Who’s Most at Risk

• Women, who are 10 times more likely to be diagnosed with thyroid troubles than men.
• People with a family history of autoimmune diseases. The immune system causes 90 percent of thyroid diseases, says Dr. Isaacs.
• Women who have given birth within the last six months. Pregnancy actually lowers the risk of thyroid problems because the immune system is suppressed. But after delivery, Dr. Isaacs says, the risk for thyroid problems increases.
• Women over 30. The American Thyroid Association advises that women begin having their thyroids tested at age 35 and once every five years after that.
• People 65 or older. More than 17 percent of women have hypothyroidism symptoms after age 65.
• Smokers. Many studies have shown that if you smoke, you are more likely to develop a thyroid disease. Smoking has even been shown to trigger postpartum thyroid problems.

Was It Something You Ate?

• Raw veggies: Eating a large dose of raw cruciferous veggies, such as broccoli, cauliflower or radishes, is known to suppress the thyroid. “It’s hard to determine the exact dosage, but 16 ounces a day of these vegetables is too much,” says Dr. Isaacs. Cooked veggies are fine, though.
• Too much soy: If you’re already taking thyroid medicine, go easy on soy products; soy appears to lower the effectiveness of the medication.
• Too many meds: Doctor-prescribed drugs that treat anemia, diabetes or hormone replacement, or even too many aspirin (more than eight a day), can impact your thyroid.

Do a Neck Check!

1. Look in a mirror and focus on the area of your neck just below your Adam’s apple but above your collarbone. That’s where the thyroid gland is located.
2. While looking in the mirror, tip your head back slightly and swallow a drink of water.
3. As you swallow, see if you can spot any bulges or bumps in the area when you gulp. They could indicate an enlarged gland that deserves a doctor’s attention.