Thyroid Disorders May Present as Menstrual Irregularities
Q: My throat swells at the end of every month. The doctor put me on the pill to stop my periods. So it calmed down a bit, but now it’s getting worse.
– By Lisa Lock, female, age 47.
Reply:
Your problem appears to be related to your periods. Sounds like premenopausal symptom, but it may be thyroid!
You need to get screened for any thyroid disturbance in your body.
Women in your age group are vulnerable to thyroid imbalances. Very commonly, the symptoms caused by thyroid imbalances around this age are attributed to menopause (or pre-menopausal). The thyroid gland is left untreated.
So it is suggested that every woman, around this age group, be annually screened for thyroid problems.
Thyroid is Connected With Monthly Cycles
The activities of the thyroid gland are very closely related to female reproductive cycle. This can be observed right from puberty. For instance, girls with underactive thyroid do not show proper signs of puberty.
Around 45-50 years of age, there are some hormonal fluctuations in the female body, as it prepares for menopause. Thyroid gland is also affected. It usually stabilizes on its own.
Sometimes, thyroid gland gets disturbed. It may become hyper or hypo active, that is either overactive or under active.
In such cases, medications are required to correct it.
Observe carefully to note any other symptom that you may be having?
Other Symptoms Suggestive of Thyroid Disturbance
- Recent weight gain or loss
- Thinning of hair
- Intolerance to heat and cold
- Fatigue and weakness all the time
- Dry skin
- Sleep disturbances
- Frequent mood swings
- Swelling or puffiness elsewhere in the body
- Swelling or stiffness in the joints
You may talk to your doctor about getting screened for thyroid.
Take Care,
Buddy M.D.
