Underactive Thyroid

The thyroid gland is an Endocrine (meaning ductless) gland, which secretes its hormones directly into the bloodstream. It is located in the lower part of your neck. It wraps around your windpipe (trachea) like a bow tie, with two connecting lobes, and is well supplied with blood vessels.

The thyroid gland is located in the base of the neck on both sides of the lower part of the voice box (larynx ) and upper part of the wind pipe (trachea). The thyroid produces chemicals (hormones) that help the body control metabolism. Thyroid hormone is also produced in response to another hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone (becoming overactive), the condition is called Hyperthyroidism. When the thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone (becoming underactive), the condition is called Hypothyroidism. Underline thyroid dysfunction affects the frequency of ovulation and may even prevent it altogether.

Underactive Thyroid Causes

There are three main causes of this condition:
  • failure of the thyroid gland itself
  • failure of the feedback mechanism that prompt the thyroid gland to secrete more hormones
  • failure of body tissues to  use thyroid hormones properly.
  • Women are generally affected more than men, especially those who have experienced substantial weight loss or who have history of thyroid disorders in the family.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms

Pain in muscles and joints, carpal and tendonitis problems
These are signs of hypothyroidism. There is usually pain in the muscles and joints. One may develop carpal tunnel or tarsal tunnel. Carpal tunnel develops in the hands and arms and tarsal tunnel develops in the legs. If this condition is left undiagnosed then it can worsen the condition. The best way to combat this is to consume iodine through your daily diet and take medical help.

Enlargement and discomfort in the neck
If you have a swelling in the neck then don''t just ignore it for sore throat. If you have difficulty in speaking, and your throat hurts when wearing neckties or turtle necks then this could indicate a thyroid problem. You can take a simple test at home to determine if you have a thyroid problem. At home view the area below the Adams apple and above the collar bone in the mirror. Tip your head back and watch this area. Drink water and watch your throat while you swallow the water. See if you find any bulges at your neck or any abnormal protruding. If you have difficulty in swallowing or see anything abnormal then you must consult the doctor immediately.

Changes in the skin and hair
The skin and hair are very vulnerable to thyroid disorders. This change in the skin and hair is the result of hypothyroidism. The hair becomes dry and brittle and they break off very easily. Skin loses on the moisture and becomes coarse, scaly and dry. There is also unusual hair loss on the head and on the eyebrows. The skin and hair become thin and fragile.

These are the most common and initial signs of thyroid problems. Other problems include constipation, bowel problems, irregular menstrual cycle, fertility problem, family history, fatigue depression and anxiety. If you see signs of a thyroid problem then it is best to consult a doctor immediately and take care of your life style.

Underactive Thyroid Treatment

Hyporthyroidism is a complex disorder that must be treated with conventional medicine. Dietary measures. regular gentle exercise, and other lifestyle changes may be helpful as part of a holistic thyroid treatment plan. Acupuncture may help to encourage thyroid function as part of the harmonious functioning of the body as a whole, but complimentary therapies should never be substituted for prescribed drugs.




News