Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are the most prominent thyroid disorders. There is a lack of thyroid hormones in one case while there is an excess of thyroid hormones in the other. Therefore, treatment options differ depending on each patient’s disorder and the particulars of the case.
Thyroid disorders are diagnosed using:
- Patient’s medical history and physical examination: Physical examination might identify overactive reflexes, body temperature, eye movements, tremor in fingers etc. You will also be examined to see whether your gland is enlarged or tender while swallowing and the doctor will check the rapidness of your pulse.
- Blood tests: Blood tests are carried out to measure the levels of thyroxine and TSH in your blood. In case of overactive thyroid, there will be high levels of thyroxine and low or non-existent amounts of TSH. The amount of TSH is significant because it’s the TSH that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce more or less thyroxine. These tests are mainly necessary for aged people, who may not exhibit typical symptoms of thyroid disorders.
If tests indicate hyperthyroidism then there are other diagnostic tests to understand the cause:
- Radioiodine uptake test: For this test, you take a little dosage of radioactive iodine. The thyroid uses iodine to manufacture hormones and over a period, the iodine collects in your thyroid gland. You’ll be checked periodically to find out how much iodine your thyroid gland has absorbed. If the thyroid gland is hyperactive it will indicate too much uptake of radioiodine and if it is underactive, the uptake of radioiodine will be less.
- Thyroid scan: A radioactive isotope is injected in the vein and a special camera produces an image of your thyroid gland on a computer screen.
Treatments for hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are different and the best approach depends on your age, physical condition, the underlying cause and severity of the disorder. In case of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, the following are recommended:
- Hyperthyroidism: Intake of radioactive iodine shrinks the gland and makes the symptoms subside usually within three to six months. Antithyroid medications are recommended to reduce symptoms of hyperthyroidism by preventing your thyroid gland from producing excess amounts of hormones. Surgery (thyroidectomy) is a rare option to go for in case of pregnancy or otherwise who cannot have radioactive iodine therapy.
- Hypothyroidism: Conventional treatment for hypothyroidism involves taking medicines every day that restore sufficient hormone levels, reversing the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism.
All of the above treatments have some side effects and are expensive. There are some natural methods for treating thyroid problems which might help to a great extent in normalizing the thyroid level. But these natural remedies should be followed with some professional guidance by doctors. Iodine is a key mineral which helps in producing thyroid hormones. Hence, the proper intake of iodine is important to maintain healthy levels of hormones. Foods high in selenium helps balance T4 levels. Similarly, vitamins (especially vitamin B12) and zinc are required for thyroid health and may be consumed adequately. Get enough rest and manage stress effectively as stress elevates adrenaline and cortisol levels which have a negative impact on the body.
