Thyroid Testing The American Thyroid Association (ATA) recommends that all adults aged 35 and older undergo thyroid testing every five years. A thyroid problem is not always obvious; many symptoms are non-specific and may be attributed to aging. As a result, thyroid disorders are grossly underdiagnosed. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in front of the windpipe at the base of the throat. Because the thyroid gland influences the body’s metabolism, such things as body temperature, heart rate, muscle strength, and mood can be affected. As many as 5 million Americans have an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) that can cause fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold temperatures, dry skin, hair loss, depression, constipation and swelling. In addition, 50 percent of people with mild thyroid failure have elevated cholesterol levels. Women are 10 times more likely to suffer from hypothyroidism than men, which translates to an estimated 8-10 percent of women over age 50. Although not nearly as common in older people, an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) is a potentially dangerous problem that can cause fatigue, weight loss, sensitivity to heat, sweating, shaking, nervousness, diarrhea, and insomnia. If untreated, hyperthyroidism can cause heart rhythm irregularities and osteoporosis. Because the initial symptoms are subtle, particularly in older people, only half the cases of hypothyroidism are diagnosed in their early stages. A simple test can detect whether or not your thyroid is functioning properly, and long-established treatments can successfully manage a thyroid that is sluggish or hyperactive. The test is easy, inexpensive and, in addition to checking thyroid function every five years, should be part of the blood work done when an elevated cholesterol level is detceted.
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