Hyperthyroidism
The thyroid, a hormone secreting gland located in the front of the neck, plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, most importantly that of metabolism. When the thyroid produces too much hormone it results in hyperthyroidism which accelerates a number of functions to above normal levels, including elevated heart rate, rapid weight loss, and copious sweating. It is caused primarily by Grave’s disease, a disorder in which the immune system releases abnormal antibodies mimicking as thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), tricking the thyroid into creating excessive amounts of hormones leading to the above mentioned abnormalities. Along with rapid weight loss, elevated heartbeat, and copious sweating the most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are: moodiness, hand tremors, trouble breathing even when resting, and frequent bowel movements; in women irregular menstruation is common, as is enlarged breasts for men. Rare but dangerous is the life threatening condition known as a thyroid storm, in which the thyroid releases an incredibly large amount of hormones in a short window of time, and resulting in heart failure or a coma.
If You Have Been Diagnosed with Hyperthyroidism
The three primary treatment methods for hyperthyroidism are anti-thyroid medicine, radioactive iodine, and surgery, the latter being used only in extreme circumstances (i.e. an enlarged thyroid which makes swallowing or breathing difficult). Anti-thyroid medicines are used to address cases of mild hyperthyroidism and sufferers of Graves’ disease who are under 50, while radioactive iodine is best for sufferers of Graves’ disease who are over 50, as well as people with thyroid nodules which are releasing excessive levels of hormones. Other medicines your doctor may recommend are beta blockers to help control the symptoms of elevated heart rate, hand tremors, and sweating, and corticoid steroid medicines to help alleviate pain or swelling in the thyroid.
A Whole Health Perspective
Looking at Hyperthyroidism through a Whole Health model, we explore the individual’s unique presentation from the 5 Aspects of Whole Health™ perspective.
1. Physically – The thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system, or chemical/hormone signaling system. Its main function is to regulate the body’s metabolism (converting nutrients and calories into energy). This is accomplished by the release of thyroid hormones. These hormones, T3 and T4, travel throughout the body and regulate the metabolism of cells in the body. The thyroid gland releases these hormones in response to a chemical messaging system which originates in the brain. The hypothalamus and pituitary glands, located in the brain, respond to the level of T3 and T4 in the blood, and through the release of their hormones, signal the thyroid to produce more or less of its hormones. Since these hormones have a profound effect on so many body functions, from weight management to heart rate to body temperature, fluctuations outside of normal ranges can become unhealthy and dangerous. In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland produces too much T3 and T4, altering the body’s metabolic rate and creating symptoms such as those described above. Because thyroid hormones affect sex hormones and their pre-cursors, reproductive dysfunction in both men (infertility, alteration in libido) and women (infertility, alteration in libido, menstrual irregularity) may occur in hyperthyroidism. Women are more likely than men to experience hyperthyroidism, and some recent research suggests a possible association between hyperthyroidism and breast cancer.
The thyroid gland also functions to regulate certain minerals in the body. One such mineral is calcium. The thyroid gland produces hormones to control the amount of calcium in the blood and bone. Because of this interaction with blood and bone calcium levels, hyperthyroidism can result in changes in bone integrity, risk of bone fracture, and/or osteoporosis.
As previously stated, the thyroid is part of the endocrine system, or hormonal messaging system. It is controlled in part by the hypothalamus and pituitary glands in the brain, and is part of a negative feedback-loop system that, when functioning normally, keeps thyroid hormone levels within normal limits. This system can be altered by a number of causes such as Grave’s Disease, inflammation of the thyroid due to factors such as viral illness or childbirth, growths within the thyroid gland or within other endocrine glands such as the ovaries, and overconsumption of iodine and/or thyroid medication. Chronic stress can also disrupt thyroid function in part through its interaction with other endocrine glands, the adrenals. These glands, located atop the kidneys, are responsible for the stress reaction and are part of a stress signaling system called the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis. Disturbance in this system, sometimes caused by exposure to chronic stress, affects hormone levels and the function of multiple other glands and systems, including the thyroid gland. Hyperthyroidism can likewise stimulate the adrenal glands to pump out cortisol, an adrenal hormone that, when chronically released, can potentially cause disruption and illness in almost every other part of the body. Chronic stress and adrenal stimulation have also been implicated in immune system dysfunction, such as in Grave’s disease. Because repeated exposure to stress could be implicated in adrenal and thyroid dysfunction, stress management techniques such as adequate sleep, breathing techniques, yoga, seeking support, etc. could reduce the effect chronic stress and adrenal stimulation has on a person with hyperthyroidism. Some research suggests Traditional Chinese Medicine and homeopathy may possibly be helpful in the treatment plan for hyperthyroidism.
2. Nutritionally/Chemically – The food we eat has the potential to communicate health or illness to the rest of the body. The gastrointestinal tract includes both nervous system tissue and immune system tissue, thus the chemicals and nutrients in foods, and our reactions to them, can be communicated outside the GI tract. The messages communicated can contribute to further dysfunction and illness. In general proper diet which limits processed food, alcohol, caffeine, sugar, starches, trans-fats, etc., and focuses on fresh (organic if possible), plant-based foods, healthy fats and high quality protein choices will support health. During times of stress and to appropriately nourish the endocrine and adrenal gland systems, diet should consist of healthy sources of cholesterol, protein, vitamins A, C, E, and B complex, essential fatty acids, and essential minerals. Those with hyperthyroidism should be aware of how much iodine is in food and other consumed substances such as pharmaceuticals, since iodine affects thyroid function and production of thyroid hormones. Highly stimulatory foods such as sugar and caffeine may negatively affect symptoms. Since bone integrity can be compromised for some with hyperthyroidism, calcium and Vitamin D intake should be monitored. All supplements and medications should be discussed with a physician, as some, especially soy based supplements and iron, could interfere with thyroid function and medication. Diet can contribute to endocrine disruption. Certain foods, medicines, additives, preservatives, artificial colorings, and materials used in food storage, can alter hormone function and signaling. For those with autoimmune or inflammatory contributors to hyperthyroidism, exploring an anti-inflammatory diet may potentially assist in symptom reduction.
3. Emotionally – Thyroid dysfunction can cause alterations in mood and mental health. Some people with hyperthyroidism experience agitation, panic attacks, anxiety, mood swings, delirium, depression, etc. These symptoms can result from excess thyroid hormones in part because the brain and nerves carry responsive receptors to thyroid hormones. This is one example of how the body and mind are interconnected. Emotions communicate with the endocrine and immune systems through hormones and chemicals called neuropeptides and neurotransmitters. Becoming aware of and responsive to emotions (fear, worry, frustration, anger, grief, joy, contentment, etc.) can assist in regulating the health of the endocrine system. Because chronic stress can increase the risk for both hormonal and immune dysfunction, learning to recognize, control, and limit exposure to chronic stress can be helpful. Some opportunities for exploring emotional health and stress reduction include talking with a mental health professional, meditation/mindfulness, breathing and relaxation techniques, yoga, prayer, seeking supportive relationships, and engaging in mild exercise.
4. Environmentally – Environmental inputs, such as metals, household cleaning products, pesticides, plastics, cosmetics, etc., can disrupt the endocrine system. Becoming aware of and avoiding these types of products could contribute to the health of the endocrine system in general. Exposure to environmental toxins such as those found in soil and water, cigarette smoke, etc. increases overall stress upon multiple body systems, and could potentially encourage dysregulation of the endocrine system and immune system and inflammatory response.
Other environmental factors which increase stress exposure and could potentially alter the endocrine and immune systems include abrupt changes in temperature or barometric pressure, bright lights, environmental noise, difficult relationships at home or work, etc. Exposure to the nature can decrease stress and could potentially decrease symptoms. Because exercise can decrease inflammatory chemicals, decrease the stress response, and encourage healthy emotional responses, mild to moderate exercise is recommended but may need to be guided by a physician, especially for those with symptoms such as heart rate fluctuation.
5. Beliefs, Values and Worldview – also identified as Spirituality – Spiritual expression, whether through prayer, meditation, yoga, traditional worship, etc. has an influence on health and wellbeing, often by encouraging an understanding and connection between mind, body, and spirit. Possible feelings of isolation, living in discordance with one’s values, or inability to connect with support and the natural surroundings due to illness or other factors could increase stress and exacerbate symptoms. Finding connection between self, others, and the natural world can communicate health to the immune and endocrine systems and decrease stress during times of illness.