The thyroid is perhaps the most important endocrine gland in the entire body. Among the many things controlled by the thyroid are protein synthesis, the sensitivity of the body to hormones, and the rate energy sources are being utilized. Given its important role in a number of body systems, it should come as no surprise that when things go wrong in the thyroid, a cascade of negative events take place. Whether the thing that goes wrong is an autoimmune disease or an acquired one, getting it taken care of as soon as possible is of the utmost importance.
The thyroid itself is primarily made up of cells which are used to secrete hormones. Nerves directly interact with these cells to influence production and stimulate an increase or decrease in relative hormone levels.
Symptoms
Symptoms of thyroid issues may not present themselves or become obvious for years, even when the thyroid is on the decline. Here are some things you can be on the lookout for:
- Increased levels of water retention around the eyes, in the hands, and in the feet leading to bloating.
- Swelling and thickening of the tongue and related areas which can lead to slurred speech and hoarseness.
- Dry skin, hair, and brittle nails.
- Loss of libido.
- Muscle weakness and joint stiffness.
- Psychological issues such as depression, weakness, or abnormally frequent fatigue, even after rest.
Prevention
Prevention and early intervention is the key to long-term care of the thyroid. Typically, thyroid issues are treated with specific thyroid medications or even a supplementation of thyroid hormones. Alternative treatments aim to help nutrients get to the area and improve the tissues there. There are a number of things that a person can do in order to maintain and improve the health of their thyroid, though it is essential that you first get a baseline reading to find out where you stand. Here are a few suggestions:
- Take Vitamin A and Zinc supplements. These will help with hormone receptor binding and help improve the effectiveness of the thyroid.
- Eliminate foods that are known to have immunogenic effects such as wheat and dairy. This will help to eliminate potential adverse reactions within the thyroid.
- Exercise on a regular basis. This serves to improve tissue sensitivity, decreases stress in the body, and helps to stimulate the synthesis of thyroid hormone.
- Try acupuncture. It has been shown to not only promote increased sensitivity in the body to thyroid hormones.
- Make sure you are getting enough iodine. Iodine is essentially the precursor to many of the hormones produced by the thyroid. As such, if you don’t have enough, your thyroid is not going to work properly.
Make your appointment with Dr. Forman today for a complete evaluation of your body’s systems, including your thyroid. If any of your body’s systems are out of balance, we offer all-natural, drug-free solutions to address the underlying cause — not just the symptoms.
305-741-2102