The month of January is designated to recognize thyroid disorders — a condition that affects approximately 59 million individuals in the United States.

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, just above the collarbone. When a person has a thyroid condition, the body uses energy faster or slower than it should. When the gland is too active, a person is known to have hyperthyroidism; too slowly, the condition is known as hypothyroidism. A malfunctioning gland can affect almost every aspect of a person’s health, contributing to an increased risk for hair loss, heart disease, obesity, depression, muscle and joint pain, and even infertility.

There are a number of possible causes for either situation to occur. Simply stated, treatment is aimed at resetting the body’s metabolism to a normal level.

Let’s begin with hyperthyroidism that results from an over-production of thyroid hormones. This can result from Graves’ disease where the immune system attacks the gland, causing it to enlarge; subacute thyroiditis where the gland leaks excess hormones; pituitary gland malfunctions or cancerous growths within the thyroid gland which are less common; and benign tumors that secrete thyroid hormones. The hair and skin become extremely susceptible. With hyperthyroidism, extensive hair loss can occur. The skin can also become fragile and thin. New-onset panic attacks, fatigue, diarrhea and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome may be linked.

Conditions of hypothyroidism can be caused by such things as surgical removal of the gland, Hashimoto’s, exposure to excessive amounts of iodide such as can be found in over-the-counter sinus and cold medications, X-ray contrast dyes, amiodarone prescribed for cardiac conditions; and the use of lithium. Hair can become brittle, fall out easily and become coarse and dry. Skin might become thick, dry and scaly. Depression, fatigue and insomnia are relatively common. Constipation that rarely existed prior may also be an issue.

Cholesterol levels may rise and might not respond to diet modification, cholesterol-lowering medication or a program of exercise.

A person may unsuccessfully step up physical activity with a thyroid condition in an attempt to keep weight under control. Unexplained modifications — despite dietary changes — may be attributed to a thyroid condition, perhaps even one that has yet to be diagnosed by a physician.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above and have not had your thyroid checked by your physician, be sure to have him or her include it during your next visit. You may be glad you did.

Readers who are interested in learning more can order my Health Report “Thyroid Disorders” by sending a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and a $2 US check or money order to my attention at PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title when writing or click on the “Health Report and Book Order Form” category in the gray bar on my home page.