The ABC of Thyroid: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Every year on May 25, World Thyroid Awareness Day is observed to bring attention to disorders, their causes, symptoms, and treatments. This day is devoted to persons suffering from thyroid problems and those trying to better understand and treat them worldwide. This day was established by the European Thyroid Association (ETA) in conjunction with the American Thyroid Association (ATA) and the Latin American Thyroid Society. 

Let us learn more about the thyroid and its illnesses on this World Thyroid Awareness Day: 
 

What Is THYROID? 

The thyroid gland is a small gland in the neck that resembles a butterfly. This gland’s primary function is to control the metabolic rate of the organism. A well-functioning gland contributes to maintaining the body’s optimal levels of these hormones. However, if the gland generates an excess or deficiency of thyroid hormones, it can result in a range of complications. A reduction in hormone produces hypothyroidism, which results in a rapid increase in weight, whereas an excess in this hormone causes hyperthyroidism. 

Possible CAUSES 
 

Several reasons, including iodine shortage, dysfunction of other vital glands, inflammation of the gland, etc., may contribute to a problem. 

Visible SYMPTOMS 

Symptoms of the thyroid vary based on the presence of thyroid hormones: 

Symptoms of an overactive thyroid (Hyperthyroidism) can include: 

• Anxiety, irritability, and nervousness. 

• Weight loss. 
• Tremors and muscle weakness. 
• Reduced Menstrual Flow. 

Symptoms of an underactive thyroid (Hypothyroidism) might include: 

• Feeling weary. 
• Gaining weight. 
• Having difficulty recalling stuff. 
• Regular and heavy menstrual flow. 

DIAGNOSIS 

If the physician discovers an underlying condition, they may recommend a series of diagnostic testing. These are basic blood tests used to examine the levels of thyroid hormones such as T3, T4, and TSH in the body. Inquire with your physician about an Anti-TPO test to determine your body’s hormone production capacity. 
 

Likely TREATMENT 

The purpose of therapy is to restore thyroid hormone balance. Here is a summary of the several alternatives your doctor may choose: 
 

Anti-Thyroid Medications 

There are drugs used by doctors to inhibit the production of hormones by the gland. 

Radioactive Iodine 

This medication inhibits the production of sufficient hormones by the thyroid cells. 
 

Beta-Blockers 
 

This is a sort of medication that does not affect your body’s hormone levels but helps you control your symptoms. 

Replacement Thyroid Medicine 

This drug is generally prescribed for the treatment of hypothyroidism. It is a drug that regulates your body’s inadequate synthesis of thyroid hormone. 
 

DO’s & DON’T’s in THYROID 

DO’s 
 

Correct Your Nutritional Deficits 

Certain vitamins and minerals are necessary for the proper functioning of the gland, but they are not always absorbed, resulting in a deficiency. Nutritional deficiencies can be caused by a poor diet and lifestyle, a leaky gut, chronic inflammation, low stomach acid, and a lack of digestive enzymes. 

Examine for the presence of Selenium, Zinc, Iron, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Vitamin B. 

Consume An Anti-Inflammatory Diet 
 

Include antioxidant-rich foods, such as almonds, green vegetables, and fruits. 
 

Prioritize Sleep 

Maintain a consistent sleep pattern and circadian rhythm. During the night, avoid blue light and technological devices. 
 

Improve Your Gastrointestinal & Liver Health 
 

T4 thyroid hormone is predominantly converted to T3 (the active form) in the liver and stomach. Having healthy gut flora improves the immune system and function. 

Prioritize Self-Care 

Engage in stress-reduction activities such as writing, meditation, and deep breathing to reduce stress. Boost your metabolism by remaining active throughout the day. 

DONT’s 

Avoid Food with High Glycemic Index 

 
Weight gain is caused by foods with a high glycemic index, such as refined wheat, bread, maize, muffins, and cakes. 

Some Goitrogens, But Not All 

Goitrogens are substances that impair gland function by inhibiting enzymes necessary for iodine use. In response to a deficiency, the gland generates more cells, resulting in hypertrophy. However, goitrogen-rich foods should not be wholly avoided because they also contain other essential nutrients. 
 

Avoid Potentially Harmful Products 

 
Avoid household, cosmetic, and toiletry items containing hormone-disrupting chemicals. Avoid the use of parabens, fluoride, chlorine, and phthalates. 

Here’s A Simple Thyroid-Friendly Diet by Dietitian Shivani Kandwal, Nutritionist & Diabetes Educator 

Early Morning – Wheatgrass / Seaweed Powder / Spirulina + 5 Almonds + 2 Walnuts  

Breakfast – 2 Eggs + 2 Bread Slice / Moong Daal Cheela + Green Chutney + CUrd / Besan Oats Cheela 2 with Green Chutney + Curd / Stuffed Paneer Roti 2 + Curd  

Mid-Morning – Buttermilk + Seasonal Fruit  

Lunch – Salad (steamed/sautéed) + 1 Bowl Daal / Chicken / Egg + 2 Chappati/1 Chappati + ½ Katori Rice  

Evening – Sattu Drink + Makhana Chat  

Dinner – Salad + 1 Bowl Green Vegetable + Daliya / Oats / 2 Chappati  

Post Dinner – 1 tsp Flaxseed