Neglecting thyroid disorders can be dangerous, warns Medicover’s senior physician
Nellore: Speaking at an awareness seminar held at Medicover Hospitals, Dr Vijayakumar, a senior physician and diabetologist, warned that neglecting thyroid disorders can be highly dangerous. He noted that thyroid-related health issues are rising rapidly, affecting men as well as women.
He identified poor dietary habits, hereditary factors, and iodine deficiency as the primary drivers behind the spike in cases. Dr Vijayakumar explained that the thyroid gland is responsible for vital bodily functions, including regulating metabolism, maintaining proper hormonal balance, controlling heart rate, regulating body temperature, and managing weight.
Any functional changes within this gland can lead to hypothyroidism. This condition is characterized by severe fatigue, sudden weight gain, swelling in the neck region, and menstrual irregularities in women, while some individuals may also experience a slowed heart rate.
To confirm a diagnosis, patients can undergo medical tests such as T3, T4, and TSH assays, TPO antibody tests, thyroid scans, and ultrasounds.
Dr Vijayakumar strongly advised that if any lumps are detected in the neck, an FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) test must be performed immediately to rule out cancer and identify benign growths.
To manage the disorder effectively, he urged patients to take their prescribed medications regularly, consume an iodine-rich diet, and implement lifestyle measures to actively reduce stress.
