Thyroid gland: 5 myths

Myths about the thyroid gland

• Myth #1. With thyroid diseases it is forbidden to sunbathe, receive any physiotherapeutic treatment, massage and the like

These representations have no scientific justification.

• Myth #2. In diseases of the thyroid gland, iodine is contraindicated

In relation to iodine, thyroid gland diseases vary greatly. As a healthy person, and patients with most diseases of the thyroid gland adequate intake of iodine is necessary.

• Myth #3. A lump in the throat is a sure sign of a thyroid gland

Discomfort in the neck is most often associated with nervous tension.

• Myth #4. All my health problems are from the thyroid gland

Indeed, the work of almost all organs and all kinds of metabolism depends on thyroid hormones, and thyroid dysfunction can lead to a wide variety of nonspecific complaints (from hair loss to infertility).

• Myth #5. The level of antibodies to thyroid tissue reflects the severity of the disease and requires regular monitoring during treatment

Despite the fact that elevated levels of antibodies to the thyroid gland often indicate its autoimmune lesion, about 15-20% of healthy individuals are carriers of them and do not suffer from thyroid dysfunction.