How Long Does it Take to Balance Your Thyroid

The thyroid gland is an essential part of the human endocrine system that is responsible for releasing hormones and regulating many aspects of your body, such as your metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, and even breathing. The two main hormones released by the gland are called T3 and T4, and if these hormones are not present at the proper levels, your entire body can be thrown out of sync. Many conditions can cause the thyroid gland to act in an atypical manner. If you are battling a thyroid disorder and are seeking a gyno Long Island, look no further than Women4Women. Our specialists’ team is the best-equipped to help you with your thyroid problems and restore you to full health. 

Common Thyroid Conditions

The two most common ailments that can cause thyroid problems are called hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid is not producing enough T3 and T4, whereas hyperthyroidism is characterized by the gland producing too much of these hormones. Below is a list displaying some of the symptoms associated with these two conditions.

Hypothyroidism Symptoms

• -Trouble sleeping
• -Tiredness/Fatigue
• -Hard time concentrating
• -Dry skin and hair
• -Depression
• -Frequent, heavy periods
• -Joint and muscle pain
• -Sensitivity to cold
• Hyperthyroidism Symptoms
• -Anxiety
• -Moodiness
• -Sweating
• -Shaking
• -Hair Loss
• -Light menstrual periods

Causes of Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

Both of these conditions are quite common and can have a wide range of causes. Doctors estimate that nearly five percent of the population has some kind of hypothyroidism. The following is a list of conditions that can cause thyroid disorders. 

Causes of Hypothyroidism

• -Autoimmune disorder
• -Over-response to hyperthyroidism treatment
• -Thyroid surgery
• -Radiation therapy
• -Medications
• -Hereditary disease
• -Pregnancy
• -Iodine deficiency
• Causes of Hyperthyroidism
• -Autoimmune disorders like Grave’s Disease
• -Growths on the Thyroid
• -Thyroid inflammation
• -Too much iodine
• -Over-response to hypothyroidism symptoms

How can I treat these conditions?

For those suffering from hypothyroidism, there are numerous ways to restore thyroid function to normal. Typically, you will need to take some sort of oral medication that returns the hormone levels to normal. However, there are also plenty of exercises and at-home treatment methods that can help you feel better—relatively simple activities like walking, yoga, tai chi, and some light strength training and aerobics. Although you may not feel like exercising (especially if you suffer from hypothyroidism), it can boost your mood, help you lose weight, and increase your energy levels. 

Similar to hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism can be treated with medication that helps to regulate the Thyroid. Radioiodine treatment involves taking a radioactive pill that destroys some of the excess T3 and T4 in a manner that does not harm or disrupt the rest of your body. In rare cases, surgery can be required to remove parts of the Thyroid, therefore lowering production levels. It is recommended that pregnant women do not undergo treatment, as some studies have suggested that treatment may cause increased chances of miscarriage. 

Diet can also play a big role in returning thyroid levels to normal, in addition to medication. For example, soy products and vegetables in the broccoli family-like brussels sprouts and kale have a reputation for causing thyroid dysfunction. Managing your stress levels is also incredibly important, as a study of military cadets found that those who are subject to high-stress levels have very low T3 levels, among other health issues. 

How Long Does it Take for the Thyroid to return to normal?

Once treatment with medication has begun, it typically takes three or four weeks for levels to return to normal. The dose will likely need to be adjusted as time goes on, requiring you to undergo a test every month or two to check where your levels are and ensure the appropriate adjustment is made. To test your standards, you will need a Thyroid-Stimulating-Hormone (TSH) test. The test requires no preparation and is typically conducted via a simple blood draw. 

Seeking a Gyno Long Island?

If you are suffering from a thyroid condition and seek the consultation of a gyno Long Island, Women4Women is the practice for you! Our six female board-certified OB/GYN specialists have decades of experience treating women just like you and will give their all to ensure that you return to your full health. To make an appointment, contact us today!