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The thyroid is a small gland that can cause big problems. Some medical experts estimate that 59 million Americans suffer from thyroid disease, with women seven times more likely to be affected than men. This butterfly-shaped gland sits in the lower neck and is the body's chief secretor of hormones. Many health issues, including an increased risk for Heart disease, are linked to an ill-functioning thyroid.

Common thyroid diseases are hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), goiter, nodules, cancer and inflammatory thyroiditis. Some thyroid ailments are often misdiagnosed as depression and thyroid testing usually is not part of routine physicals and blood work. It is important to recognize the symptoms of thyroid disease and discuss concerns with a physician.

Those with nodules or goiter may experience neck and throat discomfort like hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and a swelling sensation. They might see and feel protrusions and experience breathing difficulties if the protrusions press against the windpipe.

Many times, thyroid disease does not present itself with a lump that becomes obvious to the sufferer. The number one indicator of thyroid disease is fatigue, experienced even with adequate sleep. Next is a change in weight, either gaining or losing, despite no diet and exercise adjustments. Anxiety, depression and panic attacks may also point to thyroid problems, especially when those conditions don't improve with medication. High cholesterol that does not respond to treatment is also an indicator that the real problem is with the thyroid.

Dry, brittle hair and numerous skin problems are other common complaints of those who harbor thyroid disease. Hair loss, seen in both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can be severe in the latter. Skin may feel thick and scaly or thin and fragile.

Patients may be plagued with frequent constipation or diarrhea as well as with sexual dysfunction, joint and muscle pain, tendonitis, arm weakness and carpel tunnel. Finally, women with thyroid problems may struggle with menstrual abnormalities and infertility.

A family history of thyroid disease raises one's risk for developing it, but the good news is that most conditions can be successfully treated. Feeling the neck for lumps, requesting thyroid testing and reporting symptoms can lead to diagnosis, treatment and restored health.
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