Small gland, big job: Let’s talk thyroid health
By Dr. Glen Davis, Chief Medical Officer
Your thyroid is a small gland in the front of your neck, but it has a big job. It helps control how your body uses energy. This affects how fast your heart beats, how warm you feel and how your body grows and stays healthy.
When your thyroid works the right way, your body feels balanced. But when it does not work well, it can make you feel tired, cold, nervous or sick. Many people do not know they have a thyroid problem, which is why learning about it is important.
There are two common thyroid problems: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism means your thyroid is too slow. It does not make enough hormones. This can make you feel tired, cold or cause weight gain. Hyperthyroidism means your thyroid is too fast. It makes too many hormones. This can make you feel nervous, hot or cause weight loss. Both problems can be treated with help from a doctor.
Doctors usually check your thyroid with a simple blood test. They may also ask questions about how you feel and gently check your neck. These tests help find problems early.
You can also take steps to make sure your thyroid stays healthy:
- Eat healthy foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains
- Stay active and move your body every day
- Get enough sleep
- Drink plenty of water
- See your doctor for regular checkups
Make sure to listen to your body. If you feel very tired, notice weight changes or feel too hot or too cold, talk to your doctor. Your body may be telling you something important.
Learning about thyroid health is a great first step. With the right care and information, you can help your body stay strong and healthy. As a member of Aetna Better Health® of Illinois, you have access to tools and information to help you learn about thyroid health.
Our Health and Wellness Library has useful tips to help you stay healthy. Learn more with easy-to-read guides meant to help you use your plan and take care of yourself. Members can also explore Krames Online. It is a website that helps you learn about your health and that you can search for answers anytime, day or night. With over 4,000 topics, Krames Online helps you understand health questions and make better choices.
At Aetna Better Health® of Illinois, we’re here to help you through your questions. If you feel like you are having thyroid issues, call Member Services at 1-866-329-4701 (TTY:711) to set up an appointment. Thyroid Awareness Month helps us remember to look after our bodies, learn new things and get help when we need it.