Goiter Causes and Remedy
June 26, 2009
Inflammation of the thyroid gland is known as goiter. The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland in our neck. In majority of goiter cases, the swellings are small. However, in some instances the size of the swelling may be large enough to cause difficulties in breathing and swallowing. Compared to men, goiter occurs more in women.
Causes of goiter
Several factors might be responsible for goiter. Iron deficiency is chiefly responsible for development of goiter. Iodine deficiency is a significant problem of the developing countries, which suffer from overall nutritional deficiency.
However, in recent years iodine deficiency is also noticeable in the developed countries. Low salt and non-dairy diet is perhaps responsible for iodine deficiency in these countries. Recent studies have linked goiter to smoking. Thiocyanate, a chemical present in tobacco smoke, is capable of inhibiting absorption of iodine in the body.
Hyperthyroidism or over active thyroid gland can also cause goiter. Goiter can also occur when the thyroid gland becomes under active, a condition known as hypothyroidism.
Hormonal changes during adolescence and pregnancy can cause goiter. Goiter can develop from certain bacterial, viral and parasitic infections. Intake of excess spinach, soy products and peanuts could reduce the action of the thyroid gland, causing goiter.
Popular goiter treatment includes shrinking the gland through radioactive iodine therapy, removing parts of the gland through surgery, using iodine supplements or thyroid hormone supplements.
Although, iodine supplements may be recommended for treating goiter, but consuming iodine from food helps in better absorption of the mineral. Seafoods and sea salt is a good source of iodine. Egg yolk is also rich in this mineral. Among fruits and vegetables, iodine can be found in garlic, onion, carrot, lettuce, tomatoes, turnips, pineapples, strawberries, watercress, guavas and citrus fruits.
To reduce discomfort caused by swelling of the thyroid gland, smear dandelion leaf with clarified butter. Warm it and place it over the swelling. Continuing this treatment for about a fortnight will gradually help to reduce the discomfort.
Flex seeds can be used to reduce discomfort caused by the inflammation of the thyroid gland. Blend flex seeds with water, heat the paste, and apply it on the swelled area. This will gradually reduce the swelling.
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