Health insurance for thyroid patients

The thyroid is a small gland located in the front part of the neck. It is shaped is like a butterfly, which is smaller in the middle and bigger on both sides. If normal in size, it won’t be visible from the outside; if it swells up, it becomes noticeable in the outer part of the neck. The main function of the thyroid is to make hormones and when this function is not performed properly, it results in a disorder of the thyroid.

There are mainly two types of problems in the thyroid gland, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Their symptoms are as follows:

Hypothyroidism: Also called underactive thyroid, in this disorder the thyroid gland does not make enough hormones and, as a result, the metabolism does not function properly. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

• Tiredness
• Cold sensitivity
• Skin dryness
• Weight gain
• Swelling of the face
• Hoarseness
• Muscle weakness
• Increased cholesterol level in the blood
• Muscle pain and stiffness
• Joint stiffness and pain with swelling
• Irregular periods
• Hair fall
• Slow heartbeat
• Depression

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Hyperthyroidism: This is the opposite of hypothyroidism. In people with hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland starts producing a hormone called thyroxine in excess. Hyperthyroidism increases the rate of metabolism, which causes problems like rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating, nervousness and irritability. This disease occurs more in women than in men. Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include:

• Excessive hunger
• Restlessness
• Inability to concentrate
• Physically weakness
• Insomnia
• Hair loss
• Itchy skin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Male breast enlargement

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Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism cannot be completely cured as of now. However, their symptoms can be managed with the help of medicines, lifestyle changes and other treatment procedures. You doctor may prescribe your medicines, which you have to take for the rest of your life or until the symptoms go away. Along with medicines, you may also be asked to make some special changes in your daily diet.

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Some studies suggest that about 32% of Indians are affected by a thyroid problem and that more women are affected by it than men. A person suffering from a thyroid disorder has to take medicines for life, which can have an effect on their finances. Not only medication, but thyroid disorder patients may also require regular check-ups with their doctor and regular tests to be conducted. So if you or any of your family members is suffering from a thyroid-related problem, then it is necessary to have a good health insurance plan so that there is no added financial burden on you. 

If you are planning to buy a health insurance plan, then myUpchar Bima Plus can be a good option for you. In this policy, the maximum coverage is given to the customer at a minimum premium. myUpchar Insurance Plus provides coverage for critical illnesses, ICU and pre and post hospitalization expenses. Apart from this, you also get the facility of 24x7 free tele-OPD under this insurance policy.

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Buying a health insurance plan is a good idea for those who suffer from long-term diseases like thyroid. But while choosing a plan, it is important to keep some things in mind:

• Inclusions: In cases like this, it is important to pay attention to the inclusions while picking a health insurance plan. If you are thinking of buying a health insurance plan specifically for thyroid treatment, double-check that it is being covered by the plan you’re considering.
• Coverage: If your health insurance company is giving you less coverage, then you may have to pay some expenses out of your pocket at the time of need. So, buy a health insurance plan from a company that provides maximum coverage to you.
• Premium: Before buying a health insurance plan for thyroid, it is also important to see how much premium you have to pay. You have to choose a health insurance plan with the lowest premium; however, you should also make sure that there is no reduction in benefits. Also, confirm with the company about the period for which you have to pay the premium.

Thus, when you are going to buy a health insurance plan for the treatment of thyroid, find out as much as you can about the treatment options as well as the policy you’re considering. Read all the documents, talk to the customer service officer if you don't understand anything and, if possible, consult a knowledgeable person.

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