Thyroid Imbalances In Weight Problems
Part of the endocrine system of the body, the thyroid is a gland which produces hormones that are responsible for metabolic regulation. Imbalances in this gland can have many effects on the body including fluctuations in weight, either up or down, that can not be adjusted through diet or exercise alone.
The symptoms which are exhibited depend on whether the imbalance experienced is an overactive or under active thyroid. With an overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism, there is an overabundance of hormones produced. In the case of an under active thyroid, known as hypothyroidism, too little of these hormones are produced. In either case, the result is a metabolic imbalance.
When the metabolism is too rapid, as with hyperthyroidism, the person usually experiences an uncontrollable loss in weight along with an increase in appetite. Other symptoms are common which are indicative of the overactive nervous system, including shortness of breath, anxiety and palpitations, to name a few.
With hypothyroidism, the opposite occurs. The metabolism is not working quickly enough and this person will generally experience weight gain and water retention. Other symptoms can include fatigue, sensitivity to cold and even depression.
Symptoms tend to appear over a period of time, perhaps weeks or even months. And, as most of the symptoms are not specific only to thyroid problems, it can be difficult for the sufferer to know that they need to seek out a doctor. For example, one does not first think of hypothyroidism when one feels unusually tired.
Once medical help is sought, various tests are usually done to confirm a diagnosis of thyroid disease. Blood tests are done but cannot always be relied upon to give a true confirmation. Causes of thyroid problems are many, whether hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, and there are various treatment methods possible.
In the case of hyperthyroidism, medication is often given which help to decrease the output of hormone levels. In this case, dosages are carefully monitored to ensure that the person is not given too much and does not become hypothyroid as a result. There are cases where the patient is able to go into remission from their disease with this treatment. Another possible treatment of an overactive thyroid is with iodine that is radioactive. There is some controversy regarding this because of the radioactivity. Surgery is an option that is generally avoided if at all possible.
In the case of hypothyroidism, treatment is almost always the taking of medication to replace the thyroid hormones. Generally, these medications are synthetic although there are some available that are produced from the thyroids of pigs.
Among the various alternative therapies which are now considered are yoga and other breathing exercises, acupressure, acupuncture, herbal supplements, and diet. Generally, these therapies are thought to be more effective if the condition is treated in the beginning before the imbalance becomes too severe. Even for people who need to be on medication of some type, these therapies may help to improve the thyroid imbalances as well.
Would you like to learn more about natural cure for hypothyroidism? Read other articles at thyroid disease guide
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