Thyroid disease is very common, particularly in women over the age of 50. Sometimes difficult to diagnose, thyroid disease affects almost every aspect of health. The thyroid gland, which is located in the neck, controls how the body uses energy and is involved in setting the body’s metabolism.

If the thyroid gland is not active enough (hypothyroid), people may experience symptoms of weight gain, tiredness, muscle and joint pain, and sensitivity to cold temperatures. In addition, hypothyroid sufferers may have increased forgetfulness, slowed comprehension, or depressed feelings. These symptoms typically happen very gradually which can mistakenly be attributed to the aging process.

On the other hand, if the thyroid is too active (hyperthyroid), people may experience totally different symptoms including a fast heart beat, sudden weight loss, or the inability to tolerate high temperatures. They may also feel nervous or irritable. Thyroid problems are easily treated once diagnosed. However, when left untreated it can contribute to heart disease, depression, obesity, infertility and birth defects. Testing for thyroid function is a simple blood test.

The TSH (thyroid) test will be offered at the Community Health Fair for a reduced rate of $15.

If you are experiencing some of these symptoms or would like to monitor an existing thyroid problem, consider stopping by Sidney Health Center’s Laboratory booth for this simple non-fasting test.