Hyperthyroidism – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland becomes overactive and secretes excessive amounts of the hormone thyroxine. The thyroid is a small, somewhat butterfly-shaped structure located at the base of the neck. The hormone it produces, thyroxine, is converted in the liver into another hormone, tri-iodothuronine, which regulates metabolism. If the thyroid produces too much thyroxine, this ultimately throws the baby's metabolic processes into overdrive and speeds up many of the functions of the body.

The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck, just below the larynx (voice box). It helps to maintain a healthy metabolism (the process by which foods are transformed into basic elements which can be utilized by the body for energy or growth) by producing and releasing iodine-containing hormones called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

Symptoms:

Cretinism : The child remains as dwarf and is mentally retarded. The development of bones is retarded and muscles become flabby. There is enlarged and protruded tongue, dry thick skin, round face, and hoarseness of voice. The skin becomes yellow coloured with scales and constipation.

Myxodema : The skin is dry and cool with dry hairs, constipation. Heart may enlarge; the pulse is slow and irregular with anemia. Serum T4 and T3 values are low

The goals of treatment for hyperthyroidism include the elimination of excess thyroid hormone production, the relief of symptoms, and the prevention of becoming hypothyroid after treatment.

Hyperthyroidism can be treated with radioiodine (iodine 131), surgery (subtotal thyroidectomy), or antithyroid drugs.

Vitamin B Complex 50 is used in the treatment of Hyperthyroidism as it contains a variety of components required for a normally functioning thyroid. Thiamin is involved in energy production. Riboflavin and Flaxseed are necessary for the normal glandular functions. Vitamin B6 has the ability to activate many relevant enzymes. Lecithin is used in the treatment of Hyperthyroidism as it aids fat digestion and also has shown a protecting effect on cells. Ester C is an anti-stress vitamin.

Radioactive Iodine is the agent of choice to treat Graves' disease, toxic adenoma, and multinodular goiters. It is a liquid that concentrates in the thyroid gland and causes ablation (destruction of the cells.) This therapy commonly causes hypothyroidism which results in the need for thyroid hormone supplementation.

Bupleurum and doing quai, also known as Hsiao Yao Wan, is a Chinese patent medicine that helps to regulate the endocrine system. Take 500 milligrams three times daily for two months. Stop for one month, and then repeat.

Yoga postures and breathing techniques (Pranayama) as one of the best therapy for treating hypothyroidism. Yoga postures help thyroid to release hormones. This physical exercise is to be accompanied with perfect diet. Iodine, vitamins, minerals and other essential elements are to be taken regularly to get rid of the hypothyroidism.

Dandelion root is noted for its ability to regulate liver function, which in turn benefits the thyroid gland. Take 500 milligrams or one cup of dandelion-root tea twice a day for six weeks. Stop for one month, and then repeat.

Your health professional will treat your hyperthyroidism with the thyroid medicine levothyroxine sodium (for example, Synthroid, Levoxyl, or Levothroid). Take your medicine as directed. Your health professional will want to see you 6 to 8 weeks later to make sure the dose is right for you.