[메디컬투데이=김준수 기자] The butterfly-shaped endocrine organ located just below the uvula is called the thyroid gland. As an essential organ in the body, the hormones secreted by the thyroid gland affect the overall body. It is involved in metabolic processes, generates heat in the body, consumes energy, and is involved in blood pressure and cardiac function in the heart. It also promotes cholesterol decomposition and fat metabolism, and plays an important role in bone growth and brain development.
If an abnormality occurs in the thyroid gland and it does not secrete hormones normally, hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism occurs. Additionally, nodules, inflammation, and lumps may occur in the thyroid gland, and in some cases, they may develop into thyroid cancer. In particular, if symptoms such as sudden weight gain or body swelling appear without any reason, you need to suspect hypothyroidism.
In the case of hypothyroidism, it refers to the secretion of low thyroid hormones, which means that our body does not have sufficient energy and metabolic processes.
The causes can be broadly classified into two types. It can be divided into hypothyroidism caused by abnormalities in the thyroid gland itself and hypofunction caused by abnormal secretion of pituitary hormones. However, in most cases, autoimmune thyroiditis caused by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is considered the cause.
The main symptoms of hypothyroidism are as follows: △The metabolic function of the whole body deteriorates △You get cold easily and do not sweat easily △Skin becomes dry and pale △Concentration and memory decline △Weight increases even though appetite decreases △Constipation symptoms occur △Women’s If menstrual flow increases
“If hypothyroidism is suspected, a blood test can be performed,” said Yoon Jeong-min, director of Samsong Leaders Internal Medicine (internal medicine specialist). “Diagnosis can be made by measuring the concentration of thyroid hormones through a blood test. “Hypothyroidism is diagnosed when the concentration of thyroid hormones (T4/T3) is measured lower than normal or when thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is higher than normal,” he explained.
In particular, in the case of hypothyroidism, self-cure is rare, so consistent management along with treatment is necessary. In the case of treatment, it is carried out by taking thyroid hormone preparations to make up for the deficiency. However, it is important to keep in mind that this is a supplement and does not treat the disease, so it should not be stopped without instructions from a medical professional.
Hypothyroidism does not show clear symptoms in the early stages and progresses slowly, so it is not easy to recognize. Above all, it is important to keep in mind that since it is caused by an autoimmune disease, it is important to make your own efforts and improve your life. It is necessary to strengthen immunity through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
[ⓒ 메디컬투데이. 무단전재-재배포 금지]
2023-11-29 10:03:18
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