4 Common Thyroid Disorders You Need To Be Aware Of

Thyroid disorders are becoming a very common occurrence, and affects upward of 20 million Americans and 80% of incidences affect women. Regardless, thyroid affects both men and women, and taking care of it is an issue of importance for both. Thyroid is part of your endocrine system, and if it is not functioning properly, you are bound to face its physical repercussions.

Thyroid produces the hormone that controls many important activities in your body like your metabolism rate. When your thyroid does not function properly, it either makes too much or too little hormone. Dr. Aaron Richardet, with years of experience and expertise under his belt, has helped many patients suffering from thyroid disorders over the course of his practice.

Not everybody has the same kind of thyroid disorder. Given below are some of the commonly occurring thyroid disorders.

Hyperthyroidism

This condition occurs when the thyroid is overactive and produces T3/T4 hormones in abundance. This speeds up many of your body's functions like your metabolism and heart rate. Its symptoms include goiter, heart palpitations, anxiety, excess sweating, weight loss, and muscle weakness. Usually beta blockers, anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine, and in some cases surgery are recommended to control the condition. Patients are advised to avoid goitrogenic foods and fluoride, and reduce gluten and dairy casein. You also need to get enough sleep, meditate, and reduce stress.

Hypothyroidism

On the other end of the spectrum is is an underactive thyroid gland that produces inadequate amount of T3/T4 hormones. The symptoms of this condition include weight gain, fatigue, intolerance to cold, hair loss, dry skin, brittle hair and nails, and irritability. The natural methods employed to treat this condition is similar to hyperthyroidism. Being physically active is especially important to boost your sluggish, underactive gland.

Hashimoto's Disease

This is an autoimmune disorder whereby the thyroid gland is attacked by the immune system in response to the antibodies that are produced as a result of exposure to allergens. This reacts with the cells and tissues of the thyroid, which causes inflammation of the gland. The patient experiences similar symptoms as the other thyroid disorders, like, fatigue, intolerance to cold, weight gain, paleness, joint and muscle pain, brittle hair and nails, and depression. Medical experts believe that foreign substances like virus and bacteria initiate the process of this condition, along with iodine deficiency, fluoride exposure, Vitamin D deficiency, and gluten allergy.

Thyroiditis

An inflammation of the thyroid is known as thyroiditis. This happens when the body's immune system makes antibodies that attack the thyroid. Thyroiditis occurs on account of autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, genetic condition, viral or bacterial infection, and certain types of medicines. Depending on the type of thyroiditis, the medications vary, as patients are treated on a case by case basis.

The amount of people affected by thyroid disorders are on the rise. So, it is in your best interests to consult your physician at the earliest, so that you can get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Aaron Richardet combines the best medical techniques to ensure his patients get the most effective treatment, and helps accelerate their journey to good health.