Spring drowsiness, lack of energy, and weight quietly growing? Don't classify it as' spring fatigue, season fatigue '! These discomforts may be a "distress signal" from the thyroid gland. Spring is a period of high incidence and exposure for thyroid dysfunction, characterized by significant temperature fluctuations and the recovery of all living things, leading to adjustments in human metabolism. Problems such as hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and thyroid nodules may manifest or worsen during this time. Dr. Zhang Xiuying, Chief Physician of the Endocrinology Department at Peking University People's Hospital, teaches everyone how to self check thyroid health in spring, helping you avoid misunderstandings and live a peaceful spring. In spring, the thyroid gland is more likely to "alarm". The thyroid gland is the "metabolic switch" of the human body, responsible for secreting thyroid hormones and regulating metabolic balance. In spring, the temperature fluctuates between cold and hot, causing fluctuations in human metabolism and changes in the demand for thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland, which was originally slightly abnormal, can become overloaded and symptoms are more likely to be detected. Hyperthyroidism (abbreviated as hyperthyroidism) and hypothyroidism (abbreviated as hypothyroidism) both belong to thyroid dysfunction. Experts remind that the symptoms of hypothyroidism are similar to the common "spring fatigue" and "seasonal fatigue" in spring, and are most easily overlooked. If the symptoms persist for more than two weeks and there is no clear cause, such as a cold, overwork, etc., one should be alert to thyroid abnormalities. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism vs. hypothyroidism can be self examined. The contrast between hyperthyroidism (rapid metabolism) and hypothyroidism (slow metabolism) is obvious, and professional instruments are not required. Self examination can be combined with the following symptom manifestations. However, self-examination cannot replace professional diagnosis. If two or more symptoms occur simultaneously, it is recommended to seek medical examination in a timely manner. Hyperthyroidism is characterized by rapid metabolism and excessive energy consumption. In spring, the physical sensation is manifested as not being afraid of cold, being afraid of heat, and sweating with slight activity; Vigorous, insomnia, and easily irritable; Eating too much leads to weight loss; Moist and sweaty skin, with fine and soft hair that is prone to shedding; Symptoms such as palpitations and slight trembling of fingers may also occur. Hypothyroidism belongs to slow metabolism and insufficient energy consumption. In spring, the body feels more afraid of cold than ordinary people, with hands and feet being cold all year round; Sleepiness, laziness, and decreased memory; Eating less, but inexplicably gaining weight or experiencing edema; Dry skin, sparse hair, especially prone to shedding on the outer side of the eyebrows; In addition, there may be symptoms such as constipation, mental fatigue, and low mood. Warning! These people are most susceptible to thyroid abnormalities, which are not a random occurrence. The following six groups of people have a higher risk of developing the disease. It is important to be vigilant in the spring and seek medical attention promptly if discomfort occurs. The fluctuation of estrogen in women of childbearing age, pregnancy, and menopause affects the thyroid gland, and during the spring metabolic adjustment period, the risk of disease is higher. Individuals with a family history of thyroid disease have a significant genetic predisposition, with a 2-3 times higher probability of developing the disease compared to the general population. Long term high pressure, staying up late, and high emotional fluctuations can lead to strong liver fire in spring, coupled with disrupted sleep and mood, which can interfere with thyroid hormone secretion. Individuals with abnormal iodine intake who suffer from iodine deficiency or excessive iodine supplementation are prone to thyroid problems, and improper supplementation in spring can further increase the burden. Long term exposure to radiation can damage thyroid cells and increase the risk of abnormalities and nodule malignancy. The thyroid function of middle-aged and elderly people over 50 years old declines with age, and hypothyroidism symptoms are easily mistaken for seasonal fatigue. What tests should be done to suspect abnormalities? Suspected thyroid problems, referred to endocrinology department. The main examinations are divided into two categories: blood test, thyroid function test, which is the core diagnostic indicator, and thyroid function test, which can preliminarily determine hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism; Autoimmune diseases need to be screened, and tests for thyroid function and thyroid related antibodies can be performed. Ultrasound examination visualizes the morphology, nodules, and enlargement of the thyroid gland to preliminarily determine whether there is thyroid enlargement or reduction, thyroid blood flow signals, and whether the nodules are benign or malignant. If there is suspicion of hyperthyroidism or nodules having autonomous function, thyroid nuclide scanning can be added; If the nature of the nodule is unclear, further examinations such as fine needle aspiration biopsy may be necessary. Precautions for examination: Generally, fasting is not necessary for Jia Gong blood test, just follow the doctor's advice; Check the previous day's light diet and avoid high iodine/tobacco, alcohol, and tea; Avoid staying up late, intense exercise, and emotional fluctuations; Medication/health supplements users need to inform their doctors in advance; Loose clothing, those who get dizzy from needles need to be accompanied by family members. Strictly control medication and diet for patients with hypothyroidism, and adjust nursing care according to medical advice in spring to avoid worsening symptoms. Long term use of levothyroxine sodium tablets and other medications may lead to an increase in the body's metabolism in spring, which may increase the demand for thyroid hormones. When symptoms worsen, timely follow-up of thyroid function is necessary, and the dosage should be adjusted by a doctor. Do not self medicate or reduce medication. Balanced and diversified diet, normal consumption of iodized salt without the need for additional supplements; Supplement more high-quality protein and vitamins, avoid raw, cold, greasy, and spicy foods. Moderate exercise such as walking and Tai Chi can promote metabolism and alleviate symptoms. Don't forget to regularly monitor thyroid nodules. The detection rate of thyroid nodules is high, with over 90% being benign. Spring nursing focuses on regular monitoring, scientific protection, and adapting to seasonal changes. Daily nursing should pay attention to changes in Jia Gong and conduct regular self examinations; Keep your neck warm and avoid getting cold or stimulated; Balanced iodine intake, quitting smoking and drinking, maintaining a regular daily routine, and avoiding long-term anxiety; Avoid frequent pressure on the neck to reduce nodule irritation. Monitoring recommendation for benign nodules (<1cm, asymptomatic, normal thyroid function): Follow up ultrasound once a year; If the nodule is ≥ 1cm or there are compression symptoms, ultrasound and thyroid function should be rechecked every 6 to 12 months; Suspected malignant nodules can be obtained through biopsy. For benign nodules, follow-up examinations should be conducted every 3 to 6 months. For malignant nodules, follow medical advice for surgery and postoperative monitoring; High risk individuals (family history of cancer, history of radiation exposure) should have ultrasound examinations every 3 to 6 months and regular check ups for thyroid function and calcitonin levels. The four common misconceptions about the thyroid gland are: spring drowsiness, weight gain, and seasonal fatigue. However, this may not necessarily be the case. These manifestations are likely signals of hypothyroidism. If they persist for more than two weeks without a clear cause, do not ignore them easily. It is recommended to promptly investigate thyroid problems. Misconception 2: Getting hypothyroidism requires a large amount of iodine supplementation and not necessary. Iodine is a raw material for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, but excessive iodine supplementation can increase the burden on the thyroid gland and trigger other problems. Daily consumption of iodized salt and moderate intake of iodine containing foods are sufficient, without the need for deliberate excessive supplementation. Misconception: If symptoms worsen in spring, you can increase the dosage on your own. Wrong! Self medication can easily lead to drug-induced hyperthyroidism, causing problems such as palpitations, fear of heat, and sudden weight loss, with a higher risk. The correct approach is to have regular check ups and have the doctor adjust the dosage based on the results of the thyroid test. Misconception 4: The larger the thyroid nodule, the more likely it is to become malignant. Eating food to eliminate the nodule is not accurate. The malignancy of nodules is not related to size, but mainly depends on features such as morphology, boundaries, and calcification; At present, there is no food that can eliminate thyroid nodules. Blindly supplementing may worsen the condition, and regular monitoring is the most reliable way. (New Society)