Iodine is an essential mineral which thyroid gland uses to make thyroid hormones, which helps to control growth, repair damaged cells and support a healthy metabolism. Unfortunately, a lot of people worldwide are the victim of iodine deficiency. Maybe you are among them and if you are not using iodized salt, follow a vegetarian diet or pregnant you are more prone to be iodine deficiency. To know each bit about this deficiency keep reading.
Symptoms:
To track the deficiency of iodine is not a difficult task as it manifests a vast number of signs and symptoms which may vary according to age. In adults, it causes following symptoms.
- Swollen neck
- Fatigue, not the usual one as after a hectic day but low energy and less stamina of working.
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Constipation
- Dry skin. If no other symptom is found than dry skin problem can be resolved by consulting top dermatologist of Lahore and other main cities via Marham.pk.
- Weight gain
- Puffy face
- Muscle weakness, pain or stiffness in muscles or joints.
- Elevated blood cholesterol levels even when you are not taking high-fat food
- Slowed heart rate
- Thinning hair and uncontrolled hair loss
- Depression
- Poor memory
- Heavier period in menstruating women
Symptoms of Iodine Deficiency in Infants:
In infants, hypothyroidism comes with slightly different symptoms. You can identify iodine deficient child if he has following symptoms:
- Frequent choking
- Large or swollen tongue
- Puffy face
- Constipation
- Poor muscle tone
- Extreme sleepiness
Symptoms of Iodine Deficiency in Children and Teens:
In children and teens, all above-mentioned signs and symptoms are noted with some others like,
- Poor growth
- Delayed tooth development
- Delayed puberty
- Poor mental development
Brain-related Effects of Iodine Deficiency:
Iodine deficiency is not limited to affect physically but your brain especially cognitive functions also affected negatively. Some cognitive behavior which interrupted by iodine deficiency is following:
- Low IQ
- Trouble learning
- Mental disabilities
You can find and consult with the best neurologist in Karachi, Lahore and other main cities of Pakistan via Marham.pk.
Treatment:
Treatment of iodine deficiency usually not needed medication, only little dietary changes like following, will enough to resolve the problem.
- Iodine fortified salt
- Diet rich in iodine like seafood
- Iodine supplementation
Iodine is needed for all bodily functions, so it’s better to keep it in the required amount, before the appearance of deficiency symptoms and related diseases.