Bangalore, India — A growing number of Indians are unknowingly living with thyroid disorders, misattributing symptoms such as fatigue, weight changes, hair thinning, and anxiety to lifestyle stress or aging. Yet, experts warn that these could be early signs of thyroid dysfunction—an often silent but highly treatable condition.
The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck, plays a central role in regulating metabolism, mood, heart function, and other essential systems. According to recent estimates, over 45 million Indians are affected by thyroid-related illnesses, a statistic that continues to rise.
In an interview with Firstpost, Dr. Abhijit Bhograj, Consultant Endocrinologist at Manipal Hospital Hebbal, shed light on the spectrum of thyroid conditions, emphasizing the importance of early detection and lifestyle awareness.
Common Yet Overlooked
“The most common thyroid disorders are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism,” explained Dr. Bhograj. “Hypothyroidism, where the gland underperforms, is more prevalent in India. It often presents with symptoms like fatigue, constipation, dry skin, irregular menstrual cycles, and hair thinning.”
Hyperthyroidism, the result of excessive thyroid hormone production, can lead to unintentional weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, and heat intolerance.
Other notable conditions include autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease, as well as structural abnormalities like goiter and thyroid nodules.
Hair thinning—often one of the early signs of thyroid dysfunction—can also mislead individuals into seeking cosmetic treatments without addressing the root cause. Dr. Bhograj notes that in some patients exploring hair restoration options, thyroid dysfunction is only discovered during pre-surgical evaluations. Understanding the hair transplant before and after journey often begins with ensuring hormonal health is in check, as imbalances can hinder hair transplant recovery.
The Importance of Vigilance
Many early symptoms—such as low energy, mood swings, or skin changes—are frequently dismissed. “We see patients delay seeking help because these signs mimic everyday stress,” said Dr. Bhograj. In children, indicators such as delayed puberty or stunted growth warrant thorough evaluation.
Women planning pregnancies, individuals with a family history of thyroid or autoimmune disorders, and those with conditions like type 1 diabetes or vitiligo are particularly encouraged to undergo routine screening.
Prevention and Management
Thanks to national programs such as the iodine deficiency control initiative launched in 1984, the incidence of certain thyroid disorders has declined. However, Dr. Bhograj stresses that a balanced diet remains essential.
“Iodized salt, dairy, seafood, and leafy vegetables rich in selenium, zinc, and iron can support thyroid health,” he said. “Avoid extreme diets or overconsumption of raw cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and cauliflower, which may inhibit iodine absorption.”
The good news? Thyroid disorders are highly manageable if caught early. A simple blood test to assess hormone levels, coupled with an ultrasound when necessary, can guide effective treatment. Most patients can lead normal lives with regular medication.
Thyroid and Mental Health
Beyond physical health, thyroid imbalances can significantly impact mental well-being. Hypothyroidism is linked to depression and cognitive issues, while hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety and insomnia. Treating these imbalances often results in marked psychological improvement.
Progress in Thyroid Cancer Treatment
Although thyroid cancer constitutes just 1–2% of all cancers in India, it is among the most treatable. “New molecular diagnostic tools are helping us better assess thyroid nodules and reduce unnecessary surgeries,” said Dr. Bhograj. Coupled with advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgery, and targeted therapies, early-stage thyroid cancers now boast some of the highest survival rates.
Bottom Line: Subtle symptoms like hair loss or fatigue shouldn’t be ignored. They could be more than cosmetic or stress-related concerns—they might point to your thyroid. Routine screenings and awareness can make a crucial difference in both diagnosis and recovery.
Related Topics:
- How Much Does It Cost to Lower Hairline?
- How Long Does Hairline Surgery Last?
- How Do Bosley Hair Transplants Work?
