THYROID DISORDERS

• Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
• Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
• Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
• Thyroid Nodules and Goiter

Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)

• Symptoms: Fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, constipation, hair loss, menstrual irregularities, sensitivity to cold, and depression.
• Causes: Often caused by Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid. Other causes include iodine deficiency, certain medications, or radiation treatment.
• Diagnosis: Blood tests showing low levels of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)

• Symptoms: Weight loss, increased appetite, sweating, irritability, nervousness, palpitations, heat /cold intolerance, menstrual changes, and insomnia.
• Causes: Often caused by Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder. Other causes include thyroid nodules, excess iodine intake, or thyroiditis.
• Diagnosis: Blood tests showing high levels of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and low TSH levels.

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

• Symptoms: Similar to hypothyroidism, including fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, and hair loss.
• Causes: An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid, leading to inflammation and gradual thyroid gland damage.
• Diagnosis: Detection of specific antibodies (anti-thyroid peroxidase and anti-thyroglobulin) in blood tests, along with signs of hypothyroidism.

Thyroid Nodules and Goiter

• Symptoms: Nodules may not cause symptoms, but large ones can lead to visible neck swelling, difficulty swallowing, or breathing issues. Goiter (enlarged thyroid) can cause neck swelling and may be associated with either hypo- or hyperthyroidism.
• Causes: Can be caused by iodine deficiency, thyroiditis, or benign or cancerous thyroid growths.
• Diagnosis: Physical examination, ultrasound, and sometimes fine-needle aspiration biopsy.

• Regular Screening: Especially crucial for women over 35, those who are pregnant, or those with a family history of thyroid conditions. Early detection can prevent complications and support better treatment outcomes.
• Dietary Support: Nutrients like iodine, selenium, and zinc are essential for thyroid health. Incorporating foods rich in these nutrients and moderating intake of soy and gluten may help support thyroid function. Ayurveda emphasizes a balanced, nourishing diet that aligns with one's constitution (dosha), which can help in regulating the thyroid and overall metabolism.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Managing stress, regular exercise, and adequate sleep are vital. Stress is known to affect thyroid function, so practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can support relaxation and endocrine health.
• Ayurvedic Biopurification Process (Panchakarma): In Ayurveda, thyroid imbalances are often attributed to an accumulation of toxins (ama) and imbalances in the body’s doshas, primarily Kapha and Vata. Panchakarma, Ayurveda’s Biopurification process, is believed to help eliminate toxins and restore balance to the body.

Other Ayurveda therapies for thyroid health include

• Vamana: Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) and Virechana (purgation): These help to cleanse the body, remove ama, and balance Kapha dosha, which is often linked with hypothyroidism.
• Nasya: Nasya (nasal administration of medicated oils): This treatment is particularly effective for improving hormonal balance and regulating thyroid function.
• Basti: Basti (medicated enema therapy): Beneficial for balancing Vata dosha, which is important in managing symptoms like anxiety and dryness seen in thyroid disorders.