Thyroid health screener
The thyroid gland regulates many metabolic processes, including growth and energy use. Common problems with the thyroid gland include overactivity, known as hyperthyroidism and underactivity, known as hypothyroidism. The thyroid health screener tests some of the common symptoms and risk factors for thyroid disease.
Take our thyroid health screener
Note that the thyroid health screener is not a diagnostic tool and should not be used in place of professional, medical advice. The reported symptoms of thyroid diseases are common complaints of many illnesses. If you are concerned about your health or your results from this test, make an appointment to speak to your local doctor.
About thyroid health
The thyroid is a gland of the endocrine system. The thyroid gland is found in the neck, below the thyroid cartilage which forms the laryngeal prominence or Adam’s apple. It is responsible for the regulation of thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and thriiodothyronine (T3) that play a large role in the proper conversion of calories and oxygen to energy, called metabolism. For persons with a thyroid hormone problem, there may be an impairment of the structure of the thyroid, the function of the thyroid or pituitary gland.
Hormones are powerful chemicals that can affect the way you feel every day. Long term issues with thyroid health can lead to further complications. Some of the common types and symptoms of thyroid disorder are:
- Hypothyroidisim can be caused by an underactive thyroid or as a result of thyroid surgery. Patients with hypothyroidism may experience some of these symptoms:
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Tiredness
- Thinning hair
- Sluggishness
- A slow heart rate called bradycardia
- Hyperthyroidism is also known as an overactive thyroid. Patients with hyperthyroidism may experience some of these symptoms:
- Hair loss
- Weight loss
- Agitation
- A fast heart beat called tachycardia
- Irregular heart beat
- Changes to the eye
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the thyroid.
- Thyroid nodules are palpable lumps on the thyroid. Thyroid cancer may be suspected if there are thyroid nodules.
If you have questions or concerns about thyroid problems see your local doctor who will arrange for you to see a thyroid surgeon.
