Doctors say many are unaware that they have a thyroid disease

Dubai-UAE: 19 January, 2017:  According to figures released during the 10th Annual Middle East Otolaryngology Conference & Exhibitionin 2013, around 5% of the population in the UAE suffer from thyroid disease. However, this number is debatable as most sufferers are unaware of the problem. The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland in the anterior aspect of the neck that regulates our body’s metabolism, controls the body’s temperature and affects how we burn calories. Complications arise when the thryoid gland is underactive or overactive.

“The symptoms of thyroid disease are vague and therefore it usually goes undiagnosed. Those with an underactive thyroid, suffer from a condition known as hypothyroidism. Symptoms such as weight gain and increased fatigue are passed off as the result of a sedentary lifestyle. Hair fall, puffy face and dry skin are blamed on the weather and constipation is brushed off as poor diet,” said Dr. Ahmed Alhaj Saleh, Consultant Internal Medicine at Medeor 24x7 Hospital, Dubai. “Women especially, only realize they are suffering from a thyroid condition when it has progressed much further and it starts affecting their menstrual cycle and fertility. When a woman has an irregular menstrual cycle or has trouble conceiving, a Doctor will also check thyroid levels as the low levels of the thyroid hormone affects the release of the egg during ovulation which can hamper fertility.”

If left undiagnosed, hypothyroidism can also lead to depression, slow body processes and forgetfulness. However, Dr. Ahmed advises people to consult a Doctor at the early onset of symptoms in order to better manage the condition.

“The common symptoms of hypothyroidism are unexplained weight gain, fatigue, intolerance to the cold, constipation, dry skin, muscle sensitivity, thinning hair and joint pain,” he said. “If you have experienced any of these symptoms, consult a Doctor at the earliest who will diagnose the condition through a simple blood test and ultrasound. While there is no medication to cure hypothyroidism, the condition can be managed through medication and lifestyle changes like exercising regularly and following a healthy diet.”

An overactive thyroid leads to a condition known as hyperthyroidism.

“Sufferers of hyperthyroidism too tend to be dismissive of their symptoms. With everyone keen to lose a few kilograms, the rapid weight loss associated with the condition is welcomed. Most don’t know the reason for this is actually an underlying health condition,” said Dr. Ahmed. “The thyroid gland is responsible for the production of the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Excess production of these hormones in our body causes hyperthyroidism resulting in the acceleration of our metabolic rate, rapid heartbeat, hand tremors, excessive sweating and trouble sleeping.”

While there is no spontaneous cure for hyperthyroidism it can be managed through medication or surgically if needed and lifestyle changes.
“If left untreated thyroid diseases can lead to further complications in our body’s systems and so it is important for people to be proactive and seek a Doctor’s advice as soon as they begin to notice the symptoms,” said Dr. Mohammed Berer, the Medical Director at Medeor 24x7 Hospital, Dubai. “We hope by highlighting these symptoms, people become more aware of these medical conditions.”

Till the 20thof January, Medeor 24x7 Hospital Dubai is offering free thyroid check ups on prior appointment basis. For more information, please call 800500600.