Thyroid Awareness Month: Self-Check Tips for a Healthy Thyroid
The thyroid is a small gland with a big job, regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall health. But how do you know if it’s working as it should? This Thyroid Awareness Month, we’re sharing a simple guide to checking yourself for potential thyroid issues—because early detection can make a big difference.
Why Thyroid Awareness Month Mattes
According to the American Thyroid Association, approximately 12% of the U.S. population has some form of thyroid disorder. Additionally, women are particularly vulnerable, being 5-8 times more likely than men to develop thyroid issues, with one in eight women facing a thyroid disorder in their lifetime.
These conditions, if left untreated, can lead to severe health issues, including cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and complications during pregnancy.
Thyroid Awareness Month, celebrated every January, plays a vital role in promoting public awareness about thyroid health. It educates people on the thyroid gland's functions and common disorders, encourages early detection through symptom recognition, and reduces misdiagnosis by highlighting the possibility of thyroid issues.
Why You Should Check Your Thyroid
The thyroid gland sits at the base of your neck. It produces hormones that control critical functions like heart rate, body temperature, and energy usage. When the gland is not functioning properly, symptoms can manifest as:
Persistent fatigue
Unexplained weight changes
Hair thinning or hair loss
Sensitivity to temperature
Swelling or discomfort in the neck
Self-checking your thyroid can help you spot signs early and seek professional evaluation if needed.
How to Perform a Thyroid Self-Check
Follow these steps to check your thyroid:
Get in Front of a Mirror
Use a well-lit area and stand in front of a mirror. If you have a handheld mirror, you can also use it to view your neck from different angles.
Locate Your Thyroid Area
The thyroid is located just below the Adam’s apple (larynx) and above the collarbone. Keep your focus on this region of your neck.
Take a Sip of Water
Tilt your head back slightly and take a sip of water. Watch your neck closely as you swallow.
Look for Movement
Observe the thyroid area as you swallow. Normally, the area should move up and down smoothly. Look for any swelling, lumps, or asymmetry in the neck.
Feel for Lumps or Enlargements
Gently press your fingers along the thyroid area. Note if you feel any unusual bumps or tenderness.
What Should You Do If You Notice Something?
It’s essential to seek medical evaluation. Most thyroid issues are treatable, and early detection can prevent complications. Seek a professional's opinion if you detect:
A lump, swelling, or asymmetry in the thyroid area
Persistent discomfort, tightness, or tenderness in your neck
Difficulty swallowing or changes in your voice
Take Charge of Your Thyroid Health, seek Expert care
If you notice a mass near your thyroid or experience voice changes, consult a healthcare professional. Schedule a consultation at ENT Family to get the answers you need and the care you deserve.
Address: 3911 Hollywood Blvd#201, Hollywood, FL 33021, United States
Phone: 754-888-1368
Email: info@entfamily.com
REFERENCES
American Association of Clinical Endocrinology. (n.d.). How to check your thyroid. https://www.aace.com/disease-and-conditions/thyroid/how-check-your-thyroid
American Thyroid Association (n.d.). General Information/Press Room. https://www.thyroid.org/media-main/press-room/
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