What exactly is Hypothyroidism?
Insufficient Hypothyroidism hormone production by the thyroid gland is the underlying cause of Hypothyroidism. The thyroid gland in the neck secretes hormones that control metabolic rate, growth, and development.
Autoimmune illnesses, iodine deficiency, radiation therapy, certain medicines, and even being born with an underactive thyroid can cause hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism signs and symptoms may include:
Fatigue and weakness
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Cold intolerance
Constipation
Dry skin
Hair loss
Depression or irritability
Memory problems and difficulty concentrating
Decreased libido
Menstrual irregularities in women
Muscle and joint pain
Slow heart rate
Elevated cholesterol levels
It is important to note that the symptoms of Hypothyroidism can vary in severity and may not be present in all individuals. Additionally, some symptoms may be like other medical conditions. So it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
What Causes It?
High sugar/carb intake produced diabetes; cigarette usage caused cancer. Thyroid issues have few causes besides familial predisposition. Yet if thyroid was rare until the last few decades, then it's hard to believe that heredity is at play here.
Thyroid disease illness is the leading cause of Hypothyroidism. Thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly targets and destroys the thyroid gland. This group accounts for 80% of hypothyroid cases. Besides, a quick and easy antibody test can determine whether you have an autoimmune disorder. Still, these easy and cheap tests to determine the source of sickness are skipped in most situations.
How Does Hypothyroidism Relate to Obesity?
According to the results of our meta-analysis, being overweight "may be related to at least a 1.86-fold increase in the chance of developing Hypothyroidism.
Obesity elevates the danger of developing Hypothyroidism by 86%. That's still another critical justification for trimming down.
The exact mechanism by which obesity causes Hypothyroidism is complex and beyond the scope of this article.
Is This a Genetic Disorder?
The answer is yes, and genes do matter. And this is one of many contributing elements. Furthermore, if it were genetic, the sickness wouldn't have increased so over the past few decades. So, your environment and lifestyle choices are far more influential than your genes. It's better to work on changing our environment and ourselves than to place blame on our genes. Many people find it reassuring to attribute a problem in their lives to heredity rather than taking responsibility for fixing it themselves.
Why Does the Human Body Turn Against Itself?
The reason why is because:
Reactions to certain foods, such as wheat gluten, milk, too much iodine, etc., are reasons. These compounds activate the immune system, which may target other tissues and organs.
One of the primary causes of inadequate hormone production by the thyroid gland is stress.
Thyroid dysfunction may be caused by infection. Particularly if the infection persists over time.
Vitamin, mineral, and nutrient deficiencies can interfere with the thyroid's ability to do its job.
Heavy metal toxicity, such as that caused by lead or aluminium, is another potential cause of thyroid problems.
What test do you need to undertake for Hypothyroidism?
TSH and thyroid hormone levels measured in a blood test to determine hypothyroidism.
Most common tests:
TSH test: Measures blood TSH levels. The pituitary gland produces TSH in response to low levels of thyroid hormone in the blood. If TSH levels are high, the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone.
Free thyroxine (T4) test: This test measures the level of T4 in the blood. T4 is the thyroid's main hormone. Low levels of T4 in the blood can state Hypothyroidism.
Triiodothyronine (T3) test: Measures blood T3. T3 is the active form of thyroid hormone and is produced from T4. But, T3 levels are not always measured in the initial evaluation of Hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism may need extra testing. Thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO) tests for autoimmune illnesses and radioactive iodine uptake tests for thyroid function. A medical practitioner should diagnose and treat you.
Can Hypothyroidism be Reversed?
Yes, Hypothyroidism can be reversed by solving and treating the root cause of the disease. Functional Medicine Doctors are experts in reversing the thyroid. Functional Medicine have better approach to find the root cause and treat Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's.
Proper medication and control allow most hypothyroidism patients to live normal, healthy lives. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy improves symptoms within weeks to months. But, it's crucial to keep taking medication and seeing a doctor often. To maintain hormone levels and change drug dosages.
Iodine deficiency or some drugs may reverse hypothyroidism. Fixing the cause may help. Autoimmune illnesses like Hashimoto's thyroiditis or congenital hypothyroidism need lifelong hormone replacement therapy.
Which Herbs and Vitamins Are Optimal?
If you have Hypothyroidism or are taking medicine, you should talk to your doctor before taking any vitamins or herbs. Some can interact with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Nonetheless, the following are some vitamins and botanicals that have shown promise for improving thyroid health:
Iodine: Thyroid hormone production cannot occur without iodine. Iodine supplements are helpful, but they should only be taken under the supervision of a medical practitioner. Because excessive consumption can be dangerous and may exacerbate Hypothyroidism in some situations.
Mineral selenium: Which plays a role in thyroid health and has anti-inflammatory properties, may assist. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most prevalent autoimmune cause of Hypothyroidism, and selenium supplementation may help those with it.
Ashwagandha: It is an adaptogenic plant, a possible stress reliever and a thyroid health booster. Rhodiola is an adaptogenic herb that may help reduce stress and increase vitality.
There is some evidence that the omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish oil supplements and certain diets can help reduce inflammation and promote thyroid function.
The safety and efficacy of vitamins and herbs in people with Hypothyroidism are not well-established. So they should not be used as a replacement for conventional medical care. Please consult your doctor before taking any herbs or supplements to ensure they are right for you.
Besides, you should take herbs or vitamins for your thyroid issues when you've determined the causes. For example, if your zinc levels are low, you can enjoy a higher daily intake. Omega 3 may also be helpful if you have problems with inflammation or cholesterol. Milk thistle may be helpful if you're having problems with your liver. Talk to a nutritionist for the same advice.
Dr.Priti Nanda Sibal is CEO of Mediskool Health Services Pvt Ltd. She has experience of 25+ years and is a successful functional medicine practitioner in Gurugram. She practised with a philosophy that focused on human relationships and treating the whole person, rather than simply the disease. Such ideology was dubbed "Whole Life Health" by her. As the healthcare system made it more difficult for patients to receive this level of personalized treatment, Dr. Priti Nanda Sibal near Gurugram decided to bring change in lives of people. She gave priority to personal health of an individual and she is doing it by practicing dedicatedly entirely to Functional Medicine.
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