January is Thyroid Awareness Month. The thyroid gland is located in the base of the neck. Although it is a small gland, the thyroid influences many of the body's organs and is important to the body's overall well-being.
The following are some of the conditions that can occur when the thyroid is not functioning properly:
Learn more about thyroid health by checking out these items from the Community Health Library:
A Simple Guide to Thyroid Disorders: From Diagnosis to Treatment
by Paul Ruggieri, MD and Scott Isaacs, MD
The authors, specialists in thyroid treatment, can help you understand both the complex function of your thyroid and how your disorder can best be treated.
Overcoming Thyroid Problems
by Jeffrey R. Garber, MD
Check out this authoritative source of practical information for thyroid patients and those who think they may have a thyroid problem.
Hypothyroidism: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed
by Maureen Pratt
The author is a "patient-expert" who shared her unrivaled experience and knowledge, walking those newly diagnosed step-by-step through their first year with hypothyroidism.
Living Well with Graves' Disease and Hyperthyroidism: What Your Doctor Doesn't Tell You... That You Need to Know
by Mary J. Shomon
This book is a holistic roadmap for diagnosis, treatment and recovery for the millions of people suffering from Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism.
Thyroid Disorders Sourcebook
edited by Joyce Brennfleck Shannon
This guide contains basic consumer health information about disorders of the thyroid and parathyroid glands.
Visit these websites for more information:
MedLine Plus - This site provides comprehensive, up-to-date information on the thyroid and thyroid disorders, including links to articles on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
NetWellness - Find out about symptoms, tests, and treatments for thyroid disorders. You can even "Ask an Expert" if you can't find the information you need.
ThyroidAwareness.com - Visit this site, from the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, to learn about the importance of the thyroid gland as well as how it works.
ThyroidAwarenessMonth.com - Mary Shomon, author on the topic of thyroid disease, publishes this site. Visit to learn how to "Check Your Neck: Save Your Life."
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