Important things related to thyroidImage Credit source: Getty Images
Thyroid is a serious health problem and taking it lightly can prove costly. There is a butterfly shaped gland in our throat which releases hormones. If it produces more or less hormones then the thyroid gets spoiled. Here we are going to answer some questions related to thyroid through experts. It is believed that thyroid disease is more prevalent in women only. A question also remains whether it can be completely cured. TV9 spoke to Dr. Meenakshi Jain (Principal Director and Head of Department, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Patparganj) about this health problem.
Let us tell you that thyroid is a small gland of the body which produces hormones and affects metabolism, weight, energy and mood. Nowadays this problem is being seen more in women, but it can be controlled well with proper treatment and healthy lifestyle.
Why more in women?
Dr. Meenakshi Jain (Principal Director and Head of Department, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Patparganj) says that hormones like estrogen and progesterone are in excess in women and their fluctuations like periods, pregnancy and menopause can affect the functioning of the thyroid. Apart from this, heredity, iodine deficiency, stress, autoimmune problems and habits like smoking also cause increased thyroid in women. Busy lifestyle, lack of proper sleep and poor diet also play a role in this.
Can thyroid be completely cured?
The idea of eliminating thyroid from its roots is often mistaken. In most cases, it is a long-term problem, but it can be controlled very well with regular medication, a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. After this the symptoms subside and the person can lead a normal life, but often the medicine has to be continued for a long time as per the doctor’s advice.
Yoga and exercise for thyroid control
Regular physical activity and yoga reduce stress and help improve thyroid symptoms by increasing metabolism. In the beginning, light to moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling or dancing in the morning, is very beneficial.
Regular practice of meditation, deep breathing pranayam (like Nadishodhana, Bhramari) and yoga asanas that apply gentle pressure on the throat like Sarvangasana, Halasana, Matsyasana—in the form of yoga—can have a positive effect on the thyroid gland, but these should be done with the advice of an experienced yoga guru or doctor. Meditation, yoga and regular sleep reduce stress, which improves hormonal balance and keeps the thyroid under better control.
If seen, more cases of thyroid in women are related to hormonal fluctuations and modern lifestyle. There is no guarantee that it will be completely eradicated. With medicine, balanced diet, yoga and regular exercise, it can be kept under control very well and life can remain normal.
