Managing Hyperthyroidism: Reduced Risk of Associated Health Disorders?

Did you know that almost 42 million Indians are affected by thyroid disorders?

Thyroid disorders are related to the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland composed of two lobes located around the neck. This gland produces several hormones, prominently the Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) hormones.

There are mainly two types of thyroid disorders: Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism.

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is unable to make sufficient thyroid hormones, resulting in a slower metabolism. This disrupts nearly all body processes and makes them sluggish. 

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland starts producing excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. Also known as an overactive thyroid, this condition speeds up the body’s metabolism. Symptoms may include an increased heartbeat, increased appetite, weight loss, and anxiety. Hyperthyroidism can affect the entire body and lead to certain other health disorders.

A Few Common Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism can be quite hard to diagnose without proper medical screening, as it exhibits symptoms similar to other medical conditions. Here are some common symptoms of this condition:

• Weight loss
• Increased appetite
• Increased heartbeat
• High anxiety levels
• Insomnia and sleeping problems
• Excessive sweating
• Irregular bowel patterns
• Brittle hair and nails

All these symptoms may indicate Hyperthyroidism but are also closely related to several other health problems, making this condition hard to diagnose. It is important to get regular checkups and stay updated on your thyroid health. If you experience these symptoms frequently, you should consult a medical professional.

How to Manage Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a serious disorder that affects the whole body and may cause related health problems. Managing this condition includes adopting several lifestyle changes and some medical treatments to lower the production and release of thyroid hormones. Here are some ways to manage Hyperthyroidism:

Healthy Diet

A healthy, balanced diet may help keep your thyroid levels in control. Some nutrients play a role in the production and release of thyroid hormones. To manage your thyroid, you can adopt several foods and some you should avoid. 

Foods to Adopt

• Low-iodine food: e.g., Non-iodized salt, honey, oats, potatoes
• Cruciferous vegetables: e.g., Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower
• Healthy fats: e.g., Flaxseed oil, avocado, unsalted nuts.
• Iron & selenium-rich foods: e.g., Dried beans, lentils, mushrooms, chia seeds

Foods to Avoid

• Iodine-rich foods: e.g., Iodized salt, shellfish, egg yolks
• Soy products: e.g., Soy milk, tofu, soybeans
• Gluten
• Caffeine

Also Read- Foods to Avoid if Diagnosed with Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

Quit Smoking

Smoking has adverse effects on bodily functions and processes. It disrupts the hormonal balances in the body, including thyroid hormones. Moreover, smoking causes respiratory and heart-related problems that may be dangerous for your overall health. 

Anti-thyroid Medications

Some anti-thyroid medications, like Methimazole and Propylthiouracil, control the production and release of thyroid hormones in the body. They are an effective and safe treatment for Hyperthyroidism.

Radioiodine Therapy

Radioiodine Therapy is another medical procedure for the treatment of Hyperthyroidism. It uses radioactive iodine to target thyroid cells and destroy them. It is a safe and widely used treatment option for hyperthyroidism.

Surgery

Extreme cases of hyperthyroidism may need to go through surgery for the removal of the thyroid gland. Such surgery is performed when the patient doesn’t respond to other treatments or cannot take medications.

Health Disorders Associated with Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that affects the whole body and may potentially give rise to other health disorders. Here are some of the disorders commonly associated with Hyperthyroidism:

Graves’ Ophthalmopathy

Graves’ ophthalmopathy, also known as Thyroid Eye Disease(TED), is a condition caused by Hyperthyroidism that affects the area around the eyes. It causes bags under the eyes, blurred vision, redness, and swelling of the eyelids, among other symptoms.

Graves’ Dermopathy

This is a rare skin disease associated with hyperthyroidism. It causes thickened and swollen reddish skin, dry and flaky skin, and generally occurs near the shin and tops of feet. Treatment may include topical or oral medications and surgery in rare cases.

Osteoporosis

Hyperthyroidism has also been linked to bone problems, particularly osteoporosis. This condition characterizes a decrease in bone mineral density and mass and may also result in structural changes in the bones.

Fertility Issues

The thyroid gland regulates male and female fertility. Hyperthyroidism may disrupt the production and release of reproductive hormones, causing fertility problems. It may also result in decreased ovarian function in females.

Depression and other Mental Disorders

Research shows that Hyperthyroidism may be linked to depression and other mental disorders like mania and Schizophrenia. A study in the US has concluded that people with Hyperthyroidism have a 67 times increased risk of developing depression and chronic anxiety problems.

The Key Takeaway

Hyperthyroidism affects the whole body and is linked to multiple other health disorders. Managing this condition can help significantly reduce the risk of other health disorders related to bone problems, vision issues, skin problems, reproductive disorders, and mental health problems. Keeping track of our thyroid levels and getting regular health checkups is important to help maintain a healthy thyroid level. 

Have you had your thyroid levels checked lately? If not, you should book a Thyroid profile test at Redcliffe Labs—“Healthy India ki trusted lab”—today! We offer an on-time guarantee and 100% report correctness!