Complexity of Thyroid Disease

Women are at higher risk for developing thyroid dysfunction. According to research, women are five to eight times more likely to have imbalance in thyroid hormones than men, but most don’t know they have it. [1] Most women often overlook their symptoms or mistake them for symptoms of other medical conditions. For example, most women who gave birth experience symptoms that are very similar to that of thyroid disease.
In young men, thyroid imbalance can be easily diagnosed with a blood test. However, as men age, thyroid imbalance becomes more difficult to diagnose because the number of symptoms often decrease. To further complicate matters, older men with thyroid imbalance often experience symptoms that are very similar to the normal symptoms of ageing. These include weight changes, low mood, depression, bone problems, cognitive decline, sleeping difficulties, hair loss, and tremors.
To address the complexity of thyroid disease in both men and women, an experienced and skilled doctor must perform a blood test that measures TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone), free T3, and T4. In addition to this, a physical exam must also be performed to assess the signs and symptoms. Once a correct diagnosis is done, your doctor will come up with a medical management that is tailored to your health needs.