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Feeling Blue Or Is It Thyroid? Read More To Find Out

Thyroid disorders are quite common in India. 1 in every 10 Indians lives with hypothyroidism. For a disorder that is so prevalent, not many people are aware of its symptoms and serious health hazards.

The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland that is located in our neck region. It is responsible for producing two crucial hormones – thyroxine or T4 and triiodothyronine or T3. These hormones regulate metabolism and the functions of almost every cell and all the organs in our bodies. If there is an imbalance in the secretion of these hormones. It will affect all the activities of your body.

Thyroid disorders are more common in women than men. Recent studies have revealed that undetected thyroid problems are behind clinical anxiety and depression cases in both men and women. That is why everyone, especially women, needs to become more aware of the signs and symptoms of a thyroid disorder.

Why it’s difficult to guess that you may have a thyroid disorder

The symptoms that imbalance of thyroid hormones trigger can be very similar to signs of stress. Since we all live with varying degrees of stress and anxiety, people tend to call off the signs of thyroid disorders to the fall-out of stress.

Different types of thyroid disorders present differently. To make it simple, if you have noticed any of the following symptoms, you should consider speaking with a doctor:

Another factor that compounds the situation is that depression is more common among women than men, just like thyroid disorders. That is why, when women experience these symptoms, they instinctively associate them with psychological stress.

Common signs of an underactive thyroid are tiredness, weight gain and feeling depressed. An underactive thyroid can often be successfully treated by taking daily hormone tablets to replace the hormones your thyroid isn’t making. There’s no way of preventing an underactive thyroid.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Thyroid disorders can trigger depression

What makes matters worse is that undiagnosed and unmedicated thyroid disorders can result in depression. That would make it even more difficult for people to get the medical help that they need. 

An increase or decrease in thyroid hormone levels can cause mood changes and anxiety. In such a case, the brain also finds it hard to produce dopamine – the happiness hormone. The more severe the thyroid hormone imbalance, the more prominent depression and anxiety can be.

Hypothyroidism and depressionVITAM

Hypothyroidism is more common than hyperthyroidism. This is caused when there is a deficiency of thyroid hormones. You can tell that you may have hypothyroidism if you notice:

Depression is a common symptom of hypothyroidism.

Also Read: 8 Most Effective Foods To Fight Thyroid!

What should you do?

You need to understand that signs of depression can be prompted by a thyroid disorder. So if you have been suffering the symptoms discussed above, consult a doctor. Both your psychological and physical health needs special care. And the right action at the right time is essential.

If your doctor suspects a thyroid disorder, you will be recommended a Thyroid Profile Test. This test will check for the levels of T3, T4 and TSH. 

Based on the test report, your doctor will prescribe medication. The good news is, medicines can normalise your thyroid hormone levels. They also help get rid of the symptoms. You just need to remember to take your medicines on time and in the right dosage.

Any unusual changes in your mind or body need immediate attention. Show yourself some love and care and consult a doctor right away. Thyroid disorders can trigger many health complications. But with correct diagnosis and medication, you will have an easier time managing this disorder and preventing depression. 

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