Browsed by
Tag: thyroid

Are the eyes the window to our health condition?

Are the eyes the window to our health condition?

Comments 0 Comment

Diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and even Alzheimer’s disease can all be identified simply looking into someone’s eyes. Most people have their eyes checked periodically. However,few may be aware that an eye exam is used for more than simply vision correction and vision testing.

The eye is the only organ in the body that allows for a non-invasive examination of the inside by medical professionals due to its frontal “window.” The retina, which is located at the back of the eye, is where blood vessels and the optic nerve are visible in detail.

An optometrist may refer a patient to a medical ophthalmologist if a normal eye exam causes them to have concerns. The medical ophthalmologist will further investigate by doing additional eye exams. If the results of their examinations point to a systemic disease, doctors can then refer the patient to the appropriate expert.

What can be diagnosed?

A routine eye exam can discover vision issues including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Also, other eye conditions like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. The optometrist can learn a lot about a person’s general health by checking the blood vessels in the retina and the optic nerve.

This non-invasive method can identify a wide range of medical illnesses. This includes hypertension, diabetes, thyroid issues, neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis, and hypertension that may not be immediately apparent to the eyes (MS).

“Ocular inflammation can damage a variety of eye structures and is frequently the initial symptom of a systemic illness. According to Dr. Ibrahim, concentrated history-taking and a guided evaluation of the pertinent physiological systems, including blood testing, are the keys to determining the cause.

Eye Exams and Your Health

Doctors can identify general health concerns early enough to intervene with the use of eye examinations. With the use of advanced tests, ophthalmologists can more accurately forecast cardiovascular events. This includes stroke and perhaps spot early indications of mental deterioration like Alzheimer’s. Learn how eye exams can reveal much more than simply eye health by reading the information below.

Brain tumours and stroke

Because the blood vessels in the brain and eyes are similar, an eye doctor may occasionally be able to identify a problem with the brain by looking at the blood vessels in the eyes. If swelling or shadows are noticed in the eye, this could be a sign of a dangerous brain problem. This includes a tumour or blood clots that could cause a stroke.

Diabetes

Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) and diabetic macular edoema are conditions where diabetes has damaged the blood vessels in the retina at the back of the eye (DME). In order to help control their blood sugar, the patient would be encouraged to consult a doctor if an optometrist discovered leaky blood vessels in their eyes. The slow changes begin before any visible symptoms are seen. The likelihood of maintaining vision improves with earlier management of diabetic eye illness.

Hypertension

An eye exam can identify high blood pressure, which is characterised by excessive blood vessel pressure. Sometimes even before your regular doctor makes the diagnosis. You can see swelling, haemorrhages, and leakage in the eyes as a result of the blood vessels that are injured. The CDC claims that approximately one in three adults have hypertension, known as “the silent killer,” and that up to 20% of those people are unaware of their condition. Thus, early diagnosis during an eye doctor’s evaluation can actually save lives.

High Cholesterol

Exams of the eyes might also spot cholesterol accumulation. One of the simplest illnesses to diagnose during a thorough eye exam is high cholesterol. Since the deposits of the disease show up on the front of the eye as a thin, grey rim surrounding the cornea. By analysing artery and vein patterns, it can also be found in the retina.

Retinal Blood Vessel Occlusion is a condition in which blockages limit blood flow to the back of the eye. This leads to temporary or permanent vision loss. These deposits may be an indication of the current or future development of this condition.

Heart Problems

Certain heart disorders that cause the carotid artery in the heart to accumulate plaque can also result in deposits that obstruct the ocular arteries in the eyes. An optometrist would often advise consulting a specialist if they notice these modifications to the vascular system at the back of the eye.

Several Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple Sclerosis may be to blame for sudden visual loss (MS). While the colour and appearance of the optic nerve are indicators of MS that the optometrist can detect, such instances will be sent for additional testing to confirm the diagnosis.

Thyroid

There are various ways that thyroid disease can manifest in the eyes. Certain thyroid abnormalities can lead to dry eye illness because the thyroid gland regulates the hormones that influence tear production. Furthermore, hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid condition, can cause the extraocular muscles to expand and stiffen, resulting in bulging eyes, a sign of Graves’ disease.

Inflammation

The eyes may become inflamed as a result of systemic illnesses that are linked to inflammation in the body. For instance, uveitis, which can result in eye inflammation, redness, and blurred vision, is more common in patients with autoimmune illnesses including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and others.

Cancer

An eye exam can occasionally reveal metastatic malignancies like breast cancer, leukaemia, and other types of cancer. Eye specialists can also diagnose lymphoma and other eye cancers in addition to the previously stated brain cancer, basal cell carcinoma and melanoma (skin cancer), which can also be diagnosed. A good eye check saves lives.

REFERENCES:

  • https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/biking-vs-running-2
  • https://www.brightfocus.org/glaucoma/article/eye-window-your-health
  • https://health.clevelandclinic.org/your-eyes-a-window-to-your-health/
  • https://www.eyecaredoctors.com/2019/12/22/eyes-are-windows-to-your-health-2019/

For more details, kindly visit below.

Quick peek on causes and symptoms of Hypothyroidism.

Quick peek on causes and symptoms of Hypothyroidism.

Comments 0 Comment

Thyroid

When the thyroid does not produce and release enough thyroid hormone into your bloodstream, it is known as hypothyroidism. Your metabolism becomes slower as a result. Hypothyroidism, also known as an underactive thyroid, can make you feel exhausted, put on weight, and have trouble handling cold weather. Hormone replacement therapy is the primary method of treatment for hypothyroidism.

What is hypothyroidism?

When your body doesn’t create enough thyroid hormones, hypothyroidism develops. The thyroid is a little gland with a butterfly form that is located in front of the windpipe. Hormones that aid in energy regulation and use are released.

The actions of your digestive system and your heartbeat are among the processes that thyroid hormones assist regulate. The natural processes of your body slow down if you don’t have enough thyroid hormones.

Hypothyroidism, often known as an underactive thyroid, typically affects adults over 60 and is more prevalent in women than in males. After symptoms appear or during a regular blood test, it might be identified.

The term used to describe an early, mild version of the illness is subclinical hypothyroidism. It’s crucial to understand that treatment for hypothyroidism is regarded as straightforward, secure, and efficient if you have lately obtained a diagnosis.

The majority of treatments focus on adding synthetic hormones to your low levels of natural hormones. These hormones will take the place of those your body isn’t manufacturing on its own and assist in restoring normal bodily processes.

How common is hypothyroidism?

The condition of hypothyroidism is pretty typical. Nearly 5% of Americans between the ages of 12 and 60 suffer with hypothyroidism.

With age, the disease becomes increasingly prevalent. It strikes more commonly in people over 60. The prevalence of an underactive thyroid is higher in women. Actually, 1 in 8 women will experience thyroid problems.

Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism

The physical symptoms of hypothyroidism frequently range between individuals and might be challenging to pinpoint. The timing and severity of the signs and symptoms are also influenced by the condition’s severity.

Fatigue and weight increase are two early signs. Note that regardless of how well your thyroid is functioning, these both grow more prevalent as you age. As a result, you might not identify these changes as thyroid-related until additional symptoms manifest. For instance, these could include the scaly, rough, and dry skin and brittle nails linked to hypothyroidism.

The most typical hypothyroidism warning signs and symptoms are generally as follows:

  • fatigue
  • gaining weight
  • depression
  • constipation
  • being chilly
  • reduced perspiration
  • reduced heartbeat
  • increased cholesterol levels
  • arid skin
  • thinning, dry hair
  • a weakened memory
  • muscular tremor
  • stiffness, pains, and tightness in the muscles
  • joint discomfort and stiffness

The majority of persons experience a slow progression of symptoms over many years. The signs may be easier to spot when the thyroid slows down more and more. Naturally, many of these symptoms also increase in frequency as we age.

Consult your doctor if you think a thyroid issue is the cause of your symptoms. To find out if you have hypothyroidism, they can ask for a blood test.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism in adulthood

Research suggests that in addition to the most typical hypothyroidism symptoms, men may also experience erectile dysfunction.

Additional signs of hypothyroidism in women include:

Hypothyroidism can also manifest themselves while a woman is pregnant. Typically, hypothyroidism symptoms are consistent with other hypothyroidism patients.

Young individuals with hypothyroidism

Younger people are less likely to develop hypothyroidism, but it is still possible. Children with the syndrome may develop more slowly, while teenagers with it may have early puberty.

Congenital hypothyroidism, which refers to a lack of thyroid function at birth, is another possibility. Infants with hypothyroidism may exhibit the following signs:

  • more sleep than normal
  • constipation
  • difficulty with feeding
  • sluggish growth (if the condition is untreated)

Babies with hypothyroidism occasionally don’t exhibit any symptoms.

Severe signs of hypothyroidism

If hypothyroidism is not addressed, other symptoms could appear:

  • sensitive, swollen face
  • hoarseness
  • anaemia
  • decline in hearing

Rarely, severe hypothyroidism can cause myxedema coma, a life-threatening illness that needs immediate medical attention. Although the condition does not truly cause a coma, you could encounter:

  • fatigue
  • hypothermia
  • reduced blood pressure
  • minimal heartbeat

Causes of Hyperthyroidism

Both main and secondary causes can contribute to hypothyroidism. A disorder that directly affects the thyroid and makes it produce insufficient amounts of thyroid hormones is a key reason.

The pituitary gland’s malfunction, which prevents it from sending thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) to the thyroid to regulate thyroid hormones, is a secondary reason.

There are a lot more prevalent primary causes of hypothyroidism. The most typical of these root causes is Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune disorder. This inherited illness is also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (passed down through a family).

The thyroid is attacked and harmed by the body’s immune system in Hashimoto’s disease. As a result, the thyroid is unable to produce and release adequate thyroid hormone.

The following are some of the other main causes of hypothyroidism:

  • Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid).
  • hyperthyroidism treatment (radiation and surgical removal of the thyroid).
  • Iodine insufficiency refers to a lack of iodine in the body, which your thyroid needs to produce hormones.
  • Hereditary disorders (a medical condition passed down through your family).
  • Thyroiditis occasionally develops during a pregnancy (postpartum thyroiditis) or a viral disease.

Risk factors of hypothyroidism

The following elements can raise your risk of having hypothyroidism:

  • being a woman
  • 60 years of age or older
  • receiving radiation therapy for your chest or neck
  • being recently pregnant
  • having thyroid issues run in one’s family
  • possessing autoimmune disorders like Sjögren’s illness and type 1 diabetes

What happens if hypothyroidism is not treated?

If you do not receive treatment from a healthcare professional, hypothyroidism can develop into a serious and life-threatening medical disease. Your symptoms could worsen if you receive no treatment and could include:

  • Developing mental health issues.
  • having difficulty breathing
  • being unable to keep a healthy body temperature.
  • having cardiac issues
  • acquiring a goitre (enlargement of the thyroid gland).

Myxedema coma, a dangerous medical condition, is another possibility. When hypothyroidism is not treated, this may occur.

REFERENCES:

For more details, kindly visit below.

Important Note on Hyperthyroidism you need to know.

Important Note on Hyperthyroidism you need to know.

Comments 1 comment

Your thyroid develops and manufactures hormones that are involved in numerous bodily processes. Thyroid disease is characterised by the overproduction or underproduction of these critical hormones by your thyroid. Thyroid disease comes in a variety of forms, such as hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroiditis, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

What is Hyperthyroidism?

When the thyroid gland overproduces hormone, it results in hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid. Diarrhea, respiratory problems, and weariness are just a few of the consequences that may spread throughout the body.

The thyroid is a neck gland with a butterfly form. The body’s growth and metabolism are regulated by the hormones it creates and releases into the bloodstream. In the US, hyperthyroidism affects about 1 in 100 adults over the age of 12. People over 60 are the ones most prone to experience it.

Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, is distinct from hyperthyroidism. The terms “hyper” and “low” describe the amount of thyroid hormone in the body, respectively. Hyperthyroidism can have serious problems if left untreated. However, by lowering the synthesis of thyroid hormones, medicine can typically regulate it.

What causes hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism can be brought on by a number of circumstances. The most typical cause of hyperthyroidism is the autoimmune illness Graves’ disease. In Graves’ disease, your thyroid gland is attacked by antibodies produced by your immune system, which causes an excessive amount of hormone to be released.

Women experience Graves’ illness more frequently than males do. According to a 2011 research summary by Trusted Source, environmental circumstances do play a part in determining whether someone would acquire Graves’, but genetics account for the majority of the decision. Graves’ illness isn’t caused by a single gene deficiency, but rather by tiny mutations in a number of genes, according to studies of families and twins.

In order for your doctor to accurately assess your risk factors, you should let them know if any members of your family have been given a hyperthyroidism diagnosis.

Other causes of hyperthyroidism outside Graves’ disease include:

  • Excess iodine. Iodine is a crucial component of T4 and T3, and too much of it might temporarily increase the thyroid hormone’s production. Fish and dairy products are two foods that contain iodine. It can also be found in some drugs, including cough syrups, medical contrast dyes, and amiodarone (for heart arrhythmia).
  • Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid). Conditions known as thyroiditis cause the thyroid gland to enlarge and produce either an excessive amount or an insufficient amount of the hormone.
  • Benign nodules on the thyroid. On the thyroid gland, nodules, which are lumps, frequently form for unclear reasons. Although the majority of thyroid nodules are benign, some do produce excessive thyroid hormones. Nodules are sometimes known as adenomas or benign tumours.
  • Hazardous thyroid nodules (toxic adenoma). There are certain cancerous or malignant thyroid nodules. A nodule’s benignity or malignancy can be evaluated via ultrasound or a procedure known as fine needle aspiration tissue biopsy.
  • Testicular or ovarian cancer.
  • Blood has a lot of T4. Certain dietary supplements or excessive doses of the thyroid hormone drug levothyroxine can cause high levels of T4.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism

While certain physical signs of hyperthyroidism may be clear, others may be more subtle and first difficult to detect. Sometimes anxiety and hyperthyroidism are confused.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) lists the following as hallmark signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism:

It is possible for the thyroid gland to enlarge and develop a symmetrical or unilateral goitre. An enlarged gland is known as a goitre, and it is frequently identifiable as a lump or swelling near the base of the neck. Iodine deficiency is the most typical cause of a goitre.

Complications of hyperthyroidism

Depending on how well the body can adapt to the changes brought on by the extra thyroid hormones and how strictly a person adheres to their treatment plan, hyperthyroidism and accompanying symptoms can vary in severity. Possible complications from the condition are listed below.

Graves’ ophthalmopathy

Light sensitivity, pain or discomfort in the eye, and specific visual issues can all be brought on by Graves’ ophthalmopathy. A person’s eyes could also protrude.

Sunglasses and eye medicines can both aid with symptoms relief. In extreme circumstances, certain medications—such as steroids or immunosuppressive ones—can reduce the puffiness under the eyes.

A thyroid storm

A thyroid storm is a rare reaction that can happen following an illness, injury, or physical trauma like childbirth or surgery. If the person has undetected hyperthyroidism or problems managing the illness, it may also happen during pregnancy.

Emergency medical care is necessary for this potentially fatal reaction. Thyroid storm warning signs and symptoms include:

  • a pounding heart
  • acute fever
  • agitation
  • jaundice
  • vomiting
  • diarrhoea
  • dehydration
  • hallucinations

Treatment of hyperthyroidism

While some drugs focus on addressing thyroid hormone production, others treat the symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as cardiac issues.

Beta-blockers

While beta-blockers cannot cure hyperthyroidism, they can lessen the symptoms while waiting for other treatments to work. It can take a few weeks or months, though.

Anthyroid medications

Antithyroid medication prevents the thyroid gland from overproducing thyroid hormone. Methimazole is a typical medication that doctors advise.

As methimazole may have adverse effects on the foetus, a doctor may advise propylthiouracil during a patient’s first trimester if the patient is pregnant. Later in the pregnancy, women who are pregnant may switch to methimazole.

The American Thyroid Association estimates that after using antithyroid medication for a period of 12 to 18 months, 20 to 30 percent of Graves’ disease patients have symptom remission. Medication side effects may include:

  • allergy symptoms
  • decreased white blood cells, which raises the risk of infection
  • rarely, liver failure occurs.
  • Iodine-131 radioactive

Active thyroid cells are destroyed when radioactive iodine penetrates them. There is only localised destruction and no adverse impacts that are felt widely. The radioiodine contains a very tiny dosage of radioactivity that is safe to consume.

However, women who are pregnant or nursing should not receive radioiodine treatment. Following therapy, doctors advise against getting pregnant for 6 to 12 months.

REFERENCES:

For more details, kindly visit below.