Worldwide, two billion people suffer from deficiency of IodineAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO). “It is more prevalent in poor countries where individuals may not have adequate access to nutritious food. But it can also affect people in industrialized countries who do not eat well or whose systems do not properly absorb iodine. handle.Pregnant women need more iodine than any other group, otherwise they may develop lossDr Ashok Varshini Panga, Corporate Pathologist, Apollo Diagnostics said.
What symptoms indicate iodine deficiency?
Symptoms and signs of iodine deficiency include:
*Goiter, often referred to as a noticeable lump, can develop on your neck as a result of inflammation of the thyroid glands in the neck.
*low thyroid hormone levels (Hypothyroidism) – Hypothyroidism often results in symptoms such as:
*Increased sensitivity to cold due to fatigue
*Constipation
*dry skin
*Muscle weakness and weight gain
*Increased blood cholesterol level
*pain or stiffness in muscles and joints
*Sadness, receding hairline, and decreased heart rate
*Heavier periods than usual for menstruating women
*a weak memory
Pregnant women with low thyroid hormone levels are more likely to have a baby with birth abnormalities (Representational) (source: Pixabay)
Iodine deficiency diseases
Iodine deficiency can lead to severe hypothyroidism if left untreated. Possible complications include:
*Heart disease and related conditions, such as heart failure and enlarged heart
*Peripheral neuropathy, or damage to the body’s peripheral nerves, depression, and cognitive decline
*Pregnant women with low thyroid hormone levels are more likely to have children with birth abnormalities, Dr Varshini Panga said. ,deficiency of Iodine There can be a number of problems related to pregnancy, including:
– Premature birth, stillbirth and miscarriage
– Congenital defects in babies
Iodine deficiency can lead to cretinism in extreme situations.
How can iodine deficiency be detected?
If your doctor thinks you may have an iodine deficiency, they will often perform one of four tests to determine your iodine levels:
Urine Test: The easiest and quickest test is the urine test. Results can be obtained within a few minutes, although it is not as accurate as some other iodine tests.
Iodine levels in the body can be measured using a blood test, which is quick and reliable. Unlike a urine test, it takes longer to get the result.
Iodine patch test: An iodine patch test involves applying an iodine patch to your skin and monitoring it for 24 hours. People who do not have iodine deficiency notice that the patch disappears after 24 hours. If there is a deficiency, iodine will be rapidly absorbed into the skin. “Despite not being the most accurate test available, it is inexpensive and doesn’t last long,” said Dr Varshini Panga.
Loading test: Tests that detect the excretion of iodine in the urine over a 24-hour period include iodine loading tests.
Iodine deficiency treatment
best way to treat a deficiency of Iodine With a balanced diet. If your diet is not providing enough iodine on its own, you may want to consider taking an iodine supplement. Often, mothers who are vegetarians, vegans and pregnant may not consume enough iodine through food.
The body can absorb iodine supplements along with potassium. See “Dietary Supplements Containing Potassium Iodate and Potassium Iodide”. Do not take more than 150 mcg of the vitamin per day. This can result in an excess of iodine, which is also bad for the thyroid. Most individuals with iodine deficiency can improve their health by modifying their diet and taking supplements,” Varshini Panga said.
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