Iodine Deficiency Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
The body must be protected from iodine deficiency conditions because the body requires a certain amount of iodine. Its function is to be able to produce thyroid hormone adequately.
Thyroid hormones control metabolism and other important body functions. Low iodine levels are not the only cause of decreased thyroid function.
Iodine deficiency can cause an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, known as a goitre, as well as other thyroid problems. In children, this condition can also cause mental disability.
Although it requires iodine, the body does not produce it naturally. The way to get these nutrients is through food. Adults generally need about 150 micrograms of iodine per day. Pregnant and breastfeeding women need about 20 micrograms of iodine per day.
Iodine can be found in various types of food. Starting from fish, eggs, nuts, meat, bread, milk and processed products, seaweed, and iodized salt.
About two billion people worldwide suffer from iodine deficiency. This is mainly found in developing countries where many people still have limited access to healthy food. However, this condition can also affect anyone, even those in developed countries, who don’t get enough iodine or their bodies can’t process iodine properly.
It should also be noted that pregnant women need more iodine intake. Therefore, the intake of foods with high levels of iodine is particularly recommended for this group.
Symptom
Iodine deficiency signs and symptoms can include:
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck, which is characterized by a visible lump in the neck
- Fatigue
- Increased sensitivity to cold temperatures
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Weight gain
- Swollen face
- muscle weakness
- Increased levels of cholesterol in the blood
- Pain or stiffness in muscles and joints
- Decreased heart rate
- thinning hair
- Depression
- Memory weakness
- Menstruation with excessive bleeding in women
In infants, hypothyroidism can cause signs and symptoms of:
- Choking frequently
- Tongue enlargement
- Swollen face
- Constipation
- Weakening of muscle movement ability
- Excessive drowsiness
In children and adolescents, hypothyroidism can cause signs and symptoms of:
- Poor growth
- Delay in tooth development
- Puberty delay
- Poor mental development
- In addition, this condition can also cause cognitive problems such as low intelligence quotient (IQ), learning difficulties, and mental disabilities (especially in children).
Reason
Iodine deficiency is caused by insufficient iodine intake for daily needs. Lack of iodine intake causes a decrease in thyroid hormone production, which then causes enlargement of the thyroid gland.
Diagnosis
If the doctor suspects that there is a deficiency or deficiency of iodine, several supporting tests can be carried out to detect iodine levels in the body, including:
-
Urine examination.
This examination is the most simple, fast, and results can be known in minutes. However, the results obtained may not be as accurate as other iodine tests.
-
Blood test.
This simple and accurate test is done to check the level of iodine in the body. It takes longer than a urine test to find out the results.
-
Examination of iodine patches.
This test is done by placing an iodine patch on the skin and examining it 24 hours later.
In those who are not deficient in iodine, the iodine patch will start to wear off after 24 hours. However, those who are deficient in iodine will lose the iodine patch more quickly. However, this check is not always accurate.
-
Iodine loading check.
This test measures the amount of iodine excreted in the urine over a 24-hour period. Although it is not a quick or easy check to do, this check is considered quite accurate.
Treatment
Treatment of iodine deficiency can be corrected by adopting a healthy and iodine-rich diet. If dietary changes cannot meet the needs of iodine, the doctor may consider providing iodine supplements.
People who generally don’t get enough iodine from their daily diet are those on a vegetarian, vegan diet or pregnant women. Iodine supplements that contain potassium are the most easily absorbed by the body.
Prevention
Iodine deficiency can be prevented by ensuring adequate daily intake of iodine. The Institute of Medicine recommends a recommended daily intake of iodine of 150 micrograms per day for adult women and men, 220 micrograms per day for pregnant women, and 290 micrograms per day for breastfeeding women. One teaspoon of iodized salt contains about 400 micrograms of iodine.