January is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month

As a 35-year thyroid cancer survivor, I know the importance the thyroid plays in our lives, and what it is like to live without one. Let me start by sharing some important statistics with you:

The World Health Organization estimates that 750 million people in the world have some form of thyroid disease.

 The ATA say that as many as 60% are undiagnosed

Around 8 times more women are affected than men, with key triggers being puberty, pregnancy and the menopause.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

And symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

  • Increased sweating
  • Anxiety
  • Oversensitivity to heat
  • Palpitations
  • Diarrhoea
  • Increased appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Dry, thin skin
  • Hair loss
  • Shakiness/trembling
  • Fatigue
  • Change in sex drive
  • Larger eyes
  • Mood changes
  • Nervousness
  • Insomnia
  • Dry or gritty eyes
  • Double vision
  • Weak, less define muscles
  • Aches and pains
  • Changes to menstrual cycle
  • Infertility or problems conceiving

While many of these symptoms can have more than one cause, it is important for you to be aware of them; particularly if you have multiple symptoms in either category. Make an appointment and talk to your doctor about your concerns. As with most health issues, when things are caught early the prognosis is usually much better!