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How Do I Know If I Have Them?
A doctor can diagnose hyperthyroidism and
hypothyroidism by testing the levels of thyroid hormones in your
blood. Doctors measure hormones secreted by the thyroid itself,
and also of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), a chemical released
by the pituitary gland that triggers hormone production in the
thyroid.
When you are hypothyroid, higher quantities of TSH are circulating
in your blood as your body attempts to foster increased production
of thyroid hormones; the reverse is true with hyperthyroidism,
in which TSH levels are below normal and circulating thyroid-hormone
levels are high.
What Are the Treatments?
For thyroid disorders stemming from the over- or underproduction
of thyroid hormones, both conventional and alternative treatments
offer varied methods to restore hormone levels to their proper
balance. Conventional treatments rely mainly on drugs and surgery.
Alternative treatments attempt to relieve some of the discomfort
associated with thyroid problems, or to improve the function
of the thyroid gland through a variety of approaches ranging
from diet supplements and herbal remedies to lifestyle changes
and special exercises. You should always receive a professional
evaluation for any thyroid disorder; most of these conditions
require a course of treatment beyond the scope of home care alone.
Conventional Medicine
Treating hyperthyroidism requires suppressing the manufacture
of thyroid hormone, while hypothyroidism demands hormone replacement.
Conventional medicine offers extremely effective techniques for
lowering, eliminating, or supplementing hormone production. Before
deciding which treatment is best for you, your doctor will make
an evaluation based on your particular thyroid condition as well
as your age, general health, and medical history.
Alternative Medicine
Thyroid problems are usually easily
corrected with conventional medicine. Consult your endocrinologist
about complementing your conventional treatment with alternative
therapies, which aim to cleanse the system, restore immune function,
and balance hormone production and release.
Naturopathy and TCM
A naturopath may treat your thyroid condition with homeopathic
mixtures, herbs, preparations based on traditional Chinese medicine
(TCM), and acupuncture.
TCM considers thyroid disease to result from emotional distress
and frustration. These block the life force energy (qi) in the
liver and spleen; herbs and acupuncture release the qi. Acupuncture
can reduce palpitations, irritability, and insomnia.
Naturopaths are authorized to treat thyroid disease in some states;
in others it is illegal. Check with your doctor or local health
authority to see if your state allows naturopathic interventions.
Body Work and Nutrition
Chiropractors and osteopaths use spinal manipulation to treat
thyroid disorders by reducing muscle tension and improving blood
circulation.
A diet rich in protein, calcium,
magnesium, and iodine supports thyroid
function. You want to be sure you are receiving enough of all
the B vitamins, vitamin
A, vitamin C, and selenium.
* SEASILVER contains ALL these vitamins/minerals and is
available from SeaSilverHolistic.com Seasilver is a complete nutritional
product made from 10 organic sea vegetables, Pau D'Arco, Aloe
Vera, and cranberry concentrate.
Avoid these products if you suffer from thyroid disease:
* The
herb ephedra, found in herbal formulas, and its extracts ephedrine
and pseudoephedrine, found in over-the-counter cold remedies,
which can cause nervousness, insomnia, headache, and high blood
pressure
* Alkaloids,
including substances such as caffeine, morphine, and quinine,
which increase blood pressure and heart rate
Reviewed by Michael W. Smith, MD, October 2001
Source: Copyright 1996-2002 WebMD Inc. All rights reserved.
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