Are you looking for ways to manage and treat your thyroid condition? Read this blog to learn about what underactive thyroid means, the causes and symptoms of hypothyroidism, and treatment plans for your specific condition.
Thyroid disease occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much or too little thyroid hormone. It can affect energy levels, metabolism, bone health, and other functions.
Treatment for thyroid disorders is now possible with the effective use of medication, surgeries, and other therapies.
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a thyroid disorder that occurs when the thyroid gland does not make enough hormones to meet your body’s needs. This situation occurs because of a deficiency or lack of thyroid hormone, which leads to a slow metabolism and decreased energy levels.
It is also known as an ‘underactive thyroid’ because it simply reflects the root cause of the disease, which is that the thyroid glands are not performing at their optimal level. Hypothyroidism can affect anyone, irrespective of their age and gender. However, some research shows that it is a common condition among women over the age of sixty.
There are mainly two types of thyroid disorders: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism involves higher levels of thyroid hormones that speed up your metabolism; in contrast, hypothyroidism can slow down your metabolism.
What causes hypothyroidism?
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) occurs when the butterfly-shaped endocrine gland does not produce enough of the hormone thyroxine.
There can be primary and secondary reasons for hypothyroidism. It includes the following:
- Autoimmune diseases such as Hashitom’s disease
- Thyroid surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Thyroiditis
- Lack of iodine
- Pituitary disorder
- Problems present at birth
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms of hypothyroidism are usually not shown at first, but over time, problems tend to develop slowly, often over several years. An individual who is going through hypothyroidism experiences one or more of the symptoms discussed below:
- Muscle weakness and aches
- Tiredness
- Difficulty concentrating and memory issues
- More sensitive to cold
- Hypothyroidism can even lead to high levels of cholesterol.
- Thinning hair and hair loss
- Feelings of sadness and depression
- Slowed metabolism can lead to digestive problems, including constipation.
- Swelling of the neck
- Slow heart rate
It is crucial to seek your doctor right away if you’re facing or notice any of these symptoms in yourself, as it can be a sign of hypothyroidism.
Treatment options for hypothyroidism
According to Ayurveda, any disorder that occurs in a person’s body is due to an imbalance of any of the five elements. Treatment of an underactive thyroid focuses on not only healing the specific part of the body but also balancing the doshas.
Let’s dive into some of the treatments for hypothyroidism.
- Panchakarma
Panchakarma is a therapy that is done for the internal purification of the body and restores the imbalance of the doshas if you have any. It is an herbal method that helps you expel more toxins from the body.
There are five types of treatments done under Panchakarma therapy, such as Vamana, Vasthi, and Nasya. According to your specific needs and your body type, an Ayurvedic practitioner can perform any one of the five treatments.
- Abhyanga
It is a type of ayurvedic oil massage that helps you relax and also relieves the pain that you have in your muscles. Abhyanga is a good treatment for people with an underactive thyroid that harmonises your mind, body, and spirit.
- Herbal remedies
Other than treatments and therapy, herbal remedies can also help manage hypothyroidism. Herbs such as Ashwagandha, Gum Guggul, Coleus forskohlii, and ginger are helpful for thyroid support because of their unique properties.
- Diet and lifestyle recommendations
Following a healthy diet is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid and also reduces the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Add fresh vegetables, gluten-free grains, seeds, nuts, and healthy fats to your diet if you have an underactive thyroid. Say no to processed and gluten-free foods, as they may worsen the situation.
CONCLUSION
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones and can lead to reduced metabolism and fatigue. Along with medication, there are herbal remedies, therapies, and dietary changes available that can help manage this underactive thyroid.
Reach out to Ayursparsh Clinic and Panchakarma Center in Dharwad, Karnataka, for treatment of various health conditions, such as hypothyroidism.
Consult Dr. Rashmi C. Patil, MD (Ayu), for an effective and personalised treatment plan for hypothyroidism.
