Frequently Asked Questions
The thyroid gland affects many vital functions in the body, from metabolic rate to hormone balance. On this page, you can find answers to frequently asked questions about thyroid diseases, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, and thyroid treatment methods. Our content, compiled with expert opinions and up-to-date medical information, will help you maintain your thyroid health and understand the right treatment options.
01. Do Thyroid Diseases cause Weight Gain?
Firstly, obesity is a serious health problem and the causes are often not fully understood. Slow functioning of the thyroid gland can cause weight gain, but this is not a common cause of obesity. If the thyroid gland is underactive, metabolism slows down and this can lead to weight gain. However, it is recommended that everyone with weight problems have their thyroid hormones checked before proceeding to further investigations.
02. Does goiter cause weight gain?
Goitre is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, but goitre alone does not cause weight gain. If a goitre is associated with a slow functioning thyroid gland, then weight gain is likely. However, it should be remembered that a small proportion of obesity is due to thyroid problems.
03. Why is goiter more common in the Black Sea Region?
The main reason why goitre is common in the Black Sea region is that people living in mountainous regions have soil and water resources that are insufficient in terms of iodine. When there is insufficient iodine intake, the thyroid gland starts to grow in order to increase hormone production and this leads to goitre.
04. Do Thyroid Drugs Make You Gain Weight?
Thyroid medication does not cause weight gain, on the contrary, it prevents unnecessary weight gain by regulating metabolism. It is important that people with thyroid problems use the medication recommended by their doctor. Leaving the medication with the concern of weight gain can lead to more serious problems.
05. Are There Foods That Eat Goiter?
Yes, some foods can negatively affect the production of thyroid hormones by absorbing iodine from the body. These foods are called ‘goitrogen’ or ‘iodine-loving’ foods. Kale is the most notable of such foods. In addition, foods such as cabbage, radish, broccoli can also cause goitre when consumed excessively.
06. What is Thyroid Inflammation?
Thyroid inflammation is a self-inflammation of the body and does not occur as a result of a microbial infection. This condition, called thyroiditis, is a disease that can take time to treat and is usually treated with different methods, not antibiotics. Thyroid inflammation can lead to a decrease in thyroid hormones over time, so regular follow-up is important.
07. Are Thyroid Diseases Genetic?
It is thought that thyroid diseases may be genetic. Thyroid diseases may be seen in the family due to iodine deficiency. However, thyroid problems may also develop in individuals without thyroid disease in the family. This shows that genetic predisposition cannot completely explain thyroid diseases.
08. Why are thyroid diseases more common in women?
Thyroid diseases are three times more common in women than in men. Although this is thought to be related to the female hormones oestrogen and progesterone, no definite cause is known.
09. What is the Relationship Between Thyroid Diseases and Salt?
The thyroid gland needs iodine to function properly. Without enough iodine, the thyroid gland cannot produce enough hormones. Therefore, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends adding iodine to salt. Iodised salt from the supermarket is important for thyroid health, but it should not be exposed to the sun because iodine can volatilise. Also, people with overactive thyroid (hyperthyroid patients) should use non-iodised salt.
10. Does Every Thyroid Disease Affect Eyes?
Thyroid diseases other than Graves' disease do not affect the eyes. Eye problems are specific to Graves' disease, but it should be remembered that not all enlargement of the eyes may be related to Graves' disease. If eye problems are seen, other possible causes should be investigated.