Joan Chen, a 24-year-old teacher in the Chinese mainland, never imagined her personal struggle with hyperthyroidism would touch so many lives. In 2022, she posted striking before-and-after photos on Xiaohongshu, a popular social media platform, highlighting her journey with the condition. Her images showcased noticeable physical changes like bulging eyes and a swollen neck—hallmark symptoms of thyroid disorders. She also shared that medication had caused her to gain 10 kilograms.
“Not only did my appearance change, but I became emotionally withdrawn and lost confidence,” Chen revealed.
Her candid story struck a chord, drawing thousands of comments from users who shared similar struggles. Many uploaded their own photos, seeking advice and turning the thread into a supportive community focused on thyroid health.
Once a lesser-discussed issue, thyroid disorders are now trending on Chinese social media, especially among younger users. Personal stories like Chen’s are fueling public dialogue and raising awareness about symptoms such as facial puffiness, significant weight changes, hair thinning, skin issues, and emotional volatility.
Improved health screening and growing health awareness have led to a sharp rise in the detection of thyroid nodules. Many individuals are discovering their conditions during routine checkups.
The thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ at the base of the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, emotional stability, and reproductive health. It produces hormones that affect nearly every cell in the body. In young people, proper thyroid function is essential for cognitive and physical development. Any imbalance can cause widespread issues.
According to the European Society of Endocrinology, thyroid disorders are the second most common endocrine diseases worldwide, after diabetes. In China, more than 200 million people are believed to suffer from some form of thyroid dysfunction. A national survey found that hyperthyroidism affects 1.22 percent of the population, hypothyroidism 13.95 percent, and thyroid nodules a striking 20.43 percent. Overall, an estimated 40 percent of China’s adult population may be affected by thyroid-related conditions.
Medical experts categorize thyroid disorders as either functional or structural. Functional disorders, like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, often result from autoimmune conditions but can also stem from viral infections, iodine imbalances, or certain medications. Structural changes primarily involve thyroid nodules, typically detected through imaging. While most nodules are benign, some can cause hormonal imbalances or signal malignancy.
Dai Weide, director of the Ultrasound Department at Beijing Hospital, noted that thyroid nodules are “extremely common,” with a prevalence exceeding 20 percent. “If the nodule is smaller than 2 centimeters and not causing symptoms like difficulty swallowing or breathing, there is generally no need for treatment. Regular follow-up is enough,” he explained in an interview.
After nearly three years living with hyperthyroidism, Chen has started to come to terms with the changes. “I’ve gotten used to it,” she said. Following her doctor’s advice, she has made significant lifestyle adjustments—cutting out coffee and milk tea, adopting a lighter diet, and avoiding late nights. For Chen, the journey is not only about managing a chronic condition but also about rediscovering strength and resilience in everyday life.
