Reader's Corner

When 25.862 people agreed to have their blood tested for thyroid abnormalities, 8.9 per cent had an underactive thyroid (hypo-thyroidism), and 1 per cent had an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). These findings suggest that many may be unaware that they have thyroid problems.

A thyroid gland that pumps out too much - or too little- of the hormones that regulate meta-bolism, heart rate, and body temperature can cause nervousness or depression. Weight loss or gain, bursts of energy or exhaustion. An untreated thyroid problem can ultimately lead to menstrual and fertility problems and perhaps even to high cholesterol levels and heart disease.

Contact your doctor, and discuss a thyroid function test if you experience fatigue, depression, constipation, poor memory and concentration, muscle aches, dry skin, and irregular menstrual cycles.