Share:
Hypothyroidism: Prevention & Insurance Coverage
When it comes to hypothyroidism, men and women with this condition may find treatment is an option, but long-term medical care is necessary. That means having a health insurance policy that covers all of your needs and reduces your risks of paying a lot out of pocket is very important. Most health insurance policies can help you, but you should verify that with your agent. The following can help you know what your options are, but it is for health insurance related decisions, not medical decisions, only.
What Causes Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is also known as underactive thyroid syndrome. It occurs when the body’s thyroid, which regulates the production of hormones into the body, is not working properly and is under producing the necessary amount of hormones. The condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including autoimmune disease. It can also be caused as a result of over-treating hyperthyroidism, having thyroid surgery to remove the organ and some medications.
It is less common, but still possible for the causes of hypothyroidism to include pituitary disorders, congenital disease, or an iodine deficiency. Sometimes, pregnancy can cause it as well.
Hypothyroidism Risk Groups
Are you at risk for underactive thyroid disorder? It is most common in women who are over the age of 60 but can occur in both men and women. Those with a genetic predisposition to it may also be impacted. Those who have type 2 diabetes or celiac disease may also have it. Those who take medications, have received radiation to the upper chest, or who have had a partial or full thyroidectomy are most likely to develop it.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Symptoms of hypothyroidism are hard to spot initially and only become more likely as the condition goes on. Some signs of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, puffy face, muscle weakness, increased sensitivity to the cold, constipation, thinning heart, and a slowed heart rate. It can also occur in children, in which case it can cause jaundice, a type of yellowing of the skin, as well as difficulty breathing, a hoarse cry, and an umbilical hernia.
Prevention of Hypothyroidism
In most situations, it is not possible to simply prevent hypothyroidism from occurring. The Cleveland Clinic reports that it is possible to watch for symptoms and to react to them early on to prevent complications. When it comes to your health insurance, checking thyroid levels can be a part of a routine blood test, something you should consider on a regular basis with your wellness exams. These should fall under your health insurance coverage. It is important to receive ongoing medical care and screenings if you are at risk for this condition.
Health Insurance Coverage for Hypothyroidism
If you have hypothyroidism, it is likely that you will need medications on an ongoing basis to treat this condition. Most of the time, your health insurance policy will provide complete coverage for this, or you may have a co-pay or deductible to meet. If you have a standard health insurance policy, it is likely to include the medications and medical appointments necessary for this condition. It is also important for you to maintain a policy with a deductible that’s within reach since most patients will need routine testing and medications long term.
If you are looking for a new health insurance policy and have an underactive thyroid, the good news is enough coverage is available to you through most plans. However, you should consider your current doctors and whether you hope to remain with them long term. If so, you should choose a health insurance policy that includes your current doctors and providers. It is also important for you to consider health insurance costs related to prescription medications. Though some patients may do well on basic medications, others need more complex or harder to obtain medications. In this case, you may want to ensure your new plan covers those medications.
Obtaining enough health insurance for your thyroid problems is important. Be sure to speak to your doctor about your underactive thyroid symptoms, and to work with your health insurance company to continue to get support for medical appointments and medication needs.
<zipcode>Find The Best Health Insurance In Your Area:<zipcode>
