Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid gland makes too much of the hormone thyroxine. Side effects of this condition can include problems with the eyes, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and unexplained weight loss. Below are a number of risk factors for this condition.
Risk Factors You Cannot Control
There are certain risk factors for hyperthyroidism that you do not have control over. One of these risk factors is being female; women are eight times more likely than men to develop this condition, and that risk is increased further for the year following the birth of a child. Being between the ages of 20 and 40 makes it more likely that you will develop thyroid problems. If you are female, of the right age, and are having any of the symptoms discussed above, relay your concerns to your doctor to determine if thyroid testing may be necessary.
A personal or family history of autoimmune or endocrine diseases can put you more at risk. Also, you are more likely to develop hyperthyroidism if you have a history of thyroid surgeries, injections, or biopsies or injuries like whiplash from accidents that can damage thyroid tissue. Although there is nothing you can do if you have these factors, it is very important to let your physician know about them to give him or her the most accurate picture possible of your medical history.
Risk Factors You Can Control
The good news is that there are a number of risk factors for this condition that you do have control over. One of them is smoking, puts you at greater risk for developing thyroid problems. Smoking cessation can reduce this risk, so when you feel you are ready, talk to your doctor about a plan of action to help you quit smoking for good. This plan could involve nicotine patches or gum, medications, and support groups.
Another controllable risk factor is stress, which has also been known to trigger hyperthyroidism. If you feel that you are not able to cope with the level of stress in your life, lifestyle changes like regular exercise, improved sleep habits, and activities like meditation or yoga can help. If you feel like more help is required, discuss possible medical interventions with your doctor.
One of the most avoidable triggers to hyperthyroidism is the overuse of thyroid medications, oral iodine, and supplements that contain iodine. Oftentimes, this overuse can be unintentional. If you are on thyroid medications like Synthroid, be sure that you are tested regularly to make sure that your thyroid levels are where your doctor wants them to be. If you are taking oral iodine or supplements that contain iodine, such as kelp, be sure you discuss this with your physician to make sure that this will not lead to unwanted complications.
In short, hyperthyroidism can be a complicated process. Some factors like your age and gender simply cannot be changed. However, there are many risks like smoking, stress levels, and the use of certain medications and supplements that you do have control over.
