January marks Thyroid Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of a small but significant gland in the body. The thyroid, located in the neck, produces hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy levels.
“The thyroid is a gland located in the neck that produces hormones, such as T3 and T4, which help control metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy levels,” said OCH’s Tessa Gingerich, PA, with the OCH Goodman Family Clinic.
“Because thyroid hormones influence so many systems in the body, even minor imbalances can affect how you feel day to day.”
The thyroid plays a key role in how the body uses energy. Its function affects metabolism as well as other essential processes like heart rate and overall bodily function.
“When the thyroid isn’t functioning properly, it can contribute to a wide range of medical conditions,” Gingerich added. “That’s why thyroid health plays such a large role in overall wellness.”
Common disorders include hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Hypothyroidism symptoms may include fatigue or low energy, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, dry skin or hair thinning, and depression or brain fog. Hyperthyroidism symptoms often involve weight loss, rapid or irregular heartbeat, anxiety or irritability, trouble sleeping and heat intolerance.
Thyroid disease is usually diagnosed using blood tests that check hormone levels along with reviewing symptoms and conducting a physical exam of the neck.
“Thyroid disease is diagnosed primarily through blood tests such as TSH, or thyroid-stimulating hormone, along with a review of symptoms and a physical exam of the neck and thyroid gland,” Gingerich explained.
Lab results guide healthcare providers on how well the thyroid functions.
“In hypothyroidism we typically see a high TSH with a low T4,” said Gingerich. “With hyperthyroidism TSH is usually low while T3 and T4 levels are high. Additional testing or imaging may also be needed depending on the situation.”
While anyone can develop thyroid disorders—especially women—those with family history of thyroid disease or autoimmune conditions are at higher risk. Unexplained fatigue or changes in weight could also signal potential issues.
“If you’re experiencing symptoms have a family history of thyroid disease or are simply curious about your thyroid health it’s a good idea to schedule a wellness exam,” Gingerich advised.
Millions live with undiagnosed thyroid diseases nationwide. Raising awareness aims to promote early testing for better long-term outcomes.
“Your thyroid gland plays a huge role in your overall healthcare,” Gingerich said. “Getting it properly checked can help ensure you’re on the right path toward a healthy lifestyle.”
Appointments with OCH providers are available through their website at https://ochonline.net/locations.
