Early diagnosis of thyroid dysfunction need of the hour

Mohali, January 15, 2022: The thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland, is the primary regulator of metabolism and responsible for producing hormones that play a vital role in several body functions. However, awareness about the disease and its diagnosis continues to be considerably low. 

To create awareness about thyroid and diseases related to it, January is observed as the Thyroid Awareness Month.

Dr KP Singh, Director, Endocrinology, Fortis Hospital Mohali, gave a detailed insight into thyroid problems and explains how any malfunction in the gland affects bodily functions. He said Thyroid problems are caused by malnourishment due to nutrient deficiencies; excessive intake of caffeine, sugar, or other stimulants; and substances that inhibit the proper functioning of the thyroid, such as hard liquor.

Women are 6 to 8 times more likely to develop a thyroid condition than men. Those above 50 years of age are also at a high risk of developing the health condition. A personal history of thyroid disease increases one’s current risk for developing the disease. A first-degree female relative (mother, sister, daughter) with a thyroid disease increases the risk of developing the health condition. 

Early diagnosis of a thyroid problem helps in better management of the health condition. One can prevent the disease through healthy diet, regular check-ups, avoid distilled water, and use of chelated supplements of minerals in food.
A common method to check thyroid problems is to pace a basal thermometer in the armpit for 10 minutes upon waking up in the morning. The thermometer must be calibrated to the tenths of a degree. The normal body temperature range for this test lies between 97.8 and 98.2 degrees Fahrenheit. A reading below the range could indicate low thyroid activity (hypothyroidism), whilst a reading above could mean excess activity (hyperthyroidism). Other diagnostic tests are also available to detect hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

About Fortis Healthcare
Fortis Healthcare Limited – an IHH Healthcare Group Company – is a leading integrated healthcare services provider in India. It is one of the largest healthcare organizations in the country with 36 healthcare facilities (including projects under development), 4000 operational beds, and over 400 diagnostics centres (including JVs). Fortis is present in India, United Arab Emirates (UAE) & Sri Lanka. The Company is listed on the BSE Ltd and National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India. It draws strength from its partnership with global major and parent company, IHH, to build upon its culture of world-class patient care and superlative clinical excellence. Fortis employs 23,000 people (including SRL) who share its vision of becoming the world’s most trusted healthcare network. Fortis offers a full spectrum of integrated healthcare services ranging from clinics to quaternary care facilities and a wide range of ancillary services.