Thyroid Issues – Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
The thyroid gland is a vital part of our metabolism regulation and energy. As this gland fails to work properly, by low or high activity, many problems can occur. Primarily known as Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism respectively, understanding the signs and symptoms, causes and treatments can improve your recovery and prevention of these serious diseases.
It is estimated that one in twenty (1 in 20) people are prone to develop thyroid issues and more prevalent in women than men.
Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism (see list of signs and symptoms below)
An imbalance of the hormone, Thyroxin that is produced by the thyroid, can cause these diseases. Thyroxin deficiency, or under productive thyroid, can lead to hypothyroidism. You might experience tiredness, muscle pain and weakness, cramping, poor concentration, sensitivity to cold, horseness of voice, low body temperature, swelling, thinning hair and dry skin.
An excess amount of Thyroxin, or over productive thyroid, can lead to hyperthyroidism. Symptoms may include anxiety, nervousness, irritation, weight loss, increased heart rate, diarrhea, heat sensitivity, and bulging eyes. In some cases the thyroid will begin to grow larger, called a goiter, to capture more iodine if there is an iodine deficiency.
Lifestyle is a key factor in thyroid issues. Some factors include:
- Chronic Stress
- Accumulated Toxins
- Accumulated heavy metals
- Iodine or Amino Acid deficiency
Also, toxic adenomas, Grave’s disease or thyroiditis can lead to hyperthyroidism, just as overexposure to iodine or lithium, Hashimoto’s or thyroid removal can lead to hypothyroidism.
Prevention and treatment
Diet and Nutrition –
Insure to eat a well balanced diet. Digestive health is a must. Ensure that your gut is healthy by eating probiotic rich foods. Avoid sugars, processed foods, and refined flour and eat foods that promote a healthy thyroid including foods that are high in omega fatty acids, iodine, selenium, the amino acid L’Tyrosine, and zinc. Supplementation of these nutrients can also help.
Stress management –
Chronic stress leads to adrenal exhaustion, which results in thyroid imbalance. Consider adding stress management programs regularly to your routine. Suggestions include: acupuncture, meditation, nature walks, yoga, breathing exercises and other programs that improve peace of mind and calmness.
Exercise –
Regular exercise may support thyroid function by balancing hormone production. If exercise is difficult, try a whole body vibrational machine three days a week for 10 minutes.
Sauna and Detoxing –
Sauna and other detoxification therapies can help remove the toxins that contribute to thyroid dysfunction.
Fomentation –
This is a big word for a simple process. Fomentation is a combination of hot and cold pack therapy used to help detoxify the thyroid and stimulate the healing process. Seek your Holistic Practitioner for instructions and specifics for your individual thyroid issue.
Nutritional supplements –
Work with your Holistic Practitioner to discuss supplements for your thyroid concerns, but be careful to consult your physician and utilize the supplements that are right for you. Some physicians many prescribe thyroid hormone replacement therapy to treat or support your thyroid.
Prevention is better than a cure –
Many causes of thyroid issues are preventable. Maintaining a healthy gut and diet, lowering stress, managing allergies and inflammation, and removing toxins and heavy metals can all encourage a healthy thyroid function and prevent possible issues in the future!
Hypothyroidism (aka – Hashimoto’s)
Symptoms:
- Extreme tiredness
- lethargy
- lack of stamina and motivation
- memory loss
- brain fog
- depression
- mood swings
- hearing loss
- weight gain
- mid-afternoon crash
- waking up several times each night
- brittle/ridged nails
- joint/muscle pain
Signs:
- Sparse eyebrows (outer ends)
- swelling of face and around eyes
- changes at the back of the eye
- wasting of tongue
- listless, dull look to eyes
- horseness
- rapid heart rate with weak force of contraction
- slow thinking
- slow pulse rate
Hyperthyroidism (aka – Grave’s Disease)
Symptoms:
- Protrusion of eyeballs
- breathlessness
- nervousness
- difficulty sleeping/insomnia
- fatigue
- itching
- heartbeat sensations
- palpitations
Signs:
- Hair loss
- staring gaze
- nausea & vomiting
- warm
- moist skin
- goiter
- fast heart rate
- trembling hands
- weight loss
