Thyroid Types, Diagnosis, Treatment
In recent times, the incidence of Thyroid related disorders has increased substantially. Studies indicate women in India are more prone to suffer from conditions of the Thyroid gland than men. Routine tests are essential in monitoring hormone levels, and the costs quickly add up. In most cases, treatment can be life-long, although hospitalization may be required for surgeries in some cases. Can health insurance plans help in any way?
Well, health insurance cover can work in many ways to help you with thyroid care while taking care of the associated costs. Understanding Thyroid disorders and treatment options are necessary before choosing health insurance that can provide the required coverage.
Understanding Thyroid Disorders, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Thyroid disorders are broadly classified into the following:
- Hypothyroidism
- Hyperthyroidism
- Goitre
- Thyroid nodules
- Thyroid Cancer
Hypothyroidism is the disorder of the Thyroid that results in lower production of hormones necessary for metabolism. In contrast, Hyperthyroidism is the exact opposite, where there is an excess of Thyroid hormones, more commonly referred to as T4 and T3, in the bloodstream. Hypothyroidism is the more common of the two. When the Thyroid gland enlarges due to iodine deficiency, it leads to Goitre. Thyroid nodules are lumps within the gland; sometimes, they can be malignant like in Thyroid Cancer.
Treatments for Thyroid Disorders
Physicians advise treatment for thyroid depending on the type of disorder. In the case of low hormone secretion, Hypothyroidism, a usually synthetic hormone, called Levothyroxine, is recommended. In some cases, combination drugs are also prescribed for both T4 and T3 hormones.
For Hyperthyroidism, medicines to reduce hormones or manage symptoms are usually administered. Sometimes, a procedure called Radio-ablation therapy may be advised.
When Goitre becomes large and interferes with the functioning of adjacent organs, it can be surgically corrected.
Surgery is also necessary in the case of Thyroid Cancer.
Also read here: Health Insurance Plans For Thyroid Patients In India
Health Insurance for Thyroid
While specific insurance exists for conditions like Diabetes or Cancer when it comes to Thyroid disorders, such products aren’t as ubiquitous.
If you have comprehensive health care coverage with a high Sum Insured, it is probably adequate for treatment that requires hospitalization. However, as mentioned above, Hypothyroidism, which is the most common illness, requires long-term medication, routine consultation, and diagnostic tests. While specific comprehensive health care plans may provide some benefits around these, mostly a plan offering Out-Patient benefits would provide some financial cushion against frequent visits to the doctor.
Conclusion
Thyroid patients suffering from Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism need to prepare well for a life-long medication plan, tests, and hormone monitoring. It is essential to get health insurance early in life before the diagnosis of such conditions, to avail lower premiums, and avoid pre-existing disease wait period. Nowadays, most comprehensive plans provide a host of benefits around free health check-ups after subsequent claim-free years as well as access to various wellness programs that offer free consultation and preferential access to in-network wellness programs. Careful consideration of policy benefits will help in choosing a plan that helps manage thyroid better, for as long as needed.
Also read here: Thyroid Related Health Disorders and Health Insurance Plans Covering These Disorders
Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.
