Thyroid issues have become more and more common and the rates of thyroid disease have skyrocketed over the past decade. Partly because we are finally getting better at recognizing thyroid symptoms and partly because our lifestyles are putting us at greater risk.
Over 28 million Americans are estimated to have a thyroid problem (between 4-15% of the US population) and 80% of them are women and most women experience years of symptoms before getting a definitive diagnosis.
thyroid problems don’t crop up overnight, like most chronic disease, they are the result of years of stress, poor diet and inflammation.
The good news is that making changes to help manage stress, eat a more balanced diet and adding specific nutrients and herbs can help keep your endocrine system and your thyroid healthy.
First its important to recognize the symptoms of thyroid issues:
Signs & Symptoms of Hypothyoidism (from Dr Aviva Romm)
Fatigue
Constipation
Forgetfulness, slowed cognitive function
Irregular/Heavy periods
Painful joints/carpal tunnel syndrome
Fertility/miscarriage/difficulty with breast milk production
Moodiness/Irritability
Depression, Anxiety
Hair thinning/Hair loss
Dry skin
Weight gain
Cold intolerance
Elevated cholesterol n
Mitochondrial dysfunction
Hoarseness/deepened voice
Dysphagia
Bradycardia (heart rate that’s too slow)
Puffy eyes
Goiter
Signs of Hyperthyroidism (graves disease is the most common form in the US)
Nervousness/Tremor
Mental Disturbances/ Irritability
Difficulty Sleeping
Bulging Eyes/Unblinking Stare/ Vision Changes
Enlarged Thyroid (Goiter)
Menstrual Irregularities/ Light Period
Frequent Bowel Movements
Warm, Moist Palms
First-Trimester Miscarriage/ Excessive Vomiting in Pregnancy
Hoarseness/ Deepening of Voice
Persistent Dry or Sore Throat Difficulty Swallowing
Palpitations/ Tachycardia
Impaired Fertility
Weight Loss or Gain
Heat Intolerance Increased Sweating
Sudden Paralysis
Family History of Thyroid Disease or Diabetes
Why is it important to recognize thyroid symptoms?
thyroid function plays essential roles in the central nervous system which can lead to decreased cognitive function, slowing of motor function, memory loss, bone loss as well as problems with the metabolic system.
A healthy thyroid is also crucial for reproductive health as thyroid imbalances are often associated with menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriage, postpartum depression and issues with milk production.
Do you struggle with several of the above symptoms? Have you already been diagnosed with a thyroid disorder? If so – what can you do?
Getting a blood test is important – talk to your healthcare provider about getting a test.
If results confirm Hypo or Hyper thyroid disfunction its important to get started right away. Graves disease needs to be managed by a professional, so seek out an experienced and recommended Dr to get care.
Hypothyroidism can be handled a variety of ways including adding thyroid medication – but making sure you are addressing the underlying nutritional deficiencies, stressors and root causes is key to regaining energy and health.
I have more information on my top 3 favorite nutrients and herbs for a sluggish thyroid here.
you can also schedule a free call with me here for more information on natural ways to manage thyroid disease.