Are you sceptical about whether or not your workplace needs a wellness program in place?
Here’s how regular health assessments as part of wellness checks can help your employees live healthier lives.
Of the many vital organs in our body, one can simply not understate the value of the thyroid and its impact on our overall well-being. This body organ is tasked with releasing multiple hormones, all of which control our metabolism – the process by which the food we eat is broken down to release energy. A slight disturbance in thyroid functioning can have severe consequences on a person’s health, causing them to feel drained of all energy, lethargic and unable to perform the most mundane of everyday tasks. If you’ve been experiencing a somewhat similar situation, you must visit a professional and get yourself tested without delay.
What Is The Thyroid Gland?
The thyroid gland is butterfly-shaped and located in the neck’s lower front. It is made up of two lobes which are joined by a tissue called the isthmus. The primary function of the thyroid gland is to take iodine from the food we eat and convert it into thyroid hormones – thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). The thyroid gland also secretes a hormone called calcitonin, which helps regulate calcium levels in our blood. Together these hormones are responsible for
- Regulation of body temperature
- Heart rate
- Breathing
- Digestion
- Muscle strength
- Weight
- Menstrual cycles
- Cholesterol levels
Malfunctioning Of the Thyroid Gland
Hyperthyroidism: This is a condition characterized by overactivity of the thyroid gland resulting in excessive production of thyroid hormones. This can lead to issues like weight loss, increased appetite, anxiety, irritability, tremors, irregular heartbeat, heat intolerance etc.
Hypothyroidism: This is the opposite of hyperthyroidism and is characterized by underactivity of the thyroid gland, leading to decreased production of thyroid hormones. This can trigger fatigue, weight gain, constipation, cold intolerance, muscle weakness etc.
What Causes Thyroid Malfunctioning?
Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys healthy tissues by mistake. Hashimoto’s and Graves’ diseases are two common autoimmune diseases that can lead to thyroid problems. Hashimoto’s disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, while Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.
Other causes: Other than autoimmune diseases, many other conditions can lead to thyroid problems. These include:
- Infections
- Inflammation
- Benign or malignant tumours
- Congenital disabilities
Impact of Thyroid Disease on Overall Health
Thyroid problems can significantly impact a person’s overall health and well-being. It can cause many symptoms that can make everyday life very difficult. In some cases, it can also lead to other serious health complications if not diagnosed and treated in time. Some of the ways in which thyroid disease can impact health are:
Heart health: Hyperthyroidism can increase the risk of heart failure, while hypothyroidism can increase the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries).
Mental health: Thyroid disease has also been linked to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and even psychosis.
Fertility: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can affect fertility. Hyperthyroidism can cause premature ovulation, while hypothyroidism can interfere with the menstrual cycle and make it difficult to conceive.
Bone health: Thyroid disease can also lead to problems with bone health. Hypothyroidism can cause osteoporosis, while hyperthyroidism can lead to fragile bones.
Allow Cambiati Wellness to ensure your well-being and that of your loved ones
If you are located in the Danville region and are searching for a reliable organization to help you establish a wellness program at your workplace, contact us at 925-280-4442 or visit our website here. Our team of trained professionals have years of experience in recognizing the unique needs of a workplace and can develop plans that help create a sense of security and health.
