Why Does Thyroid Occur More in Females?

According to the American Thyroid Association, one in every eight women is likely to develop thyroid during their lifetime. Further, as per a study published in the Medical Clinics of North America Journal, hypothyroidism and thyroid nodules are common in pre- and post-menstrual women. Pregnancy is also linked to thyroid function changes.

However, the exact reason why women are more prone to thyroid issues is not known. Medical professionals believe that thyroid issues are often triggered by autoimmune responses, which refer to a state when the immune system starts destroying its own cells.

Since autoimmune diseases are common in females, it can be a possible reason for their vulnerability to thyroid disorders.

Untimely diagnosis and treatment can put thyroid patients at risk for serious conditions such as infertility, osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases. To prevent this, individuals must understand the causes, effects, symptoms and treatment of thyroid issues in females.

What Are the Causes of Thyroid in Females?

Some of the causes of thyroid in females include:

1. Genetics: Genetic conditions can contribute to the development of thyroid in females.
2. Hormonal Fluctuations: Changes in the levels of hormones can affect thyroid functioning and lead to thyroid issues in women.
3. Autoimmune Disease: As per a study published in the Evolutionary Applications journal, women are four times more likely to have an autoimmune disease. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a disorder in which the immune system targets the thyroid gland, causing hypothyroidism.
4. Stress: This can disrupt the hormone balance in the body, causing thyroid disease in women.
5. Iodine Deficiency: Iodine is crucial to producing thyroid hormones. Consequently, a deficiency can disrupt the optimal functioning of the thyroid gland.

How Does Thyroid Affect the Female Body?

The thyroid gland produces T3 and T4 hormones that help regulate metabolism and maintain the overall health of the body. Here is how a change in the functioning of this gland can affect women:

1. Disruption in Menstrual Cycle: Thyroid disease in women can lead to heavy bleeding, absence of periods, irregular periods, etc.
2. Infertility: Since thyroid hormones are essential to egg quality and ovulation, any change in their levels can hinder efforts to conceive or cause a miscarriage.
3. Threaten the Life of Mother and Foetus: Thyroid disorder during pregnancy can lead to complications such as preeclampsia (high blood pressure), gestational diabetes, miscarriage or premature birth.
4. Early Menopause: Thyroid issues in women can set off early menopause and cause symptoms such as mood swings, hot flashes, fatigue, etc.
5. Changes in Weight: In the case of hypothyroidism, women gain weight, while hyperthyroidism can cause weight loss.
6. Changes in Energy Levels: Thyroid issues in women can interfere with energy levels, making it difficult to perform daily tasks.
7. Affect Skin and Hair: Thyroid disease in women can cause dry skin, hair loss and brittle nails.
8. Affect Heart Health: Hyperthyroidism can strain the heart and increase the risk of heart palpitations, arrhythmias, etc.

What Are the Symptoms of Thyroid Disease in Women?

According to the American Thyroid Association, over 60% of thyroid patients are not aware that they suffer from it. The following are some of the thyroid symptoms in females:

1. Weight fluctuations
2. Tiredness and fatigue
3. Irregular menstrual cycle
4. Dry skin and hair
5. Anxiety
6. Tremors
7. Sweating
8. Changes in bowel movements
9. Sensitivity to temperatures

How Is Thyroid Diagnosed?

Thyroid in females and males is diagnosed through the following:

• Blood Tests: These include the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid antibodies and the T3 and T4 tests.
• Imaging Tests: These include a thyroid ultrasound and nuclear medicine imaging like thyroid uptake and scan.

Thyroid in females is more common than in males and can cause serious issues such as infertility, cardiovascular conditions, etc. Individuals, especially women suffering from the thyroid symptoms mentioned above, must consult a doctor and book a thyroid test with Dr Lal PathLabs for timely diagnosis and treatment.

FAQs

1. What is the Most Common Thyroid Disease in Females?

Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid disease in females. Its symptoms include fatigue, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, depression, weight gain, etc.

2. What Happens if a Woman Has Thyroid Problems?

Thyroid in females can cause disruption in the menstrual cycle, infertility, complications during pregnancy, early menopause, weight fluctuations, fatigue and heart conditions.