The Thyroid Foundation of Canada has developed an excellent questionnaire to help you discuss thyroid disease with your healthcare provider. The symptoms of thyroid disease can mimic many other conditions. By using a tool such as this, you can define your symptoms more clearly and help in the process of diagnosis and control.
A copy of the assessment can be obtained through the Foundation website or by calling 1-800-267-8822. They also have other helpful educational information and support groups throughout Canada.
- To make your own checklist:
- List the common symptoms of thyroid disease and indicate whether you experience them or not with a yes or no checklist. (So, How Do I Know if it's Thyroid?)
- List where you were born (there are known clusters of thyroid disease)
- List your family history, has anyone else in your family had any form of thyroid disease or autoimmune disease?
- Include any previous diagnosis and treatment for thyroid disease that you may have had.
- List any herbal remedies or dietary supplements that you are currently taking. This is an important question as many of the popular weight loss supplements contain substances that stimulate both the adrenals and the thyroid.
- List your medical history including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease. All of these problems are affected by the level of thyroid hormones.
- Are you taking cholestyramine, amiodarone or lithium? Drugs that directly affect thyroid levels.
Preparing in advance for any medical visit helps you organize your thoughts and prioritize your questions. It will help you take control of the interview and allow you to discuss your concerns more clearly. Actually, making it easier for the practioner to make a diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
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