It is estimated that approximately 1 in 20 people in the United States suffer from an underactive thyroid, more commonly known as hypothyroidism. Underactive thyroid is caused by an imbalance of hormones in the body that are produced by the thyroid gland.
There may be a variety of causes for hypothyroidism; however, it is mostly attributed to an autoimmune condition known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This condition can cause the body to attack its own thyroid, leading to a reduced production of hormones that are responsible for metabolic processes.
Other causes of hypothyroidism may include lack of iodine in the diet, radiation therapy to the neck, certain medications, and age-related changes. People who are over the age of 60 are more likely to suffer from hypothyroidism, as well as post-menopausal women and those with a family history of the condition.
It is important to recognize the symptoms of underactive thyroid, as they can have a significant impact on one’s overall health and well-being. This can include fatigue, feeling cold all the time, mental fog, dry skin, and joint pain.
If you think you may be suffering from an underactive thyroid, it is important to consult your doctor right away.
Why do so many people have low thyroid?
Or hypothyroidism. One of the most common causes is an autoimmune disorder, such as Hashimoto’s disease, which leads to the body’s immune system attacking the cells of the thyroid gland and damaging its ability to produce enough of the hormone.
Other factors that might lead to low thyroid include taking certain medications, iodine deficiency, inflammatory diseases like sarcoidosis, pituitary gland dysfunction, radiation treatment, chemotherapy, genetic disorders, and pregnancy.
Additionally, although rare, tumors of the thyroid or pituitary gland can also cause it.
It is essential to diagnose and treat low thyroid since the hormone is essential for keeping the body functioning properly. Without proper levels of the hormone, the body’s metabolism will slow down and lead to a variety of symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, weight gain, constipation, depression, and dry skin among others.
To alleviate this, a doctor may recommend taking a daily dosage of thyroxine tablets, which are synthetic hormones that replace the missing ones in the body, restoring their balance and thus improving the symptoms.
Why is hypothyroidism so common now?
Hypothyroidism is becoming increasingly common due to a variety of factors. First of all, environmental factors such as exposure to toxins, the consumption of certain foods and the use of medications all contribute to hypothyroidism, particularly in those who are genetically predisposed to the condition.
Additionally, other medical conditions/illnesses, such as diabetes and autoimmune disorders, can contribute to the development of hypothyroidism.
Furthermore, as the population ages, hypothyroid awareness increases, leading to a greater number of diagnosed cases. As people become more aware of hypothyroidism, more hypothyroid cases can be diagnosed.
Finally, since hypothyroidism can cause significant changes in hormones, it can be hard for those living with the condition to get an accurate diagnosis, leading many to remain undiagnosed and causing the number of cases to rise.
What triggers low thyroid?
Or hypothyroidism. The most common cause is an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which is caused when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own thyroid tissue. Other causes of low thyroid can include radiation exposure, medications, some types of surgery, iodine deficiency, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and pituitary disorders.
Some people may also have an inherited tendency to develop hypothyroidism due to a genetic mutation in the thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor. It’s also possible for other conditions to cause the body’s thyroid-stimulating hormone to become too active (hyperthyroidism) or to become underactive (hypothyroidism).
The treatment for low thyroid depends on the underlying cause, but typically involves hormone replacement therapy with synthetic thyroid hormones.
How common is thyroid deficiency?
Thyroid deficiency, or hypothyroidism, is a relatively common condition. It is estimated that around 20 million people in the United States have some form of thyroid deficiency, with women being more likely to be affected than men.
Worldwide, an estimated 200 million people are affected by hypothyroidism. The most common form of thyroid deficiency is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which is an autoimmune thyroid condition. Another common form of hypothyroidism is caused by iodine deficiency.
The prevalence of hypothyroidism increases with age. By the time individuals reach their 60s, the prevalence of thyroid deficiency is estimated to be around 10 percent or higher. However, it is important to note that thyroid deficiency can occur at any age.
Thyroid deficiencies are also more common among certain groups of people. Women, individuals who have a family history of thyroid disease, and people who live in areas where iodine is scarce are all more likely to be affected by this condition.
Thyroid deficiency can cause a range of complications if left untreated. Common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, depression, dry skin, and difficulty concentrating. It is important for individuals who may be at risk for thyroid deficiency to get their thyroid levels checked regularly.
Early detection and treatment can help to reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Can low thyroid go away?
Yes, low thyroid can go away in certain cases. Underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, is usually caused by an autoimmune disorder, in which your own antibodies attack the thyroid gland, or an iodine deficiency in the diet.
In either case, the right treatment is essential to get the thyroid gland back on track and relieve symptoms. If these treatments are successful, then the thyroid will often return to normal and the symptoms of low thyroid can resolve.
However, it’s also possible for people to have hypothyroidism for their entire lives, and have to take medication and receive other treatments to continually regulate the thyroid gland. If you think you might have low thyroid, be sure to speak with your doctor for the best course of action for your individual case.
How can I boost my thyroid naturally?
There are several all-natural methods for boosting your thyroid health and function.
1. Diet: Eating certain foods can help to boost thyroid function. Foods that are rich in zinc, selenium, iron, and iodine are particularly beneficial to thyroid health as they are essential for its functioning.
Foods such as lean proteins, nuts, beans, whole grains, leafy greens, and low-fat dairy products contain these essential minerals and should be incorporated into your diet.
2. Exercise: Regular exercise helps to stimulate the functioning of the thyroid gland. Regular physical activity, such as walking and light weight lifting, helps the body distribute more hormones in the area, resulting in better thyroid functioning.
3. Reduce Stress: Manage your stress levels as high levels of stress have been linked to thyroid issues. Try yoga or meditation to help reduce stress and improve natural thyroid function.
4. Herbal Remedies: There are certain herbs that can be used to support the health of the thyroid. Some of these natural remedies include ashwagandha, passionflower, and bugleweed.
5. Supplements: Taking certain supplements may be helpful for promoting thyroid health. Some of these include iodine, zinc, omega 3 fatty acids, and probiotics. Talk to your doctor or health care provider before taking any supplements to ensure they are right for you and your health history.
What is the downside to taking levothyroxine?
Levothyroxine is a synthetic version of the main hormone produced by the thyroid gland, known as thyroxine or T4. It works to replace or supplement this hormone when the body is unable to produce enough of it on its own.
This is usually the case with individuals with an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism.
Though taking levothyroxine can be effective in treating hypothyroidism, it does come with some downsides. These include increased risk for side effects such as:
-Headaches
-Insomnia
-Nausea and vomiting
-Change in appetite
-Weight gain
-Mood swings
– Joint pain
-Hair loss
-Irregular or rapid heartbeat
For those taking higher doses of levothyroxine, there is an increased risk of osteoporosis and brittle bones. This is due to the fact that levothyroxine can cause the body to absorb calcium in an excessive manner.
Another potential downside to taking levothyroxine is an increased sensitivity to sun exposure. It is important that those taking this medication consistently wear sunscreen and avoid long periods of time in direct sunlight.
Finally, individuals taking levothyroxine should also be mindful of potential interactions with other medications. Certain over-the-counter and prescription medications, including antacids, iron, and calcium supplements, can interfere with how well levothyroxine works.
Therefore, it is important to consult with a doctor before taking any other medication, particularly if you are taking levothyroxine.
Can low thyroid levels go back to normal?
Yes, low thyroid levels can go back to normal. The most common cause of low thyroid levels is hypothyroidism, which is a condition in which your body does not produce enough of the thyroid hormone. Fortunately, hypothyroidism can be treated with medication and lifestyle changes.
Medications such as Levothyroxine can be used to increase thyroid hormone production and the dose may need to be adjusted over time to bring it back to the normal level. It is also important to make lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep, eating an adequate diet and exercising regularly to help improve hormone levels.
Additionally, stress management and avoiding environmental toxins can also be helpful in managing thyroid levels. With proper management, low thyroid levels can return to normal and help you achieve optimal health.
Is low thyroid temporary?
No, low thyroid is not typically temporary. Low thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism, is a medical condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. It is usually caused by an autoimmune disorder like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
In some cases, it is the result of surgical removal of the thyroid or radiation therapy. While treatment options are available, it is generally a lifelong condition that must be managed with medication.
It is important to visit your doctor regularly to monitor your levels and adjust medication as needed.
Can an underactive thyroid be temporary?
Yes, an underactive thyroid can be temporary. This is known as subclinical hypothyroidism, which is when your thyroid hormone levels are lower than normal, but not low enough to cause typical symptoms of an underactive thyroid.
This can sometimes resolve itself with rest and adequate nutrition, as well as an increase in intake of iodine-rich foods, such as seaweed, seafood and iodized salt. However, if the your thyroid hormone levels remain low after trying lifestyle changes and/or if your symptoms worsen, you should consult a doctor for further testing and treatment.
Can your thyroid return to normal?
Yes, it is possible for the thyroid to return to normal. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and other bodily functions.
When the thyroid is functioning abnormally, it can cause symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, depression, and dry skin.
The most common cause of abnormal thyroid function is an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In this condition, the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid and damages it, resulting in an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
Treatments for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may include thyroid hormone replacement therapy. In some cases, a person’s thyroid may go back to functioning normally with the right dosage of medication.
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress, and avoiding certain foods that may trigger autoimmune flare-ups can help support optimal thyroid health.
Other treatments such as acupuncture, yoga, and relaxation techniques may also be beneficial.
Overall, the thyroid can return to normal depending on the cause of the abnormal function and the treatments used. A holistic approach that combines medical treatments and lifestyle changes can be an effective way to support optimal thyroid health.
Can you go from underactive thyroid to over active?
Yes, it is possible to transition from an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) to an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). This transition is known as Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, leading to both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism at different points in time.
During the periods of hypothyroidism, there is a reduction in the production of hormones, including those released by the thyroid, leading to a decreased metabolic rate and symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, constipation, and dry skin.
During the periods of hyperthyroidism, there is an increased production of hormones, leading to increased metabolic rate and symptoms such as hyperactivity, anxiety, insomnia, heat intolerance, and weight loss.
Since Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition, treatments are typically focused on suppressing the immune system and restoring balance to the thyroid levels.
How do I get my thyroid back to normal?
In order to get your thyroid back to normal, it is important to balance the thyroid hormones in your body. This can be done by getting regular thyroid function tests, avoiding certain foods, stress, and other lifestyle factors that can affect your thyroid health.
Additionally, it is important to get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and manage stress levels to help balance thyroid hormones in the body.
It is also important to address any underlying health issues that may be causing your thyroid imbalance. Anemia, a low-functioning adrenal gland, infections, and other conditions may need to be treated in order to restore your thyroid to normal.
Finally, it may be helpful to consult with an expert in the field such as an endocrinologist, nutritionist, or holistic practitioner who can help you determine what is causing your thyroid imbalance and guide you toward the best treatment plan for restoring it to normal.
How long does it take to correct low thyroid levels?
The amount of time it takes to correct low thyroid levels depends on several factors, including the severity of the thyroid hormone deficiency and the individual’s underlying health and lifestyle. If left untreated, low thyroid hormone levels can lead to serious health issues, such as fatigue and weight gain.
Generally, replacing thyroid hormone with medication will show a response quickly, usually in a matter of days. However, it often takes much longer for the full course of treatment to take hold—sometimes months or even years.
It is important to follow the recommended treatment plan closely, take medications as prescribed, and monitor thyroid levels regularly.
In some cases, lifestyle changes can help boost low thyroid levels. Eating a healthy diet that includes foods that are rich in iodine, selenium, and other nutrients can help support thyroid health. Getting regular exercise and reducing stress levels can also be beneficial.
Finally, avoiding certain substances and toxins, such as cigarette smoke and excessive alcohol, can also be beneficial.
With proper treatment, it is possible to bring low thyroid levels back to normal in many cases. As mentioned, this can take anywhere from a few days to many months depending on the individual, the severity of the condition, and the treatment plan that is prescribed.
