Hypothyroidism - Overview
At Dr Batra's™ clinics, we have had lot of patients coming to us to talk about their hair problems or stubborn weight gain. However, after systematically examining the patient's medical history and confirming through laboratory tests, many of them have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid gland does not produce enough important hormones. Having low thyroid hormone levels affects your whole body by upsetting the normal balance of chemical reactions in the body.
A patient suffering from hypothyroidism starts gaining weight over a period of time, and feels exhausted and depressed, not realising the reason behind these symptoms.
Thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland situated at the base of the front of the neck. The gland produces hormones necessary for many important functions of the body; for example, metabolism. The thyroid gland maintains the rate at which the body uses fats and carbohydrates, helps control body temperature, influences heart rate and helps regulate protein production.
Although older people - especially women aged 60 and above - are more susceptible to getting hypothyroidism, people of any age can get it. It may also be genetic in some cases. As the disease progresses, the patient starts to experience various symptoms; chiefly, obesity, joint pains, digestion problems, irregular menses in women and hair loss. Other symptoms include weakness, exhaustion, depression, dry skin, brittle nails, low tolerance towards cold, constipation, and even memory problems.
As the symptoms occur slowly over time, it is easy to neglect them, believing they are mere signs of ageing.
The good news is that accurate diagnostic tests for hypothyroidism are available. Post diagnosis, homeopathy can help control the symptoms of hypothyroidism in an effective manner.
- Approximately 1 in 10 adults suffer from hypothyroidism
- Adults in the age group of 35 and above are found to be at a higher risk of hypothyroidism
- Women are three times more prone to getting hypothyroidism
- lmost a third of hypothyroidism patients are unaware of their condition
Causes: The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the body creates antibodies that destroy parts of the thyroid gland. Surgical removal and certain medications can also cause hypothyroidism. To know more about causes, Read more.
Symptoms: The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism vary, depending on the severity of hormone deficiency. Common symptoms include fatigue, depression, modest weight gain, intolerance to cold, excessive sleepiness, dry and coarse hair. To know more about symptoms, Read more.
Diagnosis: Our homeopaths will perform physical examination and ask questions related to your hypothyroidism symptoms. They will conduct a TSH test that measures the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood. To know more about diagnosis, Read more.
Treatment approach at Dr Batra's ™:
Step 1: First Consultation – Our homeopaths will spend 30-45 minutes with you to understand the exact cause of hypothyroidism. We will take into account your medical history, family history of thyroid disorder, and lifestyle. Depending on all these factors, our homeopaths suggest customized homeopathic treatment that will help you cope with hypothyroidism.
Step 2: Medical Diagnosis – Our homeopaths will perform physical examination and ask questions related to your hypothyroidism symptoms. They will conduct a TSH test that measures the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood.
Step 3: Personalized Treatment - Natural homeopathic medicines are suggested based on the diagnosis made and extent of the condition.
Step 4: Advice on lifestyle – Our homeopaths will guide you on to how you can make certain changes in your diet, daily routine, and physical activity to restore normal TSH levels in your body. Read more.