Hypothyroidism

Author:
Dr. Veena Deo

The thyroid, a large bilobed endocrine gland of craniate vertebrates, arises as a median ventral outgrowth of the Pharynx, lying in the anterior base of the neck or anterior ventral part of the thorax, often accompanied by lateral accessory glands. Sometimes more or less fused with the main mass, it mainly produces the hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Also called the thyroid gland.

The thyroid gland works with the pituitary gland, which produces (TSH), i.e., Thyroid Stimulating Hormone. TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce Thyroid Stimulating Hormone T3 and T4. These hormones influence metabolism.

Hypothyroidism – deficient activity of the thyroid gland; also a resultant bodily condition characterized by a lowered metabolic rate and a general loss of vigor. An increase in body weight is a predictable result of a reduction in metabolic rate. Weight gain is therefore a common feature of primary Hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a common condition with various causes. The clinical presentation depends upon the duration and severity of the hypothyroidism. A consequence of prolonged hypothyroidism is the infiltration of many body tissues by the mucopolysaccharides, hyaluronic acid, and chondroitin sulfate, resulting in a low-pitched voice, poor hearing, slurred speech due to a large tongue, and compression of the median nerve at the wrist. Infiltration of the dermis gives rise to non-pitting edema, which is mostly marked in the shin of the hands, feet, and eyelids.

Clinical Features Of Hypothyroidism (Common)

Weight gain – explained above.
Intolerance to cold: An abnormal intolerance of cold, out of proportion to that experienced by other individuals, may indicate Hypothyroidism.
Dry skin, Thinning of the scalp, Tingling in toes and fingers, Slow pulse rate, Shortness of breath, Aching muscles with cramps, menorrhagia.

Less common signs and symptoms

Constipation, Hoarseness, Muscle stiffness, Infertility, Depression, Anemia, Hypertension, Loss of lateral eyebrows

Rare signs and Symptoms

Impotency, Ascites, Pericardial and pleural effusions

Investigations

In many cases, Hypothyroidism results from an intrinsic of the Thyroid gland (Primary Hypothyroidism). In such cases, T4 is low and TSH is elevated. Measurements of serum T3 are unhelpful since they do not discriminate reliably between euthyroidism (The state of having normal thyroid gland function. As opposed to hyperthyroid (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroid (underactive thyroid). Last Editorial Review: 10/30/2013. Search MedTerms: Back to MedTerms online medical dictionary A-Z List.) and hypothyroidism. The rarer condition of secondary hypothyroidism is caused by the failure of TSH secretion in a patient with anterior pituitary disease. In such cases, low serum T4 and TSH may be low, normal, or even slightly elevated.

Ref: Hutchison’s Clinical Methods – Edited by – Michael Glynn. William Drake

Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine

Herbs To Treat Hypothyroidism

Amla (Emblica officinalis E: Indian gooseberry), Patol. (Tricosanthe dioica E: Pointed gourd), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi E: Spikenard) are herbs that have a beneficial effect.
Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi): Researchers observe the efficacy of Bacopa monnieri as a thyroid-stimulating drug to treat Hypothyroidism.
Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus): Helps to prevent the development of Thyroid Disease.
Eleuthero: Useful to treat Hypothyroidism.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Helps to treat Hypothyroidism.
Commiphora – mukul (E: Gum guggul, Indian bedellium) is also advisable. It helps to reduce the increased cholesterol level. Guggulu may interfere with estrogen, Birth control pills, and beta-blockers, so consult the Doctor before taking it.

Natural/Home remedies for Hypothyroidism are always preferred as herbal remedies help to maintain the health of the thyroid gland and the hormonal level with negligible side effects.

Let us discuss these home/natural remedies.

Take foods rich in Vit A. – Eggs, Carrot.
Include shellfish and seaweed in your diet as it is rich in Iodine.
Monitor your hormonal levels regularly.
Do regular exercises.
Herbal tea with Ginger is advisable.
The patient may have a problem of itching and irritation on the skin. Hence, in such a condition, use Aloe vera and Oatmeal to relieve the dryness of the skin.
Take the combination of Spirulina, Black pepper (Piper nigrum), and Awla. (Emblica officinals E: Indian gooseberry). If powder is not available, take the herbal supplement containing Spirulina, Black pepper, and Awla. (Emblica officinals E: Indian gooseberry). In Indian stores, this combination is available in tablet form.

Ref. natural news.com/00970.html.

Monitor your hormonal levels regularly.

Avoid

Soft drinks, Soya, Discard all nonstick cookware, refined food, Cabbage, Pear, white flour, coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks.

Though I have mentioned the quantity of ingredients in some Natural Home Remedies, consult the Ayurvedic Physician for the quantity of ingredients and also for Natural Home Remedies before taking them.