Health Alert: Women at Higher Risk of Thyroid Problems, Expert

The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped organ in the front of the neck. It helps control metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature.

But many thyroid problems often go unnoticed, especially in women. Their symptoms can be confused with stress, aging, or normal hormonal changes.

In a chat with PT Health Watch, reproductive endocrinologist Oladapo Ashiru pointed out that women are much more likely than men to have thyroid issues. He referenced Nigerian studies showing female-to-male ratios between 6.3:1 to as high as 98:1.

Mr Ashiru emphasized that spotting the warning signs early is key. Untreated thyroid problems can impact fertility, pregnancy, and overall quality of life.

Symptoms Often Missed

Mr Ashiru explained that thyroid disorders mainly come in two types: hypothyroidism, where the gland is not active enough, and hyperthyroidism, where it is too active.

An underactive thyroid often causes unexpected weight gain, feeling cold all the time, and thinning hair. On the other hand, an overactive thyroid can lead to sudden weight loss, heat intolerance, and a quicker metabolism.

“If the thyroid is underactive, there will be increased weight or unexplained weight gain. If it is overactive, there will be unexplained weight loss. The person may feel too cold in a normal environment if it is underactive, or too hot in a cool environment if it is overactive,” he said.

In addition to these symptoms, women might face irregular menstrual cycles, mood swings, anxiety, depression, constipation, or frequent bowel movements.

Mr Ashiru, who leads the Medical Art Centre, noted that women are also more likely to feel neck tightness from an enlarged thyroid, excessive tearing, and ongoing symptoms even after treatment.

In contrast, men usually show symptoms like heart palpitations.

He said that because many thyroid symptoms look like those linked to stress, menopause, and other common conditions, thyroid disorders in women are often missed or diagnosed late.

Effects on Fertility and Pregnancy

Mr Ashiru mentioned that women aged 30 to 49 are at the highest risk for thyroid disorders, though younger women can be affected too.

He warned that untreated thyroid disease can disrupt ovulation, increase menstrual bleeding, raise the risk of miscarriage, and lead to problems after childbirth.

For women planning to get pregnant, he advised thyroid screening to find and treat any issues before conception.

The endocrinologist also pointed out postpartum thyroiditis, which is inflammation of the thyroid gland that can happen after giving birth.

According to him, new mothers should not ignore ongoing tiredness as just being part of caring for a newborn, as it may indicate a thyroid issue.

Screening and Healthy Habits

Mr Ashiru said doctors can diagnose thyroid disorders through simple hormone tests available in many Nigerian hospitals and labs.

He suggested regular screening, especially for women aged 35 and above, pregnant women, and those with a family history of thyroid problems.

Some thyroid issues can run in families, but he said healthy lifestyle choices can help support thyroid function.

These choices include getting enough sleep, managing stress, eating a balanced diet with the right amounts of iodine and selenium-rich foods like eggs, fish, and beans, and staying active.

He also encouraged managing stress through family support, prayer, and relaxation methods like deep-breathing exercises.

His advice includes limiting processed foods, genetically modified foods, and environmental toxins, which he believes can affect thyroid health.

Early Diagnosis Improves Outcomes

Mr Ashiru stated that treatment varies based on the type of thyroid disorder. Many patients do well on thyroid hormone replacement therapy or other medications.

He stressed that early diagnosis is the best way to prevent complications and enhance quality of life.

Describing the thyroid as a key organ, he stated it regulates reproductive hormones and helps the heart, skin, and other body systems work properly.

He also warned that exposure to environmental toxins can harm thyroid function and urged people to reduce avoidable environmental risks.