Battle of the Thyroids: Hypothyroidism Vs. Hyperthyroidism
Your Guide to Understanding and Treating Them
Thyroid troubles can be a tricky business to navigate. With so many different terms and conditions to understand, figuring out what’s happening with your body can be overwhelming. One of the most common thyroid conditions is thyroid dysfunction, affecting millions worldwide. But what exactly is thyroid dysfunction, and what are the different types?
In this article, we’ll dive into the differences between the most common thyroid conditions: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. From the symptoms to the treatment options, this article will provide you with all the information you need to understand and manage your thyroid condition. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of thyroid troubles!
Hypothyroidism Vs. Hyperthyroidism: What’s the Difference?
The main difference between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism is the amount of thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, happens when the thyroid gland doesn’t make enough thyroid hormones to meet the body’s needs. Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, occurs when the body produces too much thyroid hormone. Let’s take a look at these conditions in more detail.
What Is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate many bodily functions, including metabolism, temperature, and energy levels. The body can’t function properly without enough thyroid hormones, and many symptoms can occur.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
The symptoms of hypothyroidism can vary from person to person, but some of the most common ones include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and hair loss. Other symptoms may include feeling cold all the time, depression, muscle weakness, and joint pain. In some cases, hypothyroidism can also cause goiter, an enlarged thyroid gland.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
Autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, radiation therapy, and certain medications are risk factors for hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism can also be congenital in some cases, meaning it’s present at birth.
Diagnosing Hypothyroidism
If you suspect hypothyroidism, seeing a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis is essential. Your healthcare provider may perform a physical exam, order blood tests to measure your thyroid hormone levels, and possibly order imaging tests such as a thyroid ultrasound.
Treatment Options for Hypothyroidism
Two main types of thyroid hormone replacement medications are synthetic and non-synthetic. Synthetic thyroid medications such as Levothyroxine (Levo-T, Synthroid, Tirosint, Unithroid) are the most commonly prescribed medications for hypothyroidism. These medications contain synthetic thyroxine (T4), identical to the hormone produced by the thyroid gland.
Armour Thyroid is a non-synthetic medication made from the thyroid glands of pigs and contains both T4 and T3 hormones. Armour Thyroid efficiently reduces symptoms of hypothyroidism, has minimal side effects, is well-absorbed by the intestine (around 70-80%), and provides consistent results. According to research, some patients may feel better on Armour Thyroid than Levothyroxine.
If you’re taking Levothyroxine, switching to Armor Thyroid is possible. A study found that the safe and effective dose conversion from Levothyroxine to Armour Thyroid was possible in participants. It’s essential to consult with your doctor before switching any medication.
Natural Remedies for Hypothyroidism
There are a lot of things you can do to support your body if you have hypothyroidism. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet can go a long way in keeping your body overall. In particular, though, staying away from artificial sweeteners is vital as there is evidence that artificial sweeteners could damage the thyroid.
Several natural remedies may help manage the symptoms of mild hypothyroidism. One such remedy is ashwagandha, an herb that improves thyroid function in people with mild hypothyroidism. Another natural remedy is selenium, an essential mineral for thyroid function and may also help improve thyroid hormone levels. Essential oils and vitamin B may also be beneficial for managing the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Natural remedies are not a substitute for medical treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before using a natural remedy.
What Is Hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. The body’s metabolic rate speeds up, leading to an overactive thyroid and a range of symptoms.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism
The symptoms of hyperthyroidism can also vary from person to person, but some of the most common ones include weight loss, increased appetite, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. Other symptoms may include muscle weakness, trembling hands, and menstrual irregularities in women.
Causes of Hyperthyroidism
Many conditions lead to hyperthyroidism. Autoimmune diseases such as Graves’ disease, thyroid nodules, and thyroiditis are all risk factors for hyperthyroidism. Sometimes, taking too much iodine or certain medications can cause hyperthyroidism.
Diagnosing Hyperthyroidism
If you suspect hyperthyroidism, seeing a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis is essential. Your healthcare provider may perform a physical exam, order blood tests to measure your thyroid hormone levels, and possibly order imaging tests such as a thyroid ultrasound.
Treatment Options for Hyperthyroidism
The treatment for hyperthyroidism will depend on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, blocking the production of thyroid hormones with medication is necessary. In other cases, using radioactive iodine to destroy the thyroid gland is an option, and surgery to remove the thyroid gland may be the best option.
Propylthiouracil and methimazole are the two medications used to treat hyperthyroidism. Both drugs work by inhibiting the function of an enzyme called thyroid peroxidase (TPO), which produces thyroid hormones. TPO typically converts iodide to iodine, a necessary step in producing thyroid hormone. By inhibiting TPO, propylthiouracil and methimazole decrease thyroid hormone production, bringing levels back to a normal range. Methimazole is usually preferred over propylthiouracil because it has fewer side effects and reverses hyperthyroidism more quickly.
How to Live with Thyroid Problems
Living with thyroid problems can be challenging, but there are things that you can do to manage your condition and improve your overall health. Some tips for living with thyroid problems include:
Getting regular check-ups with your healthcare provider
Taking your medication as prescribed
Eating a healthy, balanced diet
Getting regular exercise
Managing stress levels
Getting enough sleep
Conclusion
Thyroid problems can be complex and challenging to manage, but with the proper diagnosis and treatment, one can live a healthy, happy life. Whether dealing with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, seeing a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is essential. By taking care of your thyroid health and prioritizing your overall well-being, you can manage your condition and live a fulfilling life.
If you are experiencing thyroid challenges, please contact us to see how we can help. We can develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs and enables you to get back to living your life to the fullest.