Thyroid cancer, affecting up to one in 20 Britons, often takes years to diagnose due to its symptoms mirroring other conditions. A recent study by the University of Aberdeen, in collaboration with leading thyroid charities, discovered that it takes an average of 4.5 years for a thyroid condition to be diagnosed.
The research, which examined nearly 1,200 patients’ experiences, found that in almost two-thirds of cases, multiple appointments and worsening symptoms were necessary before a diagnosis was made. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, just in front of the windpipe.
It produces hormones that regulate heart rate, body temperature, and metabolism – the process of converting food into energy. These hormones, known as triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), can cause unpleasant and potentially serious problems if their levels are too high or too low.
An overactive thyroid can affect anyone, but it’s about 10 times more common in women than men, typically occurring between the ages of 20 and 40. The University of Aberdeen stated: “One in 20 people in the UK have a thyroid problem, with women six times more likely to suffer from the condition than men. Posing serious implications for the physical, mental and emotional life of those affected, thyroid patients are at greater risk of experiencing long-term sick leave and impairment of working ability.”
“The study gathered data on almost 1,200 patients’ experience from the onset of symptoms through diagnosis and treatment and beyond. In total, 95% of the respondents were women.”
“It found it takes an average of 4.5 years for a thyroid condition to be diagnosed, with this taking considerably longer for patients with hypothyroidism. In most cases (almost two thirds of respondents) it took multiple appointments and a worsening of the severity of symptoms before a diagnosis was made.”
“The symptoms of an underactive thyroid can often mimic those of other conditions and typically develop gradually, meaning they may go unnoticed for years, says the NHS. For instance, if you’re at an age where menopause is expected, you might mistake an underactive thyroid for the onset of menopause.”
Professor Alexandros Zangelidis said: “The evidence that emerges from this survey confirms that thyroid diseases have serious implications for the life of patients, with adverse and long-lasting consequences on their wellbeing and their ability to engage with and interact with social activities and work long after they get a diagnosis.”
Professor Catia Montagna added, “Patients, on average, do not feel they are being heard by the medical profession and do not feel empowered during their medical journey. Given that it affects one in 20 people in the population, its impact should be much more prominently reflected in the Scottish and UK Governments’ women’s health strategy.”
The symptoms of an underactive thyroid can vary, while an overactive thyroid can trigger a range of different signs. These are outlined by the NHS as follows: If you’re experiencing symptoms of either an underactive or overactive thyroid, it’s advised to arrange a consultation with your GP.
The signs of an underactive thyroid can include:
- Tiredness
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Being sensitive to the cold
- Dry skin and hair
- Muscle aches
The only method to confirm a thyroid issue is through a thyroid function test, which involves taking a blood sample to measure hormone levels. Treatment for thyroid issues typically involves medication.
An underactive thyroid is treated with daily hormone replacement tablets known as levothyroxine to boost thyroxine levels, whereas an overactive thyroid is generally treated with medicine that prevents your thyroid from producing excess hormones. Patients can find more information and support on the British Thyroid Foundation website.
Symptoms of an overactive thyroid
An overactive thyroid can trigger a variety of symptoms. These are listed by the NHS as including:
- Nervousness, anxiety and irritability
- Mood swings
- Difficulty sleeping
- Persistent tiredness and weakness
- Sensitivity to heat
- Swelling in your neck from an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre)
- An irregular and/or unusually fast heart rate (palpitations)
- Twitching or trembling
- Weight loss