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Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism, also known as an overactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, speeding up the body’s metabolism and causing various symptoms. Here’s a detailed explanation of what it is and what treatments are available. Hyperthyroidism is a common thyroid condition in which the thyroid gland produces too many hormones, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, restlessness, and heat intolerance.

Causes of Hyperthyroidism:

Graves’ disease (which is an autoimmune disorder), toxic multinodular goiter (which is an enlargement of the thyroid gland), toxic adenoma (a benign tumor in the thyroid gland), and thyroiditis (an inflammation of the thyroid gland).

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism:

Weight loss despite increased appetite, rapid heartbeat, nervousness or irritability, fatigue or muscle weakness, heat intolerance, increased sweating, and shivering.

Treatment Options for Hyperthyroidism:

The antithyroid drugs methimazole and propylthiouracil reduce thyroid hormone production. These drugs are often used for long-term control of hyperthyroidism, especially in children, adolescents, and pregnant women. Propranolol and other beta blockers relieve symptoms such as tremors, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety without affecting thyroid hormone levels. Radioactive iodine therapy destroys thyroid cells, reducing hormone production. This treatment is often used in the US and can lead to hypothyroidism, which requires lifelong thyroid hormone replacement. Surgery, called a thyroidectomy, removes part or all of the thyroid gland. This option is usually reserved for severe cases, large goiters, and pregnant women who cannot tolerate antithyroid medications.

Here are Some Lifestyle Changes to Consider:

Reducing iodine intake, avoiding certain foods and supplements, managing stress, and getting regular exercise.

Complications if Left Untreated:

Atrial fibrillation, congestive heart failure, infertility, osteoporosis, and thyroid storm a life-threatening conditions.

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism, also known as underactive thyroid, occurs when your thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, which are essential for various bodily functions. This condition slows down your metabolism and can lead to symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, and depression.

Causes of Hypothyroidism:

An autoimmune condition in which your immune system attacks your thyroid gland, destroying it and reducing hormone production. Not getting enough iodine in your diet can cause hypothyroidism, as iodine is crucial for thyroid hormone production. Removing part or all of the thyroid gland or using radioactive iodine to treat hyperthyroidism can cause hypothyroidism. Radiation exposure during cancer treatment can damage the thyroid gland. Problems with the pituitary gland, which controls the thyroid, can cause hypothyroidism.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism:

Weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, hair loss, cold intolerance, depression, and muscle weakness.

Treatment Options for Hypothyroidism:

Levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone medication that replaces the hormones your thyroid gland cannot produce. It is usually taken orally, and the dosage may need to be adjusted over time to maintain normal hormone levels. Regular blood tests are needed to ensure the correct dose and to prevent over- or under-medication.

Lifestyle Changes We Should Make:

If you have Hashimoto’s disease or other autoimmune thyroid disorders, avoid consuming too much iodine, as it can worsen symptoms. Regular physical activity, such as exercise, can help manage symptoms and improve overall health. Practicing mindfulness and stress reduction techniques to manage stress can help alleviate anxiety and depression.

Let’s Take a Look at The Complications That Can Occur if Left Untreated:

Heart problems, infertility, birth defects, peripheral neuropathy, and myxedema coma a life-threatening complications. With proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, most people with hypothyroidism can live normal, healthy lives.

Touch the forehead with the index fingers of both hands and control the mind. Cover the eyes with the other three fingers and close the ears with the thumbs. Inhale deeply and exhale slowly through the nose. If you practice this method called Bhramarik Pranayama daily, you can cleanse the respiratory tract, throat, and mouth. The day before, wash a teaspoon of sesame seeds thoroughly and soak them in water, and drain them in the morning. It will sprout in the evening. If you add coconut to it and eat it, it will cure the thyroid. This can be consumed by those with and without a thyroid. Similarly, exposure to sunlight before 9 am and after 4 pm is also very good. The stomach is the cause of all diseases. Lack of exercise is the cause of all diseases, so drink plenty of water to cleanse the stomach. A person weighing twenty kilograms must drink at least one liter of water.