What is the function of the thyroid gland?
The thyroid gland is placed directly below the Adam’s apple at the base of the neck. This gland secretes two hormones into the blood: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Both are important for the correct functioning of our cells.
The hormones regulate the metabolism of our cells, hence regulating the rate at which our cells function. Hyperthyroidism refers to a condition in which the thyroid gland secretes an excessive number of hormones. This stimulates our cells to operate quicker than usual and can have a domino effect on our organs, resulting in a faster heart rate and increased intestinal activity (diarrhea).
If your gland becomes underactive and doesn’t secrete enough hormones, this is known as hypothyroidism. This slows down the cells and organs, producing the opposite effect of hyperthyroidism.
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
If your thyroid becomes underactive, you could experience the following symptoms:
● Feeling tired
● Gaining weight
● Feeling depressed
● Being more sensitive to the cold
● Having dry skin and hair
● Experiencing muscle aches
As these symptoms are frequently identical to those of other illnesses, they can go unnoticed. If you suspect that your thyroid is not functioning properly, see your doctor immediately. They will be able to diagnose you after doing a thyroid function test.
In numerous instances of hypothyroidism, the immune system attacks and damages the thyroid gland. Treatments for an overactive thyroid or thyroid cancer can also cause damage to the gland.
If you are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, you will most likely be prescribed daily levothyroxine hormone replacement tablets. You will receive routine blood tests to monitor your levels, and your dosage could need to be adjusted to achieve the desired effect. Once your hormone levels have returned to normal, you will typically undergo blood testing once a year to check for any changes.
If you are not experiencing hypothyroidism symptoms or if they are moderate, you will not require therapy.
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) (overactive thyroid)
If your thyroid becomes overactive, it will release an excessive number of hormones into your blood, causing the following symptoms:
● Feeling nervous, anxious, or irritable
● Difficulty sleeping
● Feeling tired and weak
● Being more sensitive to heat
● Experiencing an irregular or fast heartbeat
● Losing weight
If you are having these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. If diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, you could be referred for more tests to determine the underlying reason. There are various causes for an overactive thyroid, including Graves’ disease, thyroid tumors or nodules, and some drugs.
Your doctor will propose a treatment plan following a diagnosis. Medication that prevents your thyroid from creating too many hormones, radioiodine treatment (which uses radiation to limit your thyroid’s ability to make hormones), and surgery to remove all or part of your thyroid is the most common therapies for an overactive thyroid.
Typically, you can consult with a Hormone health coach who will assist you in determining the optimal treatment for your situation.
How a Nutritionist Can Assist
If you have a thyroid condition, it is essential to be aware of how your diet impacts your health. A nutritionist with expertise in this field will collaborate with you to create a diet that promotes thyroid health.
If you are trying to maintain a healthy weight (which is impacted by thyroid issues), Livlively’s thyroid nutritionist in Dubai can also assist you. If your doctor recommends that you take supplements or make significant dietary changes, you should consult with him or her beforehand.