Overview
The thyroid gland sits on the area below the voice box. It is one of the most important secreting cell masses in the human body. The hormones that this gland secretes regulate the functioning rate of most vital bodily processes. Thyroid disturbances can have grave health consequences. As such, it is important to consult a doctor if you detect any anomaly. Naturopathic medicine plays an important role in dealing with thyroid gland functional imbalances.
Functional imbalances revolving around the thyroid gland may be of an overactive or underactive nature. The causes are wide, varying, and may be difficult to fully understand. A hypothyroid thyroid gland becomes underactive; In this scenario, it does not produce enough thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). which help to sustain healthy bodily functions. Inadequate production of these hormones may lead to the following symptoms:
- weight gain
- voice changes
- dry skin
- brittle nails
- poor concentration and lethargy
- constipation
- hair thinning
- muscular aches and pains.
However, these types of symptoms may be due to other conditions. As such, thyroid problems may not feature in many probable diagnoses. However, if you have two or more of the above symptoms, it’s advisable to visit a naturopathic doctor for thyroid testing.
Cases of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) are rare. Excessive production of thyroid hormone may lead to palpitations, anxiety attacks, sweating, and starry eyes. There may be detectable swelling of the thyroid gland at the front of the throat. Diagnosis of thyroid trouble and treatment involves the use of symptoms in history.
Most of the hypothyroid symptoms above indicate thyroid insufficiency. If you detect several of them, an axillary temperature test or a Barne’s test is usually the next step. If your temperature is consistently subnormal, then a blood or urine test follows. Before calling it a night, get an oral temperature and shake it thoroughly. Place on a cabinet close to your bed. Upon waking up in the morning, place it under your armpit for approximately 10 minutes. While at it, ensure that you remain quiet and still for accurate readings. Do this for a minimum of five days.
Naturopaths Treat Hypothyroid & Sub-Clinical Hypothyroid
Naturopathic medicine is a medical system that bases its operational principles on nature and its healing powers. Naturopathic doctors embark on a deep understanding of the spirit, mind, and body of a patient. This way, they get to find the cause of a particular ailment. Naturopathy entails the use of numerous techniques and therapies. Some of these therapies include homeopathy, herbal medicine, behavioral change, nutrition, and acupuncture. Naturopathy focuses on two main areas: buoying up the natural healing abilities of the body, and encouraging lifestyle changes. Naturopathic practitioners treat both simple and chronic conditions. However, their main emphasis is on the prevention of diseases and creating awareness among the public.
It is important to note that naturopathic medicine has an emphasis on overall bodily functions. As such, lower thyroxine levels that are within the acceptable range may be insufficient for some individuals. Naturopath practitioners will diagnose a thyroid problem based on your overall health. They will investigate all other possible causes of your symptoms, as well as anything else that might have a bearing on the thyroid gland malfunction. This may include blood-sugar level imbalance and/or digestive disturbance and detoxification function imbalance. Others are trace elements, minerals and vitamin deficiencies, prolonged stress, as well as joint and muscle problems… especially on the neck.
Imbalance of the liver’s detoxification functions results in an increase of toxic elements in the body that usually irritates thyroid functions. Problems with the neck’s muscle lead to issues with nerve and circulation to the thyroid gland. Naturopathic treatment for hypothyroid and sub-clinical hypothyroid strives to reduce demands on the thyroid gland due to an unhealthy diet and stress. According to the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors, treatment may include dietary adjustments, homoeopathic or herbal support, vitamin and mineral supplements, home hydrotherapy, soft tissue neuromuscular and gentle osteopathic techniques.
