While thyroid disorders can affect anyone, women typically have a higher risk. In fact, women have a five to eight times greater chance of experiencing thyroid dysfunction as compared to men. Accordingly, women must remain vigilant to possible issues to ensure they receive timely treatment for thyroid problems.
The thyroid gland produces hormones that are essential for numerous bodily functions. When thyroid problems impact women, the following effects may occur:
Thyroid issues can cause symptoms like fatigue, sensitivity to cold temperatures, weight gain, and other health effects. Upon experiencing these issues, women are encouraged to visit a doctor for testing.
Treatment of thyroid problems typically depends on the type of disorder and the effects its causing. Overactive thyroids can be treated with medication that controls how many hormones are released to ensure bodily functions are properly supported. If the thyroid is underactive, hormone therapy will be required.
In the event of thyroid cancer, standard cancer treatments may be recommended. This can include chemotherapy drugs, which kill cancerous cells. Doctors may also recommend targeted drug therapy, which blocks the blood supply to tumours to stop them from growing. Targeted drug therapy can also elicit genetic changes to stop cancerous cells from spreading.