The thyroid gland acts as the body’s thermostat, controlling its basic tick-over speed. Undiagnosed thyroid problems can be the underlying cause in many recurring or non-responsive health problems. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to function adequately, resulting in reduced levels of thyroid hormone in the body.
During childhood, hypothyroidism can cause retardation of normal growth. There are many causes of hypothyroidism. Iodine deficiency is the major possible cause in our country. Some medical treatments, such as surgery or radiation to the thyroid gland, or certain drugs like lithium and phenylbutazone, may also induce the condition.
Failure of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus to stimulate the thyroid gland properly can cause a condition known as secondary hypothyroidism. Some people with goiter (an enlargement of the thyroid gland) also have hypothyroidism. Goiter can be caused by iodine deficiency, foods that contain goiter-causing substances, or other disorders that interfere with thyroid hormone production.
Symptoms
Sluggishness of bodily functions is the criterion for diagnosis. Symptoms include depressed muscular activity, slow pulse, low blood pressure, hoarseness of voice, decreased immune functioning with recurrent infections, constipation, irritability, sensitivity to cold, depression, drooping and swollen eyes, swollen face, increase in allergic reaction, fatigue, weight gain, headaches, hair loss, lusterless hair, dry skin due to lack of perspiration, heavy and painful periods, and premenstrual tension.
Self-Help Guidelines
Consume foods that are naturally high in iodine such as fish, shell fish, white onions, vegetables and root vegetables such as potatoes, asparagus, etc. (Iodine content of vegetables, fruits and cereals depends upon the iodine content of the soil). Avoid foods that naturally slow down the functioning of the thyroid such as cabbage, mustard-greens, cauliflower, maize, sweet potatoes, and spinach. Avoid sulfa drugs and antihistamines, which aggravate this problem. Also increase daily consumption of foods high in Vitamin B complex such as whole grains, raw nuts, and seeds; and Vitamin A rich foods like dark green and yellow vegetables.
Ayurvedic Remedies
Mild cases respond to herbs such as kaanchanaara or punarnava. The bark of kaanchanaara or the whole plant Punarnava can be taken in the form of a decoction, in a dose of 30 ml twice daily on an empty stomach. Kaanchanaara guggulu and punarnawaadi guggulu that contain these herbs are popularly used for the treatment of this disease. Take two pills, twice daily. Associated constipation can be alleviated with intake of triphala choorna at bed-time. Take one teaspoonful of it with warm water.
Weight gain is treated with shilaajit and calcium deficiency is corrected with muktapishti or pravaala-panchaamrit. The treatment of thyroid disease is not a speedy one and there is often a recurrence of symptoms, but these should gradually become less pronounced with proper diet control and appropriate remedies. Sensible exercise, rest and strict adherence to diet and drugs are essential for complete recovery.