(Courtesy of The Healthline)
In 1981, Barb Cobbe faced a serious health crisis. Diagnosed with thyroid nodules, a common and usually treatable condition, she was prescribed medication. But the medication didn’t work for her, and the nodules grew into a massive tumour that wrapped around her windpipe and threatened to strangle her. Surgery was scheduled, and she prepared herself for a diagnosis of cancer.
As it turned out, the tumour was benign and the surgery was successful. A few years later, she mentioned to a friend that she had gained some weight, and the friend suggested it might be related to her thyroid condition. Cobbe started looking for information and discovered the London chapter of the Thyroid Foundation of Canada. She has been a volunteer since 1989 and president for more than a decade. "We’ve grown a lot and done a lot," says Cobbe. "It’s worked into a full-time volunteer position for me - I’m always coming up with new ideas!"
Cobbe says the test for thyroid disease, TSH, should be part of the standard blood work accompanying an annual check-up. It’s especially important for older people, who are more likely to have thyroid problems, yet are often misdiagnosed with depression or dementia. Cobbe says you should tell your doctor if people in your family have had thyroid problems. If you are prescribed with thyroid medication, it’s essential to take it as directed and monitor your health closely. "Keep on top of things," she says. "If you’re still not feeling well after a couple of months, go back and ask to be re-tested. Be proactive and involved."