The hypothalamus often referred to as the body's "thermostat" is responsible for making sure the thyroid blood levels are normal. When the hypothalamus notices the thyroid blood levels decreasing it releases TRH (thyroid releasing hormone). The TRH then signals the pituitary gland to release TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to begin producing thyroid hormone.
When the body's levels of thyroid hormone become normal and the body is functioning normally the pituitary gland will cease its release of TSH and the process stops until the hypothalamus notices the thyroid hormone levels decreasing again.
Hypothyroidism:
Hypothyroidism is caused by insufficient production or absorption of thyroid hormone that causes abnormally low blood thyroid hormone levels. This problem with the thyroid gland is usually brought about as a result of iodine insufficiency, a tumour, a damaged thyroid gland, or vitamin deficiencies. This type of hypothyroidism is called "primary hypothyroidism". Hypothyroidism can also be a result of the pituitary gland and/or hypothalamus failing to function properly. This type of hypothyroidism is called "secondary hypothyroidism".
Low thyroid hormone levels may not only make you feel old, but they can also propel you into the conditions and diseases associated with ageing. Low levels of T4 can be responsible for weight gain since T4 plays a role in controlling the body's metabolism. The changes that are brought about as a result of the aging process such as changes in the fat to muscle ratio and the shrinkage of organs can also be caused by a lack of thyroid hormone. A decrease in the amount of lean body mass can in turn interfere with the activity of an enzyme that converts thyroxine (T4) into triiodothyronine (T3). T3 is about 5 times more potent than T4.
Adequate levels of thyroid hormone are needed to regulate blood sugar, so a deficiency of thyroid hormone can lead to mature-onset diabetes. Low levels of thyroid hormone can also greatly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease due to an increase in the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides which may cause high blood pressure. Also, iodine is essential to the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, several studies that have been done have shown a correlation between low iodine levels and an increased risk of cancer.
Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism:
Weakness, fatigue, and lack of energy
Dry, flaky, pale skin
Dry, coarse, dull hair, loss of hair
Lack of appetite
Weight gain
Thinning of eyebrows
Sensitivity to cold
Brittle nails
Cold hands and feet
Constipation
Low body temperature.
The general opinion of many in the medical community has been that the drop that occurs in hormone levels is a normal part of the ageing process and replacement is not necessary. Although some of their ageing patients have clear symptoms of insufficient thyroid hormone levels, some physicians refuse to place these ailing patients on thyroid medication because they consider their ailing condition a normal part of the ageing process.
These physician's poor patients are missing out on thyroid replacement therapy that should alleviate or improve most, if not all their symptoms. Thankfully this negative opinion is slowly changing.
In the older population hypothyroidism is one of the most overlooked conditions.
Self-Detection of Hypothyroidism:
A test called the Barnes Basal Temperature test can show you if your thyroid hormone level is below. Place a thermometer next to your bed before going to sleep. Be sure to shake the thermometer down if it is a mercury thermometer. As soon as you awake, place the thermometer under your arm lie quietly, and leave the thermometer under your arm for about 10 minutes. Be sure to check your temperature before you move around because an increase in your activity can cause an increase in your temperature. You want to take your temperature as soon after coming out of sleep as possible.
Thyroid dysfunction affects both males and females. This gland produces hormones that control the body’s metabolism, your internal thermostat of sorts.
Thyroid dysfunction is generally either an over or underproduction of the hormone. Underactive thyroid hormone production is called hypothyroidism whereas too much, or overactive thyroid hormone production is called hyperthyroidism.
Some doctors prefer to diagnose hypothyroidism with a blood test. They will test to check TSH levels (the thyroid-stimulating hormone produced by the pituitary gland) and T4 levels (the main thyroid hormone). Other doctors prefer to take a more holistic approach and can diagnose based on symptoms. Morning body temperature readings (below 97.1 consistently) as well as the discovery of regular waking up approximately four hours after going to bed, can aid in the diagnosis.
There are chemical and synthetic treatments that can be used to restore healthy thyroid functions, such as Synthroid and levothyroxine.
Some doctors and sufferers prefer to use a form of natural thyroid hormone extracted from swine and cows. Yup, pig thyroid! It’s the closest to the human thyroid hormone and contains both T4 and T3 thyroid hormones.
Naturopaths have long recognized that there are very effective herbs that can help promote healthy thyroid functioning and restore thyroid health.
Armour, a natural thyroid is available by prescription. T-100 is another brand of natural thyroid that can be obtained through holistic professionals. Regular use of natural thyroid can help to restore deficient iodine levels, while also stimulating the thyroid to produce crucial thyroid hormones, thereby treating hypothyroidism.
Bladderwrack or kelp, Licorice, Saw Palmetto, and Ginger (root)have also been known to stimulate the thyroid to release thyroid hormones and are therefore beneficial in the treatment of hypothyroidism.
If you’re not comfortable taking synthetic medications, give natural thyroid a chance. It’s the closest match to the human thyroid and can leave you feeling worlds better. Even natural supplements need to be under the care of your physician.
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to medically treat or cure any disease. Consult a health care practitioner before beginning any health care program.
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