An enlarged thyroid gland is one of the most common pathologies, which leads to the fact that the processes associated with metabolism, the nervous system are disrupted in the human body, and the heart malfunctions. The enlargement of the thyroid gland is insidious because at the initial stage of development, organ changes remain unnoticed.
It is worth considering that an increase in the thyroid gland does not always carry a malignant character, it all depends on the underlying reasons that have become the culprits of its change. Absolutely any change in an organ in medical practice is usually called a goiter, in this condition it becomes visible to the naked eye and is characterized by a bulge in the neck.
Currently, there are three stages that make it possible to trace the enlargement of the gland: first degree, second and third. Each degree has its own characteristics of manifestation, for example, in the first degree the organ does not change in any way and remains in the same state, in the second, there is a fraction of a slight increase that does not deform the neck, and in the third, the pathological process deforms the bends of the neck.
The anatomical structure of the thyroid gland has two lobes and a jumper between them, there are often cases when additional lobes can be found. In a normal state, the right and left lobes have the same appearance and structure. However, it very often happens that only the right lobe or only the left one can increase, in which case the specialist may suspect the development of an organ tumor. To determine the normal size of the lobe, the ultrasound method is used, which helps to identify the slightest change and development of the pathological process.
For normal functioning of the thyroid gland, a person must receive iodine in sufficient quantities. The daily intake for a person is about two hundred micrograms of iodine with food, but during pregnancy the need increases slightly and is already two hundred and fifty micrograms.
Many experts recommend eating about three grams of iodized salt, this amount is enough to maintain the normal functioning of the organ. With a lack of iodine in the body, experts recommend eating more food in which it is contained in large quantities. Useful products are: persimmon, seaweed, fish, as well as in case of insufficient iodine content in the body, it is not recommended to abuse white cabbage, as it interferes with its normal absorption.
It is worth noting that little or no interest in sex can be a side effect of thyroid disease. Low hormone levels can reduce libido, but the overall effect of other hypothyroid symptoms – lack of energy, body aches – can also play a role in this issue.
Longer menstrual periods with heavy flow and pain can be a sign of hypothyroidism when not enough hormones are produced. The periods between periods may be shorter.
In hyperthyroidism, high TH levels cause menstrual irregularities of various kinds. Periods are shorter or longer, and menstruation may be negligible. Doctors have found a strong relationship between irregular cycles and thyroid problems. And if menstruation is very difficult, then anemia also joins.
Sexual function with moderate hyperthyroidism may not suffer, and libido may even increase. However, women develop menstrual irregularities and the risk of miscarriage , while men develop erectile dysfunction and breast swelling.
Almost 40% of women with hypothyroidism have difficulty reaching orgasm, and the same number of men have reduced erection ability.
For problems in the sexual sphere, consultation and specialist help is needed. In no case should you self-medicate, and even more so without a doctor’s recommendation to use drugs to enhance potency and improve libido.