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The thyroid is a gland found in the throat that secretes hormones. Issues can come up when the thyroid gland either secretes too little or too much of the thyroid hormone. These are known as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, and they are separate problems that are dealt with very differently. Women4Women supports women’s health in Queens and is here to help manage your thyroid levels.
Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, can be detected when low levels of a thyroid hormone called thyroxine, or T4, and high levels of TSH are found using blood tests. TSH is a hormone that stimulates the hormone gland to produce more thyroxine. After these irregular levels are discovered, treatment is the next step. While there are natural techniques used to counteract hypothyroidism, there is a standard medical treatment. Connecting with our experts in women’s health in Queens at Women4Women can help you get the treatment that is best for you.
Levothyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone, is often prescribed to treat hypothyroidism. This medication is taken orally once a day that recovers hormone levels to a regulated level. Doing so will hopefully reduce the symptoms of hypothyroidism, as well. Some of these include high cholesterol levels and weight gain. It is important to note that feeling better is not an indication to stop taking the medication. Levothyroxine will likely be taken for life, as stopping it will cause your symptoms to return.
For those who would like to avoid potential side effects of thyroid replacement medication, like levothyroxine, attempting natural treatments may be a more suitable option. These are intended to eliminate potential causes of hypothyroidism, like dietary issues and a lack of certain nutrients. Some examples include:
Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, causes an overproduction of thyroid hormone in one’s body. This can be detected physically or through a blood test. A physical exam may show an enlarged or tender thyroid gland or a rapid pulse. A blood test will show high levels of thyroxine and no or low levels of TSH. Once this is found, a few tests can indicate why you have an overactive thyroid. They include:
Like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism can be treated medically, although some natural treatments can help manage symptoms alongside medical treatment. Getting help from one of Women4Women’s specialists in women’s health in Queens could help you along the process of proper diagnosis and treatment.
Depending on one’s age, condition, and cause of hyperthyroidism, a few medical treatments can be done. They are:
Again, these natural treatments cannot replace prescribed medical treatment; they may help one manage their hyperthyroidism symptoms. Some of these techniques include:
It is important to always speak with a medical professional in managing your thyroid levels. Not only will seeing an expert in women’s health in Queens at Women4Women ensure that you get a proper diagnosis, but we are here to discuss solutions for reducing symptoms and treating your thyroid issues in a way that works best for you. Book an appointment.