Body temperature in general can tell a lot about infections, inflammation, and even overwork. In addition, the work of the thyroid gland can also be assessed by temperature – there is even a special temperature test, according to which, if the temperature is elevated, then it is worth thinking about hyperthyroidism, if it is lowered, then about hypothyroidism. Is this so, aif.ru said therapist, endocrinologist, cardiologist Tatyana Romanenko.
Temperature indicators and measurement nuances
Temperature indicators should be approached individually, and not be guided strictly by the indicator of 36.6. A temperature of 35.5 to 37.4 degrees can be considered the norm. And it is desirable for everyone to know their normal temperature in a healthy state. It is also important to understand that the temperature varies in different parts of the body:
- armpit – 36.3-36.9 degrees;
- in the garden — 36.8 — 37.3 degrees;
- in the rectum – 37.3 – 37.7 degrees.
To determine your normal temperature, you need to measure it to a healthy person several times a year at different times of the year. This will determine the operating temperature.
What factors can affect temperature?
The temperature indicator may change during the day. In the morning it will be the lowest, before going to bed – higher. If the temperature in the morning is 37.5 – this is a sign of illness, if the same indicator in the evening, then this is just an excuse to monitor your condition more carefully. In the elderly, the temperature is usually lowered. It is also affected by physical activity, food, smoking and outdoor temperature.
Is it possible to determine thyroid disease by a thermometer?
Yes, it is quite possible. Changes in thyroid function can affect changes in body temperature. This is due to the fact that the basal metabolic rate changes.
With hyperthyroidism – an increase in the production of thyroid hormones. Their excess becomes the cause of a sharp acceleration of metabolism, against which there is an excessive formation of heat and an increase in body temperature.
Also, the symptoms of such a problem will be:
- hot and wet skin;
- activity of the nervous system – irritability appears, there may be frequent changes in mood, a constant feeling of anxiety, tearfulness, trembling in the hands and body (symptom of the “telegraph pole”);
- poor tolerance to heat and stuffy rooms;
- weight loss against the background of increased appetite – this is due to the destruction of proteins and fats;
- frequent loose stools, which appears against the background of excessive activity of the nervous system;
- palpitations – the pulse can be more than 100 beats per minute. Rhythm failure is also noted – atrial fibrillation;
- increased blood pressure, predominantly upper (systolic);
- poor exercise tolerance – weakness and shortness of breath develop even with little activity;
- topical item for men – there is a decrease in libido;
- eye enlargement, development of lacrimation in bright light, double vision.
With hypothyroidism, that is, reduced thyroid function, there may be a decrease in body temperature – the indicator drops below 36.5 degrees. This is due to a decrease in metabolic processes. Also, people with this disorder may experience a general “chilliness”, cold intolerance. In addition, in the list of additional symptoms:
- general lethargy, drowsiness and some lethargy;
- swelling in the face, especially in the eyelid area;
- hoarse voice and slow speech;
- deterioration in performance;
- weight gain and even obesity;
- constipation;
- dullness and brittle hair;
- slow pulse;
- pressure drop;
- anemia;
- increased glucose levels;
- relevant for women – violation of the menstrual cycle;
- depressive states.
If the temperature, coupled with additional symptoms, suggests that something is wrong, you should go to the doctor and be examined.
What tests to take?
To evaluate the work of the thyroid gland, the following examinations are usually performed:
- Hormone analysis – TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), T4, free T3, total T3, antibodies to TPO and thyroglobulin.
- Ultrasound of the thyroid gland.
This is the necessary minimum.
The thyroid gland can be called the “top manager” of the body. Thyroid hormones affect metabolism in general, the functioning of the body, mental and physical development, and the state of the human nervous system. It is important to understand that although you can navigate by temperature, one measurement of it will not be enough to diagnose the functional activity of the thyroid gland. It is important to remember here that at first the symptoms of problems may not be noticeable, but over time their severity increases. So do not delay visiting a doctor, and timely diagnosis is the key to successful treatment and the ability to avoid complications.
Source: aif.ru
