Women Veterans: Have you experienced a significant shift in your weight, mood, energy, temperature tolerance, periods, or skin and hair? It may be your thyroid. About 60% of people with a thyroid condition are unaware, but it’s a common issue among women (especially after pregnancy or menopause).
The thyroid gland is a small organ at the front of your neck that produces hormones which play a big role in the way your body functions. The two main types of thyroid disease are:
Hypothyroidism: When your thyroid does not make enough thyroid hormones; also known as an underactive thyroid. This slows down many of your body’s functions, like your metabolism.
Hyperthyroidism: When your thyroid makes more thyroid hormone than your body needs; also known as overactive thyroid. These speeds up many bodily functions, like your metabolism and heart rate.
When your thyroid doesn’t work properly, it can impact your entire body, but proper medication or treatment can help. If you have a family history of thyroid disease, notice a mass or swollen neck, or experience significant changes in your mood, weight, energy, period, temperature tolerance, or hair and skin, it’s time to make an appointment.
Speak with your VA health care provider about your symptoms and start taking steps to improve the way you feel. Visit VA Women’s Health for more information or call 1-855-VA-WOMEN to speak to a real person and get connected to care.