Description:
Galgand is a thyroid-related disorder resulting from Kapha and Medo Dhatu accumulation, which leads to goiter-like swelling in the neck region. It is associated with hormonal imbalances, sluggish metabolism, and iodine deficiency. Symptoms include weight fluctuations, fatigue, swelling in the throat, and metabolic disturbances. Management includes metabolic boosters, Panchakarma therapies, and diet regulation.
Signs & Symptoms:
Gandamala (Goitre): Swelling in the neck due to an enlarged thyroid gland.
Shwasa (Breathlessness): Difficulty breathing or swallowing due to pressure from the enlarged gland.
Karna Kshweda (Tinnitus): Ringing or buzzing sounds in the ears caused by pressure on surrounding tissues.
Rukshata (Dryness): Dry skin and hair, which may accompany thyroid dysfunction.
Vishama Agni (Irregular Digestion): Digestive issues such as constipation or bloating due to thyroid imbalances.
Vata Prakopa (Skin Sensitivity): Increased sensitivity in the skin, particularly around the thyroid area.
Diagnosis:
Thyroid Function Test (T3, T4, TSH) and neck ultrasound
Risk Factors:
1. Dietary Factors
Iodine deficiency due to inadequate intake of iodine-rich foods like seafood, dairy, and salt.
Overconsumption of goitrogenic foods (e.g., soy, cabbage, cauliflower) that can interfere with thyroid function.
2. Lifestyle Factors
Lack of access to iodine-rich foods or poor diet leading to hypothyroidism and goitre.
Exposure to environmental toxins or pollutants that can affect thyroid health.
3. Medical Conditions
Hypothyroidism, particularly in areas with iodine deficiency.
Autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which can lead to the enlargement of the thyroid gland.
Complications:
Breathing Difficulty (Shwasa Vikara) – Large goiters can compress the windpipe, causing difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Voice Changes (Vakta Vikruti) – Compression of the voice box (larynx) by the thyroid can cause hoarseness or voice changes.
Hypothyroidism (Kshaya Agni) – Untreated goitre can lead to low thyroid function, resulting in fatigue, weight gain, and depression.
Hyperthyroidism (Uttara Agni) – In some cases, a goiter can indicate an overactive thyroid, causing symptoms like weight loss, nervousness, and palpitations.
Thyroid Cancer (Gandamala Roga) – In rare cases, a goiter can become malignant, leading to thyroid cancer.
Epidemeology:
More common in women, especially those in their reproductive years or post-menopausal.
Peak incidence occurs between ages 30-60 in women, though men may also be affected.
Global prevalence varies, with higher rates in areas with iodine deficiency (especially mountainous regions and parts of Africa and Asia).
Approximately 200 million people globally are affected by some form of thyroid enlargement, often due to iodine deficiency.