Treatment for hypothyroidism
Treatment for hypothyroidism focuses on supplementing the thyroid hormone. At present, doctors cannot cure hypothyroidism but they can help people to control it in most cases.
Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s disease are medical conditions that have no cure in Western medicine and are treated by giving patients a laboratory-synthesized thyroid hormone (Synthroid).
Standard treatment for hypothyroidism involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine (Levo-T, Synthroid). This oral medication restores adequate hormone levels, reversing the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism.
There are common approaches to treatment for hypothyroidism that can help reduce the symptoms described below in this article.
You’ll likely start to feel better soon after you start treatment. The medication gradually lowers the disease’s elevated cholesterol levels and may stop any weight gain. Treatment with levothyroxine will likely be lifelong, but because the dosage you need may change, your doctor is likely to check your TSH level every year.
Determining the proper dosage may take time.
To determine the right dosage of levothyroxine for the treatment of hypothyroidism, your doctor generally checks your level of TSH after six to eight weeks. After that, blood levels are generally checked six months later. Excessive amounts of the hormone can cause side effects, such as:
- Increased appetite
- Insomnia
- Heart palpitations
- Shakiness
If you have coronary artery disease or severe hypothyroidism, your doctor may start treatment with a smaller amount of medication and gradually increase the dosage. Progressive hormone replacement allows your heart to adjust to the increase in metabolism.
Due to the side effects caused by medication, lots of people are looking into natural treatment for hypothyroidism.
Hashimoto disease treatment
Hashimoto disease treatment usually depends on whether your thyroid is damaged enough to cause hypothyroidism. If you don’t have hypothyroidism, your doctor may choose to simply monitor you to see if your disease gets worse.
Hypothyroidism is treated by replacing the hormone that your thyroid can no longer make. You will take levothyroxine, a thyroid hormone medicine that is identical to a hormone the thyroid normally makes.
What is hypothyroidism?
What is hypothyroidism? Hypothyroidism occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck. It releases hormones to help the body regulate and use energy.
The thyroid provides energy to nearly every organ in your body and controls functions such as your heartbeat and digestive system. Without the right amount of thyroid hormones, your body’s natural functions slow down.
Hypothyroidism, also called underactive thyroid, affects women more frequently than men. It commonly affects people over 60, but it can begin at any age. It may be discovered through a routine blood test or after symptoms begin.
However, you may be wondering if Hashimoto’s disease is the same as hypothyroidism. Though both are related, it is a different condition and requires a very different approach.
What is Hashimoto’s disease?
Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that can cause hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid. With this disease, your immune system attacks your thyroid, which becomes damaged and can’t make enough thyroid hormones. Hashimoto’s disease is also called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, or autoimmune thyroiditis.
Causes of hypothyroidism
The causes of hypothyroidism are divided into primary and secondary causes. A primary cause is a condition that directly impacts the thyroid and causes it to create low levels of thyroid hormones. A secondary cause causes the pituitary gland to fail, which means it can’t send thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) to the thyroid to balance the thyroid hormones.
Primary causes of hypothyroidism are much more common. The most common of these primary causes is an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s disease. Also called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, this condition is hereditary (passed down through a family). In Hashimoto’s disease, the body’s immune system attacks and damages the thyroid, preventing it from making and releasing enough thyroid hormone.
The other primary causes of hypothyroidism include:
- Having a family history of thyroid disease
- Having other autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, or lupus)
- Having undergone thyroid surgery
- Having a history of exposure to radiation to your neck or upper chest
- Iodine deficiency (not having enough iodine in your body).
Symptoms of hypothyroidism
The symptoms of hypothyroidism often develop slowly over the years and may be mistaken for the natural changes of aging.
Hypothyroidism Symptoms in Adults
Look out for these potential symptoms of hypothyroidism:
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Sensitivity to cold temperatures
- Depression
- Dry skin
- Thinning hair
- Heavy menstrual periods (in women)
- Trouble sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating
- Pain or swelling of the joints
- Constipation
- High cholesterol levels
- Muscle weakness
Hypothyroidism symptoms in Infants
Hypothyroidism is most common in middle-aged and older women. But sometimes, infants and children can develop the condition, such as infants born without a thyroid gland or with a thyroid gland that doesn’t function properly.
The symptoms of hypothyroidism in infants may include:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
- Frequent choking
- Puffy face
- Constipation
Hypothyroidism symptoms in Children and Teens
Symptoms of hypothyroidism in children and teens are similar to symptoms in adults and can include the following:
- Poor growth or short stature
- Delayed puberty
- Slow reaction time
- Weight gain
- Coarse, dry hair or skin
- Muscle cramps
- Delayed mental development
- Increased menstrual flow (in girls).
Natural treatment for hypothyroidism
The standard treatment for hypothyroidism is taking daily thyroid hormone replacement medication. Of course, medications often come with side effects, and forgetting to take a pill might lead to more symptoms.
This is where natural treatment for hypothyroidism comes in line; it causes no side effects and fits into your overall lifestyle better. The goal of natural remedies for hypothyroidism is to fix the root cause of the thyroid problem. Thyroid problems sometimes start as the result of:
- Poor diet
- Stress
- Missing nutrients in your body
Changing your diet and taking an herbal supplement are two ways you can help your thyroid condition. These options may have fewer side effects than taking thyroid medication. Listed below are hypothyroid natural treatments.
Home remedies for hypothyroidism are an essential addition to any approach to the treatment of hypothyroidism.
Those who suffer from thyroid problems can look at home remedies for hypothyroidism to deal with the issue more comprehensively without causing any side effects. Listed below a few home remedies for hypothyroidism that work.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a home remedy for hypothyroidism. It contains medium-chain fatty acids that help the thyroid gland function better. When taken in a non-heated form, coconut oil helps lose weight, increases metabolism, and balances body temperature.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar helps balance hormone production and expression. It improves metabolism and helps alkalize the body’s environment. Apple cider vinegar also helps regulate body fats, wash away toxins, and absorb nutrients. It can be added to water and honey and taken every morning.
Ginger
This is one of the easiest home remedies for hypothyroidism, as it is easily available. Ginger is rich in essential minerals like potassium and magnesium and helps combat inflammation, one of the primary causes of thyroid issues. It is easiest to have ginger tea.
Vitamins B
Vitamins are another home remedy for hypothyroidism that helps fight the underlying causes of thyroid problems. Vitamins from the ‘B’ family are essential for proper thyroid function. Vitamin B12 is especially instrumental in helping people with hypothyroidism. Including eggs, meat, fish, legumes, milk, and nuts in a daily diet might help with a steady supply of vitamin B.
Vitamin D
A deficiency of vitamin D can lead to thyroid problems. Since the body can produce it only when exposed to the sun, ensure that you get a minimum of 15 minutes of sunlight daily. This will also lead to better calcium absorption and good immunity.
Diet for hypothyroidism: an essential component of any treatment for hypothyroidism
You do not need to follow a special diet for hypothyroidism when using thyroid hormone medications, with a few exceptions. Limit foods high in soy protein, because large amounts of soy can interfere with the absorption of thyroid hormone. Also,
avoid excessive amounts of iodine, both in medications and supplements, as this can potentially alter the level of thyroid hormone. Most iodine-rich foods, like iodized products or fish, are acceptable. In addition to these restrictions, you are free to eat what you want, but aim for a healthy diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Adopting a nutritious thyroid diet keeps you feeling good when your thyroid levels are normal and helps your digestive system function smoothly and your heart pump efficiently – both of which support a healthy metabolism. If you still don’t feel well despite the medication, improving your diet and starting an exercise program can help. The following are some tips for healthy eating.
Eat nutritious foods. To improve health, eat various fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains. Protein in your diet for hypothyroidism should be derived from lean sources such as fish, soy, or beans. Rely on healthy oils such as olive, avocado, and truffle oils.
Herbs for hypothyroidism: an excellent natural home-based treatment for hypothyroidism
Herbs for Hypothyroidism is a natural treatment for hypothyroidism that has been proven to be effective without any side effects. Listed below are some of the herbs for hypothyroidism that are effective in helping reduce the symptoms of hypothyroidism:
Centella asiatica, or Gotu kola
Gotu kola is an excellent herbal remedy for hypothyroidism that is considered one of the safer adaptogenic herbs and is generally well tolerated by patients. One of the most common subjective symptoms that hypothyroid patients report is “brain fog.” Centella in the herbal formula can help support cognitive function.
Fucus vesiculosus
Fucus vesiculosus is another herb for hypothyroidism that is alternatively known as Bladderwrack. It is the herb most commonly associated with the treatment of hypothyroidism. This kelp and seaweed product is often used in hypothyroidism due to its high iodine content.
Cordyceps Sinensis
This herb is often found in hypothyroid formulas. It is a wonderful herbal remedy for hypothyroidism and a great choice for extremely fatigued patients. It can also help with insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular health. However, once again, Cordyceps Sinensis has not been shown to improve thyroid function directly.
Homeopathy for Hypothyroidism: The #1 natural treatment for hypothyroidism
Homeopathy for hypothyroidism is a natural remedy for hypothyroidism that not only considers the symptoms of the disease but also the constitution of the patient. That means the physical, mental and emotional states of the patient.
Homeopathy for hypothyroidism is highly effective and especially useful for people who want to avoid the side effects. When hypothyroidism is not treated, signs and symptoms can gradually become more severe. Listed below are homeopathic remedies for hypothyroidism:
This homeopathic remedy for hypothyroidism is one of the commonly prescribed remedies. It is prescribed for obese people who cannot tolerate cold temperatures. The person requiring this remedy may exhibit excessive sweating on the head and be extremely sluggish in their work.
Nux Vomica
This homeopathic remedy is prescribed in those individuals suffering from hypothyroidism who are extremely angry by nature and get offended very easily. They are very sensitive to all external impressions. This medicine also helps in relieving obstinate constipation in hypothyroid patients.
Similarly, there are other remedies for hypothyroidism like Lycopodium Clavatum, Sepia, and Graphites which are prescribed for hypothyroidism as per their personalities. However, self-medication is not recommended. An expert homeopathic doctor takes a detailed case history and prescribes a suitable homeopathic medicine for better treatment outcomes and a longer disease-free period.
Acupuncture for hypothyroidism – an ancient Chinese treatment for hypothyroidism
Acupuncture is one of the hypothyroid natural treatments that have been used to treat the underlying conditions of hypothyroidism.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) regards both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism as Yin/Yang imbalances. It often uses acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary therapy to rebalance Yin and Yang (the concept of duality forming a whole).
According to the World Health Organization, acupuncture for hypothyroidism is very effective. A study at the Shanghai Medical University in China found that symptoms of hypothyroidism improved significantly when treated with a Chinese herbal preparation to stimulate the kidney energy channel, confirming the tie between hypothyroidism and a deficiency in kidney energy.
Listed below are some of the benefits of acupuncture for hypothyroidism
- Increasing levels of thyroid hormones in people with hypothyroidism
- Lowering levels of thyroid hormones in patients with hyperthyroidism
- Reducing sensitivity to pain and stress, as well as promoting relaxation by acting on specific areas of the brain
- Increasing the release of the chemical adenosine, which decreases sensitivity to pain
- Improving muscle stiffness and joint mobility by increasing blood circulation in small blood vessels, which aids in the dispersal of swelling
- Reducing inflammation by promoting the release of vascular and immunomodulatory factors.
Acupuncture for hypothyroidism is beneficial and safe for the treatment of the thyroid, as many patients have shown significant improvement after starting the most popular treatment in Chinese medicine, acupuncture.
Acupuncture for hypothyroidism has served as an effective alternative treatment for many ailments, including Hashimoto’s Disease. For the sake of introduction, let’s take a look at some basic things about acupuncture, especially how it works.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body called acupuncture points. There are many points networked together, and they form meridians in the body system. These points run longitudinally on the body surface, making 20 meridians in the entire body. 12 meridians out of these are referred to as the primary meridians connected to specific body organs. These acupuncture points have fine needles inserted to heal different body parts or particular points for a certain ailment.
Another important fact about acupuncture is the term Qi, regarded as the flow of energy in the meridians. These meridians are connected to different systems in the body, including the gastrointestinal, immune, and endocrine systems. Acupuncture helps the proper flow of blood through all these systems to guarantee their wellness. Acupuncture reduces stress and pain in the body by stimulating the release of neurotransmitters and endorphins. Acupuncture can also modulate the immune system.
How acupuncture for hypothyroidism can treat hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s disease.
Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s disease can be primarily described as an underactive thyroid gland in an individual, and these show different symptoms in patients, such as slow speech, puffy face, hoarse voice, constipation, dry skin and hair, weight gain, and depression.
TCM for hypothyroidism uses the combination of Acupuncture for hypothyroidism, dietary therapy, and herbal medicine to treat such disorders by balancing Yin and Yang to the appropriate proportion in the body.
Mechanism of TCM and Acupuncture for hypothyroidism
Acupuncture for the thyroid tends to improve the well-being of patients with hypothyroidism and acts as a potent alternative to substitution therapy. Acupuncture for hypothyroidism treats Hashimoto’s disease by modulating the immune system. With the help of acupuncture, this modulated immune system can also improve immunological conditions such as allergies, immunodeficiency syndromes, autoimmune conditions, and infections.
The World Health Organization (WHO) attests to the potency of acupuncture in treating thyroid disease. Specifically, several studies have been conducted on the benefits of Chinese medicine for hypothyroidism, especially acupuncture. For example, a one-year study at Shanghai Medical University on 32 patients with hypothyroidism showed significant improvement.
For people with Grave’s disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, acupuncture works in this category by modulating the immune system but does not correct whatever trigger is responsible for the condition. For example, in the case of a person with a leaky gut caused by gluten intolerance (H. Pylori infection), acupuncture will not directly heal the condition of a leaky gut or H.Pylori infection. Healing will come from combining acupuncture with other natural treatments, modulating the immune system.
Acupuncture for hypothyroidism – Most common treatment in Chinese Medicine
Chinese medicine for hypothyroidism often recommends the combination of Chinese medicinal herbs, aconite (fu zi), cinnamon (rou gui), and acupuncture for hypothyroidism. Kidney Yang Tonic (Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan) and Right Restoration Formula (You Gui Wan) are other standard herbal formulas. These are combination therapy administered to ensure that the patient is free from Hypothyroidism.
Conclusion
The benefits of Acupuncture are not limited to Hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s Disease alone; it is beneficial to treat infertility, asthma, acute and chronic pain, migraine, and many other conditions.
Acupuncture for thyroid is an effective alternative treatment when it is administered by a reputable and experienced acupuncturist. The right procedures, including proper diagnosis and the required number of sessions needed for total recovery, will be discussed with the patients. Acupuncture for the thyroid brings about the tranquility the body requires and this will be achieved when the right acupuncturist administers treatment.
If you are interested in treating Hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s Disease using holistic medicine approaches, Chinese Acupuncture, and/or Homeopathic remedies – make an appointment for an Alternative Holistic Evaluation at Philadelphia Acupuncture Clinic.
Dr. Tsan and associates will examine you and propose the most customized treatment plan.
Contact our clinic at (267) 403-3085