Definition
Your thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located just below your Adam’s apple. The thyroid produces the hormone thyroxin that affects your body’s metabolism and energy level. The thyroid is essential in protein synthesis, growth, temperature regulation, and oxygen consumption in cells. If the thyroid is depleted or deficient, the rest of the body functions poorly.
There are three possible problems with the thyroid as follows:
Hypothyroidism (under active thyroid)
Hyperthyroidism (over active thyroid)
Thyroid nodules (lumps)*
*Thyroid nodules are fairly common and usually harmless. However, about 4% of nodules are cancerous, so further testing needs to be done. A biopsy is needed by a thyroid specialist. For thyroid nodules, I refer out to an allopathic doctor.
Causes of Thyroid Problems
Hypothyroidism
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Low iodine or salt intake
- Vitamin A, E, and zinc deficiency
- Over exposure of lithium
- Overuse of cold and sinus medications
- Overuse of diet pills
- X-ray radiation
- Exposure to toxic drugs and chemicals
- Living near nuclear plants
Hyperthyroidism
- Graves’ disease
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Nodular toxic adenomas
- Cancer of thyroid
- Pituitary malfunction
Symptoms
Hypothyroidism
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Slowed thinking
- High cholesterol
- Weight gain
- Feeling cold
- Sweating too much
- Dry skin and hair
- Goiter
- Constipation
- Heavy menstrual periods
- Low libido
- Brittle nails
Hyperthyroidism
- Fatigue, feeling exhausted
- Jitteriness, shaking, increased nervousness, irritability
- Rapid heart beat or palpitations
- Weight loss
- Feeling hot
- Goiter
- More frequent bowel movements
- Shorter or lighter menstrual periods
Treatment options
- Neurotransmitter testing
- Lab testing
- Nutritional counseling
- Microcurrent
- Homeopathic drainage (Unda)
| Contact Rosetta Koach, LMT, ND at 503-628-6357 for treatment of thyroid problems |