the possibility of maintaining it at least partially, guaranteeing a better quality of life and autonomy for the organism. person”, adds Sérgio Uchôa.
Celebrities with thyroid problems
There are celebrities with comorbidities endocrinological. Actors such as Leandro Hassum, Paolla Oliveira and Camila Pitanga, as well as presenters, musicians and athletes such as Xuxa Meneghel, Fausto Silva, Preta Gil, Anitta, Ronaldo Fenômeno and Neymar promote the notoriety of their struggle.
“Public figures have a great responsibility and influence. The fact that there are some with pathologies of this type arouses interest and demystifies the topic. However, we must remember that each case is unique, so only a specialist can prescribe the treatment” he concludes the doctor from São Luiz Jabaquara.
By Samara Meni
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
