Thursday, September 20, 2012

Hypothyroidism - a possible source of many unexplained symptoms

Do you suffer from constant headaches?  Recurrent infections?  Cold extremities?  Dry skin (especially on your hands and feet)?  Constipation?  Morning fatigue?  Swelling (particularly around the eyes)?

If you experience one or more of these symptoms then you may have a thyroid disorder, likely hypothyroidism.  Underactive thyroid function is on the rise and here are some possible reasons for it:
  • presence of BPA in plastics
  • PCB's (Polychlorinated Biphenyls)
  • nitrogen fertilizers
  • Triclosan - an antibacgerial/antifungal agent in soups, toothpastes, deodorant and cleansers
  • lead and mercury toxicity
  • nutritional deficiencies - iodine, B12, zinc, iron, selenium
  • medications - birth control pills, beta blockers
  • smoking
  • fluoride 
  • stress
What should you do if you are concerned about your thyroid gland?  Go to your naturopathic doctor or family doctor and have your thyroid hormones tested.  Specifically have your TSH, free T3 and free T4 tested.   It is important to review your results with a qualified practitioner because even if your levels are slightly out of optimal range, then symptoms can appear.  Conventionally, patients are often prescribed pharmaceuticals only when their thyroid levels are well out of the normal range and serious symptoms have already developed.  Correcting even slight hormone imbalances can make a huge difference early on and this is where natural therapies can be very beneficial. 

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