Dr. Neelima Chu, an endocrinologist at Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Group, has highlighted that thyroid issues may be more prevalent than commonly recognized. These issues can arise from a variety of commonplace factors.
"A woman may also be at increased risk if there is a strong family history of thyroid cancer or underactive or overactive thyroid disorders," said Chu, according to Sharp Health News. "There are many causes for fatigue. Issues related to thyroid hormones can be one of the causes, which can be confirmed by a blood test."
According to Sharp Health News, the consequences of these conditions can influence breathing, heart rate, mood, and digestion. Evidence suggests that women are more likely to experience thyroid issues than men; statistics indicate that 1 in 8 women have thyroid-related problems. Many individuals suffer from thyroidism, which can manifest through various symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, increased swelling, and muscle weakness. It is crucial to exercise caution when diagnosing these symptoms as they can often be mistaken for menopausal symptoms.
Making healthy lifestyle changes could potentially reduce the risk of developing thyroid issues. While these lifestyle modifications are generally beneficial for overall health, they may specifically decrease inflammation - a primary cause of thyroid disease, reported Sharp Health News. Addressing iron deficiency could also contribute to improving both general and thyroid health.
Sharp Health News further provided some background information on Chu. She received her education at the University of Vermont with areas of focus including adrenal disorders and pituitary tumors among others. In her own words, she values empowering each patient and assisting them to the best of her ability. Chu completed an internship at Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center and enjoys cooking, reading, and watching television in her leisure time.
