Living With Hyperthyroidism
September 10, 2009
The tiny butterfly shaped gland in our neck is called the thyroid gland. The hormones produced by this gland control the metabolism process of the body.
If for some reason the thyroid gland becomes overactive, it would produce excess hormones, escalating the body’s metabolism. This condition characterized by an overactive thyroid gland is known as hyperthyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism causes
Overwhelming majority of hyperthyroidism is caused by Graves’ disease. This is an autoimmune disease. The antibodies produced by the immune cells are directed against the thyroid gland. They act like hormone stimulating hormones, forcing the thyroid gland to increase the production of the thyroid hormones.
Although, Graves disease might occur at any age, nonetheless, the incidence of the disease in greater between 20 and 40 year old individuals. Compared to men, women are more susceptible to Graves’ disease. In lesser number of hyperthyroidism cases, nodular thyroid disease is responsible for the condition. Unlike Graves’ disease, the symptoms of the nodular thyroid disease are concentrated only within the thyroid gland. It occurs mostly in individuals above 40.
The thyroid becomes enlarged and nodules might be felt when the thyroid gland is touched with the finger. Thyroiditis or inflammation of the thyroid gland can also cause hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroid can also develop from hormones secreted by tumors in the pituitary gland and ovary. Hyperthyroidism might be the side effect of medications containing iodine.
Hyperthyroidism symptoms
People suffering from hyperthyroidism experience rapid weight loss, even with normal appetite. The heartbeat increases. Excess sweating, nervousness, sleeping difficulties, fatigue, muscle weakness and diarrhea are other common symptoms of an overactive thyroid gland. Hyperthyroidism even causes menstrual problems, including absence of menstruation in women.
Hyperthyroidism home remedies
Vegetables of the brassica family are known to reduce the secretion of excess thyroid hormones. Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, radish, mustard are some of the brassica vegetables that should be included in the diet of hyperthyroidism patients.
Hyperthyroidism patients should limit intake of dairy products. Alcohol, caffeine and colas should be avoided. Herbs such as lemon balm and turmeric could reduce the hyperactivity of the thyroid gland. Sea greens can also help to alleviate the discomforts associated with an overactive thyroid gland.
Comments
Got something to say? Join the conversation and leave a comment below.