Many people think that thyroid problems are not common. If
you also think so, you are wrong. There are endless number of questions, doubts
and speculations about all aspects of this condition including what causes it,
its symptoms and how it is treated. You can understand all this better if you
know what thyroid exactly is.
The thyroid gland performs an essential function in the
body, and the thyroid hormone is responsible for the regulation of the
metabolism, the growth and the energy of the body.
However, the issues related to the work of this gland are
common. Namely, its high or low activity leads to illnesses like hypothyroidism
and hyperthyroidism.
It is of vital importance to know all about these terms, the
symptoms, causes and treatments in order to successfully prevent health issues.
According to statistics, 1 out of 20 people is susceptible to develop some kind
of thyroid issues in their life.
Moreover, women are more likely to develop these illnesses.
Difference Between Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism
These two health issues are a result of the imbalance of the
thyroid hormone. Its production should not be deficient nor excessive, in order
to prevent hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Hypothyroidism is a result of a deficiency of the thyroid
hormone in the body. In the case of hypothyroidism, the individual experiences
the following symptoms: cramping, muscle pain, dry skin, trouble in
concentration, excess fluid in tissues, thinning of hair, tiredness, as well as
sensitivity to cold temperatures.
By contrast, hyperthyroidism occurs in the case of excessive
production of this hormone and leads to symptoms like an acceleration of heart
rate, diarrhea, irritation, anxiety, unexpected weight loss, sleeping trouble,
nervousness, and heat sensitivity.
In some cases, when the thyroid gland works too hard, it
causes the formation of a large lump in the throat, as a symptom of lack of
iodine, and it is called goitre.
However, your lifestyle is a determining influence on the
incidence of these conditions. Namely, its most significant triggers are the
following:
- Deficiency of Iodine
- Accumulation of toxins
- Metal buildup
- Chronic stress
Prevention and treatment
Proper nutrition
Your diet is of fundamental importance in the treatment of
these issues. Therefore, you should avoid or reduce the consumption of sugar,
processed foods, and refined flours, and increase the intake of iodine, zinc,
omega-3 fats, and selenium, as they promote thyroid health.
Exercise
Regular exercise supports the thyroid function, so they can
help you substantially re-balance the production of this hormone.
Stress management
Prolonged stress causes exhaustion of the adrenal which leads
to thyroid related issues. Therefore, you should engage in some relaxing
activities, and stress management programs, like meditation, yoga, walks in
nature or breathing exercises which will significantly reduce tension and
provide calmness and peace of mind.
Heat therapy
Thyroid issues may also be treated with a heat therapy or
sauna session, as these methods detox the body and eliminate the toxins which
lead to problems with the thyroid.
Nutritional supplements
Before you decide to use some alternative products to treat
these issues, you need to consult your doctor or holistic practitioner.
However, you can find numerous effective products to maintain a proper thyroid
metabolism.
Thyroid hormones
In order to treat or prevent these issues and support the
thyroid health, your doctor may inform you about some effective thyroid hormone
replacement therapy.
Prevent thyroid issues by preventing their causes
In order to successfully prevent thyroid problems, you need
to prevent the major causes of their occurrence. Therefore, you should reduce
stress, and treat allergies, heavy metals and nutritional deficiencies on time.
Moreover, you should avoid dairy products and gluten, which cause digestive
distress.
Source : magazineforhealthy
