Hyperthyroidism

Description

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. When the thyroid gland produces too much hormone, it can speed up the body’s metabolism, leading to a variety of symptoms. This condition tends to affect women more than men.

Hyperthyroidism can be caused by several factors, including autoimmune diseases like Graves’ disease, thyroid nodules, inflammation of the thyroid gland, and some medications.

Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism is typically made by measuring the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood, as well as other tests such as a radioactive iodine uptake test or thyroid ultrasound.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism can include:
1. Mood swings
2. Insomnia
3. Fatigue
4. Weight loss
5. Heat sensitivity
6. Diarrhoea
7. Nervousness and irritability
8. Hyperactivity
9. Increased perspiration
10. An enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter), which may appear as a swelling at the base of the neck
11. Muscle weakness
12. Thinning skin
13. Fine, brittle hair
14. Rapid or irregular heartbeat.

Treatments

1. Lifestyle changes: Patients with hyperthyroidism are advised to avoid stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol, and to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
2. Considerations during pregnancy: Women with hyperthyroidism who are planning a pregnancy or are already pregnant require close monitoring and may need adjustments to their treatment regimen.
3. Psychological support: Patients with hyperthyroidism may experience anxiety, depression, or other psychological symptoms. Psychological support and counseling can be helpful in managing these symptoms.
4. Since digestion may speed up and malabsorption may occur, people suffering from hyperthyroidism will need to take care of their diet to avoid excessive weight loss.
5. Regular monitoring: Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels and symptoms is important to ensure that the treatment is effective and to detect any potential complications.

Nutrients and supplements:
1. Thyroid O – For an overactive thyroid.
2. Vitamin B Complex – is required for thyroid function
3. vitamin B6 – is required for immune function
4. Brewers yeast – rich in B vitamins
5. Lecithin – protects the lining of cells and organs.
6. Buffered Vitamin C
7. Vitamin E – is an antioxidant

Causes

Hyperthyroidism may be caused by the following:

1. The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’s disease.
2. Viral infections
3. Inflammation (thyroiditis) often due to taking certain medications
4. After pregnancy
5. Taking too much thyroid hormone medication
6. Noncancerous growths on the thyroid or pituitary gland
7. An abnormal immune response.

Underlying Emotions

There may be a tendency to try too hard in order to please others and you are often left feeling like a failure. The family setting may have placed great emphasis on success, whereas failure may have resulted in rejection.
Your efforts may not have been acknowledged in a fulfilling way, and there is a tendency to place a great deal of pressure on yourself. You may often feel that you are not good enough.

Diet

1. Increase calcium intake: Hyperthyroidism can cause bones to become weak and brittle, so it is important to ensure adequate calcium intake through sources such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods.

2. Limit caffeine and stimulants: Caffeine and other stimulants can exacerbate symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as anxiety and tremors. Therefore, it is advisable to limit or avoid caffeine and other stimulants such as alcohol.

3. Eat a balanced diet: A balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats is important for overall health and can help manage symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

4. Consider gluten-free: Some people with hyperthyroidism may have an autoimmune disorder, such as celiac disease, that is triggered by gluten. A gluten-free diet may be helpful in managing autoimmune-related symptoms.

5. A high calory diet should be maintained until normal weight has been reached, and protein can be initially increased until tissue wasting is controlled.

6. The following foods may assist to suppress thyroid hormone production: broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, peaches, pears, kale, and turnips.

Remedies