Thyroid diseases are more prevalent in women than in men, and this is partly due to the autoimmune nature of many thyroid disorders. Hypothyroidism and thyroid nodules are common in pre- and post-menopausal women, and pregnancy is also associated with changes in thyroid function. The most frequent hormonal imbalance that I observe clinically is the estrogen domain. This makes sense, since stress reduces progesterone levels, allowing estrogen to move freely throughout the body.
There is a delicate balance between all hormones, and without enough progesterone, estrogen can affect tissues. Thyroid problems can occur at any time, but they are especially common in women during and after menopause, when hormone levels are changing. The most common cause of hypothyroidism in women is the autoimmune disease called Hashimoto's disease, which causes antibodies to attack the thyroid and destroy its ability to produce thyroid hormone. This is because many thyroid disorders are triggered by autoimmune responses, when the body's immune system starts attacking its own cells. Consuming the recommended amount of iodine as part of a balanced diet of nutritious fruits and vegetables is a first step in maintaining thyroid health.
Only anaplastic thyroid cancer, which accounts for 1% of thyroid cancers, grows rapidly and is difficult to control. However, many of the effects and risks associated with thyroid disorders in women can be managed with appropriate treatment. Thyroid disease is any benign or malignant condition that affects the structure or functioning of the thyroid gland1, impairing its ability to produce the hormones necessary for proper metabolism. Research studies also indicate that thyroid problems seem to be more prevalent in people of middle or older age. It is important to understand your risk and how your symptoms may be related to your thyroid, so you can get the help you need.
If you have a family history of thyroid problems, then you have a higher chance of developing them yourself. The guide provides basic diagnostic and therapeutic information for nodular thyroid disease, Graves disease, goiter and Hashimoto's disease. The thyroid needs B vitamins, selenium, zinc, vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin C, iron, tyrosine, and iodine to work properly. Additionally, if you have a history of postpartum thyroiditis, your risk of developing permanent hypothyroidism is higher within 5 to 10 years. In addition to being more common in women, thyroid problems can also cause some additional symptoms in women.
