Due to this busy and unbalanced lifestyle nowadays, thyroid disorder is very common. Hyperthyroidism disease caused by overactive thyroid gland. Let us tell you that it is very difficult to recover completely from thyroid disease, in order to get rid of it, the patient will have to take medicines continuously and balance his diet and lifestyle.
What is Thyroid ?
Thyroid is a hormone producing gland in our body. It produces thyroid hormones, the thyroid gland, also known as the thyroid gland, is one of the largest endocrine glands found in the human body. This bipartite structure is located in our throat below the larynx almost at the same level as the cricoid cartilage. The thyroid gland has a special contribution in the metabolism of our body. This gland secretes hormones called thyrothyronine (T4), tri-iodothyronine (T3) and thyrocalcitinin, these hormones affect the metabolic rate of the body and control all the processes and movements of the body. Normal thyroid hormone regulates the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates in the body and lowers the amount of sugar, cholesterol and phospholipids in the blood.
Apart from this, it controls muscle, sexual and mental growth and heart rate and blood pressure. There are two types of disorders related to this gland.
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland starts producing hormones in excess, due to which the metabolism also becomes hyperactive. Due to hyperthyroidism, abnormal body weight starts decreasing and also the heartbeat becomes abnormal.
What is Hyperthyroidism ?
Hyperthyroidism is a disease caused by overactive thyroid gland. The thyroid gland in the neck makes thyroid hormone, which controls many of the body’s activities. Like, checking the rate of calcium in blood, strengthening metabolism, controlling heart rate, nervous system and body temperature etc. When thyroid hormones are produced in excess, the condition is called hyperthyroidism.
The pituitary gland and the hypothalamus release TSH and TRH when there are problems with thyroid production. It is a disease causes by hyperactivity of the thyroid gland. Due to its hyperactivity, T4 and T3 hormones are produce in excess. When these hormones are produce in excess, the body starts using energy in excess. This problem is found more in women than in men.
Thyroid problem is found less in children as compare to adults, but if this problem occurs in children, then it becomes a more serious condition because it directly affects the physical and mental development of children. TSH (Thyroid Stimulating hormone) test is necessary. There is a fear of mental retardation in children due to thyroid hormone disorder. Hyperactivity of the thyroid gland i.e. hyperthyroidism is rarely seen in children and it occurs in just born babies, hence it is know as Neonatal Hyperthyroidism.
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are :
- Due to the excess of thyroid hormone in the body, metabolism or metabolism increases and every action starts happening fast.
- Nervousness
- irritability
- excessive sweating
- trembling hands
- Thinning and falling of hair.
- insomnia
- Weakness and pain in the muscles.
- Increase in heart rate
- Persistent loss of weight despite great appetite and eating.
- Menstrual irregularities in women.
Causes of Hyperthyroidism
There are many reasons behind hyperthyroidism, one is due to some disease, the other is also due to lifestyle, diet, heredity. First know which diseases cause hyperthyroidism :
1) Hashimoto’s disease :
This disease makes any one part of the thyroid gland inactive.
2) Thyroiditis :
This is due to inflammation in the thyroid gland. In the beginning there is excess production of thyroid hormone and later it decreases due to which hypothyroidism occurs. Sometimes it is seen in women after pregnancy.
3) Graves’ Disease :
Graves’ disease is the main cause of hyperthyroidism in adults. In this disease, the body’s immune system starts producing antibodies that increase TSH. It is a genetic disease that runs from generation to generation.
4) Goitre :
Due to goitre disease.
5) Vitamin B12 :
Vitamin B12 can also cause hyperthyroidism.
6) Overactive thyroid nodules :
Thyroid nodules are fluid-filled lumps that cause increased nodule thyroxine production. According to doctors, it is a genetic disease.
7) Excessive iodine intake :
People who consume more iodine get this disease easily, but it is not necessary that it affects everyone, some people do not make much difference to it, but many people become victims of thyroid.
Apart from this, there is a risk of hyperthyroidism due to diet, lifestyle and heredity:
- Living a more stressful life affects the activation of thyroid hormones.
- The thyroid glands are particularly affecte by the high or low iodine content in the diet.
- This disease can also be genetic. If other members of the family have also had this problem, then it is more likely to happen.
- An imbalance in thyroid hormones is seen during pregnancy in women as there are many hormonal changes in the body of women at this time.
- Due to excessive use of soy products in food.
Risk of Hyperthyroidism
Although thyroid can happen to anyone, but the risk of hyperthyroidism is very high in some people like :
- Women
- People over the age of 60
- Heredity
- After pregnancy
- Have thyroid surgery
- Heart palpitations
- Type 1 diabetes
- Deficiency of Iodine
- Hormonal imbalance
- Due to excess iodine
How to Prevent Hyperthyroidism ?
Generally, the problem of hyperthyroidism occurs due to unbalanced diet and lifestyle. For this, by making some changes in your lifestyle and diet, the problem of hyperthyroidism can be brought under control to some extent. The lifestyle and diet mentioned below can help you deal with hyperthyroidism :
- Consume a low fat diet in thyroid disease.
- Include more and more fruits and vegetables in the food. Especially eat green leafy vegetables, they contain proper amount of iron which is beneficial for thyroid patients.
- Eat nutritious food, taking food rich in minerals and vitamins helps with thyroid control.
- Consume more nuts like almonds, cashews and sunflower seeds, they contain sufficient amount of copper which is beneficial in thyroid.
- Consume more milk and curd.
- Consume more Vitamin-A, eat carrots.
- Avoid junk food and preservative-rich food completely.
- Do exercise, pranayama, yoga and meditation regularly.
- Try to live a stress free life.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol etc.
- Consume whole grains, they are rich in fiber, protein and vitamins.
- Consume wheat and sorghum.
How is Hyperthyroidism Diagnosed ?
To diagnose hyperthyroidism, your physical examination is first done, in which swelling in your neck etc. is examine. Also, during this time you are ask about the symptoms you are feeling and all the previous information related to your health is taken. According to the results of all these tests, the doctor may also do the following tests to confirm hyperthyroidism :
1) Blood test :
With the help of this test, the level of T4 and TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) in the blood is checked.
2) Thyroid ultrasound :
During this, swelling (goiter) or any type of lump in the thyroid is detected.
3) Thyroid scan :
If during the test doctors feel that there is some change in the shape of the thyroid gland, then they do thyroid scan test.
How is Hyperthyroidism Treated ?
- Doctors can treat hyperthyroidism by reducing the levels of thyroid hormones in your body. Hormone levels can be reduce by drugs, radiation therapy, or surgery.
- Medicines may be needs for a few months, a few years or even more. Propyluracil (PTU) and methimazole are drugs that block the production of thyroid hormones. These can be use as the main therapy or in preparation for other treatments.
- Radioactive iodine is use to destroy the thyroid. This therapy is useful for people over the age of 21 who cannot control their disease with medicines.
- There is surgery for people with an enlarged thyroid gland, for people who do not want to use radioactive iodine. Pregnant women may also require surgery.
Home Remedies for Hyperthyroidism
Generally, to get relief from hyperthyroidism, people rely on home remedies first. Let us know which are the home remedies which help in curing hyperthyroidism :
1) Turmeric milk has been use for the treatment of various diseases. Similarly, drinking turmeric cooked in milk daily provides relief from the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
2) By the way, it is believe that bottle gourd helps in keeping the stomach calm as well as improves digestion power. Perhaps you do not know that regular consumption of bottle gourd juice also helps in relieving hyperthyroidism.
3) Black pepper is also very beneficial for hyperthyroidism patients. Consume black pepper as per the doctor’s advice.
4) Both Aloe vera and Tulsi (basil) not only help in getting rid of skin related or cold-cough problems but also help in getting relief from hyperthyroidism. Mixing half a spoon of aloe vera juice in two spoons of basil juice and consuming it gives benefits.
5) Ashwagandha (Indian Ginseng) has been use for the treatment of various diseases. To get relief from hyperthyroidism, taking one spoon of Ashwagandha powder with lukewarm cow’s milk at bedtime gives quick relief.
6) According to research, the main component triterpenoid glyceric acid found in licorice is highly aggressive, which prevents thyroid cancer cells from growing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When to contact a doctor?
See your doctor right away if you experience sudden weight loss, an increased heartbeat, unusual sweating, swelling below your neck, or other symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism. Tell your doctor about these symptoms in detail because many signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism can be associate with other diseases.
Is hyperthyroidism a common disease?
Hyperthyroidism is a common disease. The disease is three times more common in women than in men. You can reduce your chances of getting hyperthyroidism by reducing its causes. Consult your doctor for more details.
What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
Nervousness, sweating, fatigue and rapid heartbeat, burning sensation in the eyes, weight loss, high fever and frequent bowel movements or diarrhea are some of the common symptoms of this disease. If you have any concerns about any of the symptoms, consult a doctor.
What are the causes of hyperthyroidism?
The most common cause of this disease is Graves’ disease. This disease is the cause of 80% to 90% of cases in hyperthyroidism. Other common causes include thyroiditis, toxic adenoma, and using too much thyroid medication. Thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid. Adenoma is a thyroid tumor, which makes thyroid hormone. This disease is genetic but, it is not contagious.
Can hyperthyroidism be cured on its own?
In many cases, hyperthyroidism is self-correcting, usually in most cases, the low level of TSH in the blood returns to normal within a few months and the thyroid can heal on its own.
In how many days hyperthyroid gets cured?
If you keep taking the right dosage of medicines from time to time, then you can get rid of this disease soon. Apart from this, how long it will take you to recover depends on the condition of your thyroid.
Can I eat peanut butter if I have thyroid?
Peanut butter and peanuts might worsen hypothyroidism. They are generally advise to be avoide in case of hypothyroidism.
What foods should I avoid if I have hyperthyroidism?
Food that contains excess iodine.
Do children get hyperthyroidism disease?
This occurs if the mother already has Graves’ disease, due to which thyro-stimulating antibodies present in the mother’s blood cross the placenta and stimulate the thyroid gland of the fetus and lead to overproduction of thyroid hormones. Normally, these antibodies are only in small amounts, so it does not cause any significant harm to the baby.
(Disclaimer : The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Always consult your doctor for more details.)
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