Thyroid Cancer – Types, Causes, and Warning Signs

Thyroid Cancer – Types, Causes, and Warning Signs

The thyroid is a tiny butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, which produces hormones that help regulate metabolism. Thyroid cancer occurs when the cells in this gland grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a tumor. This post discusses the disorder’s types, causes, and silent symptoms that some might otherwise overlook. With this information on hand, individuals will be able to assess their level of risk, recognize potential symptoms early, and take steps toward prevention as needed.

Types of thyroid cancer
Determining the type of thyroid cancer can help better manage the symptoms and seek appropriate treatment. The common types are:

Papillary thyroid cancer
It is the most commonly found thyroid cancer, affecting around 80 percent of patients with this health condition. However, it typically grows slowly, is unlikely to spread, and is often curable.

Follicular thyroid cancer
This type of cancer arises from the follicular cells in the thyroid gland. It accounts for approximately ten percent of cases and may be more aggressive than papillary thyroid cancer.

Medullary thyroid cancer
It is a rare condition that develops in the parafollicular C cells of the gland, which produce and accelerate a hormone called calcitonin. This hormone is often present in increased amounts in people with thyroid cancer.

Anaplastic thyroid cancer
This is perhaps the rarest but most aggressive type, which quickly spreads to other parts of the neck and body. As a result, it is often difficult to treat.

Causes and risk factors of thyroid cancer
The following are a few factors that can increase a person’s chances of developing the condition:

Exposure to radiation
Radiation exposure, especially during childhood, increases the risk of thyroid cancer. One must try to stay away from radiation released by nuclear accidents and be cautious while undergoing health procedures involving radiation.

Family history
People with a family history of thyroid cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease. Such individuals should go for regular screening tests to rule out the condition and be on the lookout for its symptoms.

Gender
Thyroid cancer is more prevalent in women than in men. However, health scientists have found no biological reason for this occurrence.

Age
Thyroid cancer can occur at any age, but it is more common in people over 40. Hence, older adults and seniors should look out for its symptoms.

Lack of iodine in the body
A lack of iodine in meals has been linked to an increased risk of certain types of this disorder. Thus, individuals must add more eggs, dairy products, seaweed, and iodized salt to food to lower their susceptibility.

Acromegaly
Acromegaly, an endocrine disorder caused by excessive growth hormone production, can increase a person’s risk of thyroid cancer. Due to excess growth hormones and other hormones released from tumors, chemicals in the body that usually control cell growth and division become unbalanced. As a result, cells in the thyroid gland grow faster and start sticking together instead of separating after forming new cells. This can lead to faulty cell division, transforming into cancer over time.

Various variables can contribute to the development of thyroid cancer, from genetics to the environment and food. Individuals should be aware of these factors and take steps to avoid the condition.

Silent warning signs of thyroid cancer
The condition may not always cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, some silent warning signs may indicate its presence. Individuals should look out for the following:

Lump or swelling in the neck
A lump or swelling in the neck is the most common symptom. The lump may be located on one side of the neck or in the middle and can be felt when one swallows or tilts the head backward. Usually, thyroid nodules are benign and not cancerous, but a healthcare expert must evaluate any lump or swelling in the neck to rule out thyroid cancer.

Difficulty swallowing
Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can occur when a tumor presses against the esophagus or windpipe. It can cause a sensation of fullness in the throat or make it difficult to swallow solid foods.

Hoarseness or voice changes
A thyroid tumor can affect vocal cords and cause hoarseness or other changes in the voice. While this is a symptom of thyroid cancer, other conditions like laryngitis or acid reflux also affect a person’s voice.

Neck pain
Neck, throat, or ear pain is a rare symptom of this disorder. Since poor posture, physical strain, or injury can also cause pain in these areas, one should visit a healthcare professional to determine the cause.

Enlarged lymph nodes
Thyroid cancer can cause the lymph nodes in the neck to swell and become tender. Enlarged lymph nodes indicate that the immune system is fighting an infection or illness but may also be a sign of cancer.

The warning signs mentioned above may be benign or caused by other conditions. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean one has thyroid cancer. However, it is vital to see a doctor if such discomforts manifest. Those in high-risk groups, such as women, seniors, and people with a family history, should go for regular checkups. It provides peace of mind and helps catch the disease before it spreads to other body parts.

Treatment for thyroid cancer can differ from person to person, depending on the symptoms and severity. It typically involves surgery to remove the thyroid gland or part of it, sometimes followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy. In most cases, thyroid cancer can be successfully treated with early detection, and many patients go on to live long and healthy lives. Still, one should be aware of the risk factors and recognize potential warning signs to prevent the disorder from developing in the first place.

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Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It's an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It's rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease. Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers. You can eat them raw with a dip, mix them into your salad, or enjoy them as an appetizer. Some people also like roasting bell peppers and using them as a topping for lettuce salads or sandwiches. Olive oil It contains healthy fat and has anti-inflammatory properties. Since it is monosaturated fat, it stays stable even at higher temperatures as you cook. Thus, switching to extra virgin olive oil can give you more antioxidants while you still enjoy your favorite dish. Green vegetables Leafy veggies like spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, and cabbage are hydrating, low in calories, and have high antioxidant and vitamin content. If you wish to be cautious about your mineral levels, you must opt for cabbage and arugula, which are nutrient-rich and lower in sodium, potassium, phosphorous, and calcium. In addition, kale and spinach have a high potassium content, which is ok for people seeking to improve their kidney health, but best for those already dealing with chronic kidney disease. Blueberries They are called superfoods because they are rich in antioxidants and are a low-calorie Vitamin-C and fiber source. You can stock them in abundance from your local grocery store or farmer’s market. You can also shop for frozen berries in the off-season and enjoy healthy smoothies. People with kidney diseases can also eat other berries like raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries. Apples Apples are low in potassium and rich in fiber when you eat them with peel. They also have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and are ideal for your kidneys. Foods to avoid Soda Soda has zero nutritional benefits and instead has high sugar content. It only adds to the extra calories. Some studies link high soda consumption to conditions like kidney disease, osteoporosis, dental problems, and metabolic syndrome. If you opt for their lower calorie alternative like coke zero, even that will do you no good, as it has no nutritional value and contains artificial sweeteners and additives. Hence, you must omit soda and opt for healthy beverages like water. If you do not enjoy plain water, add a slice or two of fresh fruit for added flavor. Avocados Avocadoes are known for their many nutritious qualities. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Even though consuming avocado is often considered healthy, people with kidney disease must avoid it as avocados have a high potassium content. An average-sized avocado has about 690 mg of potassium. If you love the taste and do not want to eliminate it, you can reduce the portion size to only 1/4th of the avocado. In addition, it will lower potassium intake.  Salty foods Sodium or salt is one of the most prevalent inclusions in foods you consume daily. However, their density is higher in processed foods. Salt results in water retention and may cause blood pressure, lung, and heart disease. Healthy kidneys work towards maintaining the correct fluid balance in the body. So, if your kidneys do not function as desired, the fluid balance may be disturbed. Hence, you must curtail sodium-rich foods like processed foods, packaged items, and soy sauce. When cooking meals at home, opt for low-sodium alternatives. You can replace salt with spices and herbs and keep the salt shaker off the table. Dairy Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, ice cream, and milk are rich in protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients. They also contain potassium and phosphorous. People with stage three kidney disease might want to curtail their potassium, phosphorous, and protein intake, which is high in dairy. So, you can instead reach out for dairy alternatives like rice, soy, or almond milk as they have lower potassium, phosphorous, and protein content than cow’s milk. Bananas Though naturally low in sodium, bananas' potassium content is significantly high. So, to ensure your kidney disease does not aggravate, monitor your potassium intake, and it might be challenging if the banana is your staple. Conclusion Whatever you eat or drink will affect your health regardless of any health issue. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced meal plan are prerequisites to staying fit and controlling blood sugar levels. A kidney-healthy meal plan is less about eliminating certain foods but following portion control and finding a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

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Identifying and Managing Psoriatic Arthritis

The occurrence of red, scaly skin patches and intense joint pain is usually indicative of psoriatic arthritis. It's a form of inflammatory arthritis with symptoms such as joint stiffness, swelling in the wrists and fingers, fatigue, and back pain. Knowing its causes and treatments can help manage this potentially disabling disease. This blog will discuss what causes psoriatic arthritis, how to identify its symptoms, and which foods may benefit people with psoriatic arthritis. What triggers psoriatic arthritis?Psoriatic arthritis may affect joints such as the spine, fingers, toes, and hips. It's normally diagnosed through simple lab tests to detect inflammation and antibody levels in the body. Its symptoms are stiff joints, body pain, swelling in different body parts, tiny dents in nails, inflammation, difficulty walking or climbing stairs, and fatigue. The condition may be triggered by severe stress, infections, certain treatments, the use of tobacco, injuries or wounds. If you experience these symptoms and need psoriatic arthritis relief, you must consult your healthcare provider immediately. The following are a few methods of treatment for psoriatic arthritis:UV light (therapy for severe cases)Anti-inflammatory remedies (to help alleviate the pain)Biologics (a process to block inflammation-causing proteins)Surgery (to replace a joint with a metal counterpart)6 foods to manage psoriatic arthritisWalnutsWalnuts are a healthful addition to any meal plan, especially for those managing psoriatic arthritis. Studies have shown that consuming walnuts can reduce inflammation in the body. It can be beneficial in providing relief to joint pain and other physical symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis. Walnuts are also rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, which help protect health by reducing disease-causing free radicals. These radicals are unstable atoms that damage other atoms and cause inflammation. Additionally, high omega-3 and vitamin E levels in the nut may help reduce the pain and stiffness usually felt when dealing with this autoimmune disorder. You can blend a handful of walnuts into breakfast smoothies, top your pancakes with crushed walnuts, or eat them whole.Dark chocolateDark chocolate has health benefits for those struggling with psoriatic arthritis. It is a natural source of polyphenols (antioxidants) that can reduce inflammation and decrease joint swelling caused by psoriatic arthritis. Additionally, dark chocolate contains omega-3 fatty acids, giving it anti-inflammatory properties to help manage symptoms of the condition. Eating dark chocolate can improve overall health by strengthening the immune system and aiding digestion. To reap its health benefits and manage psoriatic arthritis symptoms, enjoy two ounces or less of dark chocolate daily to ensure you're not over-consuming sugar.Brown riceBrown rice is an incredibly healthful food that may promote healing for those with psoriatic arthritis. This grain is full of complex carbohydrates known to break down slowly into glucose, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, providing an influx of energy throughout the body. In addition to this metabolic benefit, brown rice provides a rich source of fiber, which helps maintain satiety while keeping digestion regular.  Additionally, brown rice contains flavonoids that can help protect cells from damage caused by arthritis and other environmental factors. Finally, consuming brown rice regularly gives your body a powerful dose of minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron, and manganese. These minerals are essential in managing symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis, such as joint pain and swelling.Flax seedsFlax seeds can be a great asset in managing psoriatic arthritis. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, flax seeds have been proven to reduce inflammation associated with psoriatic arthritis and aid in pain management. Moreover, their lignans, which are plant compounds with antioxidant and potential anti-inflammatory properties, can help counteract some of the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. Regular consumption of this food item may even slow down the progression of psoriatic arthritis. In addition to anti-inflammatory properties, flax seeds provide other health benefits such as improved digestion and a better functioning immune system.Dark berriesDark berries, such as blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, and acai berries, are a great addition to any diet to help manage psoriatic arthritis. These fruits provide a wide range of essential vitamins (such as C and K) and minerals (such as iron and manganese), which can be easily consumed fresh or frozen. As dark berries possess anti-inflammatory properties, they work wonders in relieving the painful symptoms associated with the condition. Furthermore, the antioxidants in them can inhibit certain molecules responsible for causing inflammation. Whether you choose blueberries blended into your favorite smoothie or sprinkle a handful of blackberries atop your cereal in the morning, incorporating dark berries into your health regimen can help promote health and treat psoriatic arthritis!Ground spicesGround spices can benefit people with psoriatic arthritis as they contain health-promoting properties. Curcumin, an active component of ground turmeric and curry powder, contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can reduce inflammation. It also helps to prevent oxidative damage (oxygen imbalance), which is linked to psoriatic arthritis flare-ups. Consuming curcumin supplements significantly reduces joint pain and swelling associated with this health condition. Nutrients such as magnesium and zinc, available in some ground spices such as ginger, rosemary, and turmeric, can also help boost immunity, improving health over time. In addition, ground cinnamon could help alleviate symptoms due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties, induce blood circulation in affected joints, and reduce redness and stiffness. Ground cloves may relieve chronic joint pains due to their analgesic (pain-relief) properties. In conclusionRecognizing the signs and understanding potential causes of psoriatic arthritis can help you accurately identify them and take proactive steps to manage your symptoms. Eating anti-inflammatory foods such as salmon and certain fruits while avoiding processed foods can help reduce inflammation and improve your well-being. Exercises such as swimming or pilates might be great for managing your pain. Additionally, working with physical therapists can provide further support if needed. Above all, remember to speak with your physician, who can assess your situation more accurately and make personalized recommendations.

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