Showing posts with label thyroid. Show all posts
Showing posts with label thyroid. Show all posts

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Thyroid issues with normal laboratory tests is hypothyroidism, autoimmune or tomb thyroid?

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In my West Los Angeles Thyroid Institute I get hundreds of patients that are frustrated with the way they feel. They feel they have been held hostage by poor healthcare and bad diagnosis. When I explain to them about functional medicine they get very excited. One of the most common patient types I get to work with are the hypothyroid cases. Many of these patients have been diagnosed with Hashimoto's Hypothyroidism and given medication for a problem without knowing why they have it in the first place. I find it frustrating that patients have such limited options and so little information provided to them.

By using specific blood tests such as a thyroid panel (which may include any or all depending on individual need) TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Thyroid antibodies-TGB & TPO, reverse T3, Total T4, Free Thyroxine Index and a resin T3 uptake), a complete metabolic panel, a lipid panel, a CBC (with auto differential), and a UA.

Another important test is to see if you have an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is when your immune system attacks a particular area of the body. I recommend testing for specific thyroid antibodies to determine if you suffer from an autoimmune thyroid.

An antibody is a protein marker. The body's immune system produces antibodies in response to unwanted material like molds, virus, bacteria, and parasites. These substances are labeled antigens. Antibodies can be produced when the body has a reaction to a food it is sensitive to or comes in contact with a harmful chemical. Antibodies can mistakenly be produced against a bodies own healthy tissue when the immune system becomes confused. The antibody marks the tissue for removal and signals the immune response. This is the cause of autoimmune reactions. I like to check for gluten antibodies, myelin (fatty sheath around the nerves) antibodies, cerebellar (back part of the brain controlling balance, coordinated movement, and spinal muscles) antibodies. Testing your adrenal glands via an Adrenal Stress Index or ASI is critical as many thyroid sufferers also suffer from adrenal problems. Have you ever been checked for any of the above antibodies or had an ASI? The common answer patients give me is "no I have not". Finally, I insist on testing the patient for inflammation in their system by testing homocysteine levels and C-Reaction protein.

Think of these tests as pieces of a puzzle. If I was to give you 10 pieces to a 100 piece puzzle you would not be able to put it together. This is what happens when people only get a TSH and T4 test from the lab for their thyroid symptoms. You can't piece it all together without all the tests.

I often get the question "Dr. Beckingham why do I still have symptoms when my tests are normal?" the quick answer is lab ranges are so general that they miss the true functional range. I use the example of a test that says if you are in between the numbers 1 and 10 you are "normal". What if you are a 9.5 on that test? The lab range would say you are fine but in reality you would be within a hairs width away from being sick. You would have symptoms at this level even though your test was fine. This is why I use functional ranges that are more targeted to a patient's health. I enter your blood work into our Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis computer database to determine where the patient sits functionally. Remember, no two thyroid patients are alike so not all thyroid patients should ever be treated alike. Based on your personal blood chemistry, your doctor can determine which products will help you the most.

If someone recommends nutritional supplements and the recommendations are not based on the patient's current blood work, they are doing the patient a huge disservice. You need to do an analysis of the patient's specific condition via their blood chemistry in order to make nutritional recommendations.

In healthy people, the thyroid makes just the right amounts of two hormones, T4 and T3, which have important actions throughout the body. These hormones regulate many aspects of our metabolism, eventually affecting how many calories we burn, how warm we feel, and how much we weigh. In short, the thyroid "runs" our metabolism. These hormones also have direct effects on most organs, including the heart which beats faster and harder under the influence of thyroid hormones. Essentially all cells in the body will respond to increases in thyroid hormone with an increase in the rate at which they conduct their business. More technically most cells in the body have thyroid receptor sites that act like a key hole with the thyroid hormone acting as the key. It is possible to have this key hole blocked by other hormones that are in overabundance in the body.

Before we go any further, let's cover the 3 primary types of thyroid conditions: #1: Hypothyroidism,#2: Hyperthyroidism or Grave's, and #3: Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism #1: Fatigue, tired, or sluggish #2: Cold feet and/or hands #3: Require excessive amounts of sleep to function #4: Gain weight easily #5: Have difficult or infrequent bowel movements #6: Are you depressed #7: Lack of motivation #8: Morning headaches that wear off as the day progresses #9: Thinning hair or excessive hair falling out #10: Dryness of the skin and/or scalp #11: Mental sluggishness Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the body lacks sufficient thyroid hormone.Since the main purpose of thyroid hormone is to "run the body's metabolism", it is understandable that people with this condition will have symptoms associated with a slow metabolism. Over five million Americans have this common medical condition.

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism (aka. Graves Disease) #1: Heart palpitations #2: Inward trembling #3: Increased pulse even at rest #4: Nervous and emotional #5: Insomnia #6: Night sweats #7: Difficulty gaining weight Hyperthyroidism is the medical term to describe the signs and symptoms associated with an over production of thyroid hormone.

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Hashimoto's Thyroiditis is a condition in which the body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland, Hashimoto's is classified as an auto-immune disorder. It is diagnosed by checking the patient for thyroid antibodies (TPO & TGB) and gluten antibodies. Patients suffering from Hashimoto's Thyroiditis will experience symptoms of Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism, meaning that they will experience some or all of the above symptoms. Generally speaking this condition is not a thyroid problem but an auto-immune expression problem. The thyroid gland is a victim of the body and its overactive immune system.

Some forms of treatment for Hashimoto's have been to remove the thyroid gland all together, radiation to kill the thyroid, or to give the patient steroids. This would be great if the thyroid was the problem. You have to focus on why the immune system has gone off kilter in the first place. If the immune issues are not uncovered the system will just move on to attack and destroy other systems of the body. Examples of this are Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus, Diabetes, and Rheumatoid Arthritis. So it is very important to uncover what is driving the auto immune cascade to prevent further damage.

Since the thyroid gland controls the body's metabolism, it can affect all of the systems of the body such as the gut, liver, gall bladder, hormones, cholesterol, brain via neurotransmitters, adrenal glands, and heart. This explains why thyroid patients have such a wide range of symptoms.

I hope this information helps to clear up the thyroid mystery for some people and why they still have thyroid symptoms even when they are on medication and have normal lab tests. I am always eager to talk to people about whatever condition they think they have or have been told they have.

Dr. Ian Beckingham DC specializes in helping patients suffering from chronic conditions such as hypothyroid, Hashimoto's, fibromyalgia, diabetes, vertigo, insomnia, autism, Asperger's syndrome, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, and other autoimmune conditions. Dr. Ian Beckingham has two chronic condition centers in Glendale and West Los Angeles. He enjoys talking about all health issues and speaks often. To schedule a free consultation, sign up for a workshop, get more information on Dr. Beckingham, his clinics, or to receive free information go to http://WestLAThyroidDoctor.com/ or http://DrBeckingham.com/ His email is DrBeckingham@gmail.com

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Monday, February 28, 2011

Underactive Thyroid symptoms in women-tips for spotting hypothyroidism

Underactive thyroid symptoms in women may vary and are often confused with other illnesses. In this article you will learn several ways to identify symptoms of thyroid cancer among women.

Underactive Thyroid, or hypothyroidism may mean that you do not have sufficient thyroxine. This helps reduce the metabolic rate, overweight, poor memory, dried out skin and fatigue. This ailment is due to a lack of thyroid hormones in the body. Often times resulting in autoimmune disease, autoimmune condition, is responsible for most cases of hypothyroidism in the United States she often affects women and can cause high cholesterol.

Thyroid conditions are one of the most common women's health. Underactive Thyroid symptoms describe in 50% of women undergoing menopause. Menopause is a difficult and challenging period in the life of women.

Hormonal changes that occur during menopause can lead to psychological problems, as well as physiological. Thyroid disease can even be the result of a violation of the menstrual cycle.

Before women get pregnant, their functions of the thyroid gland must be normalized if they have pre-existing conditions. Once they are pregnant, they usually take thyroxine. The dose should be increased, and future of thyroid function tests should be administered.

Common symptoms Underactive thyroid cancer in women

Here is a list of common under active thyroid symptoms in women. Again, some of these symptoms could be sign of other serious illnesses, and this should not be used as a self-Diagnostics. If your conditions will persist, you should consult your physician.

Fast weight gain is one of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism. If you notice that you gaining excess weight, but not eating that much, it may be a sign that your metabolism has slowed down, and this may be because your thyroid gland is not functioning properly.
If you are experiencing stronger and more menstruations than usual, it can also be a sign of underactive thyroid. If this continues for several months, it's best to talk with your gynaecologist.
Fatigue can be caused by many things, including not getting enough sleep, exercising too much, or not eating properly. However, it is also a sign of symptoms underactive thyroid cancer among women, too.
If your body starts to look bloated and puffy, she can save too much water. This could also be a signal that your thyroid gland is not functioning properly.
Other underactive thyroid for women, the symptoms: joint pain and muscle pain, signs of depression, forgetfulness, very dry skin and cold sensitivity.

Myxedema is a condition of the skin and a contemporary form under active thyroid symptoms in women. This can lead to diseases such as congestive heart failure, if not treated. While this condition is rare, you should be aware of the seriousness of hypothyroidism, if left untreated. For this reason, it is better to take care of this disease quickly.

It is clear that the symptoms of underactive thyroid cancer among women should be taken seriously. Your body usually has a way to prevent potential problems. Listen to these warning signs and get adequate treatment


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Sunday, February 27, 2011

Natural Thyroid Treatment

Disorders of thyroid gland, either hyper or hypo, have traditionally treated with drugs or surgery. In many cases, these therapies are effective only partially, and patients may not experience the full long-term relief of symptoms. Alternatives to drug therapy available and in most cases offer full relief in just months.

The real underlying causes dysfunction thyroid can vary and often include one or more of the following:

Chemical exposure ~ environmental chemicals as food additives, pesticides, hormones, and chlorinated drinking fluoridated water can disable thyroid function. Toxic halogen, compete heavily for space in the receptors of iodine on thyroid, iodine can block absorption of chlorine and fluorine. Iodine is an essential nutrient for healthy prostate function. Thyroid, iodine deficiency will not work properly.

Heavy metals ~ amalgam and composite fillings have large amounts of mercury and aluminium, which have far-reaching negative effects on overall health.

~ Nano bacterial infections, Mycoplasma, bioplenkah may go undetected in the body and can suppress the function of the gland.

Radiation ~ dental and other x-rays on thyroid gland function can be overridden. Make sure you ask the shield for the throat, if you need x-rays.

Bad digestion ~ inability to absorb minerals and nutrients leads to low functioning organs and glands throughout the body. Stress and the use of acid inhibitors significantly reduce the body's ability to absorb and assimilate nutrients.

Toxic liver ~ liver blood should I clean all the toxins and treating hormone levels on a daily basis. If liver stagnation and does not work effectively, toxins and excess hormones will continue to circulate in the blood, organ and gland function.

Pituitary and adrenal glands, are also a primary or secondary dysfunction thyroid and should also be addressed to achieve full recovery.

Restore thyroid disorder can take just a few months for those who take no synthetic hormones. Once the synthetic hormones further suppressed gland function, as they always do, recovery may take a bit longer, but entirely possible.

QRA (Quantum reflex analysis) is one of the best ways to detect latent infections, heavy metal and chemical toxicity, radiation exposure and bad functioning of organs and glands. Short term nutritional therapy can safely remove toxins and infections and support organ and gland healing, letting life relief of thyroid dysfunction. Natural methods for health promotion in General and will help to establish a body which is resistant to disease in the future.

For more information on how you can reverse the natural thyroid disorders and achieve optimal health please contact the Office at 407-328-6711

Kathy is a Board certified and licensed m.d. East and doctor of acupuncture. She graduated with honors from Florida's College of integrative medicine.

Kathy has received extensive training in acupuncture, Chinese herbology, nutrition, and Western medicine, Acupoint therapy, cosmetic acupuncture injections, quantum reflex analysis (QRA), emotional Repolarization technique (ERT) and other holistic modalities. She received specialized training in addiction and Detox therapy and acupuncture detoxification specialist certified as (ADS) through the national acupuncture detoxification Association (Nada).

Please visit her website for more information: http://www.cfpreventivemedicine.com/

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Subclinical hypothyroidism symptoms: you should be worried about this disorder of the thyroid gland?

Subclinical hypothyroidism symptoms can be run at any time, so you should be prepared and aware of the signs. Although this is not an easy disease to diagnose, you still need to have some concerns about some of the symptoms and get checked.

Subclinical hypothyroidism occurs when several high levels of TSH identities (stimulating thyroid hormone). Thyroid hormones stimulate not created in the thyroid gland, pituitary gland. The main function of TSH is to assist thyroid in production of thyroid hormones.

If you have higher levels of TSH, this means that you could be suffering from hypothyroidism. If you are not getting enough TSH, which can cause hyperthyroidism.

Big debate in the medical community, when to treat patients who have a subclinical hypothyroidism symptoms or signs. Some doctors believe that it is only necessary to monitor these patients and other health professionals, both want medicine to stop it from becoming a full-blown hypothyroidism.

There is good reason for treating elderly persons or persons with weakened immune systems, once they start, symptoms. The feeling is that people in these groups often have hypothyroidism risk in the near future.

The following checklist of subclinical hypothyroidism symptoms: famous

GainDifficulty unexpected weight gain full night sleepProblems and changes in the concentrations of menstruationDifficulty and easy to forget thingsInability tolerate dry depressionProblems with coldExtremely skinBouts lossLoss appetiteLoss visionPremature hair from certain hearings

Most subclinical hypothyroidism symptoms no differently than regular hypothyroidism. Symptoms are broad and include things that you see in many other diseases. Subclinical hypothyroidism symptoms are not always present in certain cases. Some patients have no symptoms. This is what makes it so difficult to diagnose.

Other facts about subclinical hypothyroidism:
Patients have an increased risk of heart failure in the future. Women increase their risk of miscarriages and birth babies, which might be caused by abnormalities. Low dosage of thyroxine is proposed for specific risk groups, including people with a family history of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular problems: from the majority of patients who suffer from this condition of those who had some kind of treatment, feels more common.

So what do you do if you think you show subclinical hypothyroidism symptoms? The first thing you should do is schedule a doctor take the test. If it is positive that you have the disease, you should discuss all your options with your doctor. There is no justification for hasty decisions, because you have time to think it.

If you don't want to take any medications, you should carefully monitor your symptoms during the following months. If they get serious or any other questions, then you should definitely get treatment.

Important is that in most cases, hypothyroidism can be seen fairly easily if they are taken care of in advance. In addition, there are many online resources that can educate you and help you on your way to recovery.


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Saturday, February 26, 2011

Hurthie cell carcinoma a rare type of thyroid cancer

what is carcinoma cells of Hurthie? This type of tumor, i.e. an increase of thyroid and some researchers believe that this carcinoma associated with changes in DNA. The carcinoma is very unusual and relatively rare type of differentiated thyroid cancer. Although less than 5 percent of the diseases of the thyroid gland diagnosed Hurthie Carcinoma, it is usually more aggressive than other thyroid cancer.

at risk of developing Hurthie carcinoma cells? Patients tend to be older, occurring mainly in their 70s and 80s. Women for some reason, more prevalent in the ratio 2: 1. There is a risk if you have had radiation to the head or neck. Approximately 30 percent of patients diagnosed with this condition is or was not malignant thyroid diseases such as chronic disease graves or tireoidit.

What are the symptoms of Hurthie carcinoma cells? Patients may suffer from pain in the neck or throat, sometimes extending to the ear. Subject to change in the voice or hoarseness. Two other symptoms of Difficulty swallowing and breathing. One of the symptoms and often the only clinical sign, which is the most common is the fastest growing piece of the neck just below the Adam's apple.

cell carcinoma diagnosed As Hurthie? The physician will receive a patient's medical records along with physical examination and laboratory activities, including blood tests to check the function of the thyroid gland. To confirm the diagnosis doctor will order one or both of the following tests: validate ultra sound or fine needle aspiration biopsy.

How is processed Hurthie carcinoma cells? Surgery removes most or all of the thyroid gland. Just a little bit of the thyroid gland can stay close to the parathyroid glands is to reduce the risk of damaging them. Often after nearly a full thyroidectomy is radioactive iodine therapy. This procedure is used to destroy any thyroid tissue that may remain after surgery.

what medicines you need after surgery? Once you have your surgery, you will need to provide a synthetic product, called levothyroxine also know as Synthroid, Levoxyl or Levothroid. These drugs are safe and you have to take them for the rest of your life. Your doctor will order a regular blood to determine the right dose for you.


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Thyroid disorders affect the whole body, including poor sleep due to sleep apnea

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By Dr. Karl R.O.S. Johnson, D.C. Dr. Karl R.O.S. Johnson, D.C.
Level: Basic

Dr. Karl Johnson is a chiropractic physician and medical writer in Shelby Township, Michigan. Dr. Johnson's areas of expertise include chiropractic, functional medicine, functional neurology ...

The thyroid is a small butterfly shaped gland located in your neck. Though it weighs only about an ounce, the thyroid gland has some very important functions to carry out that have a major impact on one's health. It maintains body temperature, controls the rate of energy production (including oxygen use and basal metabolic rate), regulates the skeletal and muscular growth of children and heavily influences brain chemistry and thus brain function.

Additionally the thyroid gland has major influence in all of these areas:

Enhances a portion of the nervous system called the sympathetic nervous system.Promotes breakdown of blood sugar, mobilizes fats, essential for protein synthesis, enhances the liver's synthesis of cholesterol.Promotes normal adult nervous system function and mood.Promotes normal functioning of the heart.Promotes normal muscular growth and function.Promotes normal GI motility and tone; increases secretion of digestive juices, particularly that of the gallbladder and the stomach.Promotes normal female reproductive ability and lactation.Promotes normal hydration and secretory activity of the skin.

The thyroid gland takes iodine, which is found in many foods, and converts it into thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). It is estimated that Iodine makes up about 0.00004% of total human body weight and iodine is found in highest concentration in the thyroid the gland cells. These cells combine iodine and the amino acid tyrosine and hydrogen peroxide (using an enzyme called thyroid peroxidase or TPO) to make the hormones T4 (thyroxin) and T3 (triiodotyrosine), which are then released into the blood stream and transported throughout the body attached to a protein called Thyroid Binding Globulin (TBG).

It is important to understand that T4 is inactive thyroid hormone and about 93% of the thyroid's production of hormone is T4. Only about 7% of the hormone the thyroid gland produces is active thyroid hormone (T3). The 93% inactive T4 hormone must be converted to T3 in order for this active hormone to generate all the important effects in the body. 60% of T4 is converted to T3 in the liver and 20% is converted into another inactive thyroid hormone called reverse T3 (rT3). Another 20% of T4 is converted to T3 Sulfate (T3S) and triiodothyroacetic acid (T3AC) and is acted upon by the digestive tract bacteria (assuming your digestive tract is in healthy balance of bacteria) and fully converted to T3. Any remaining T4 hormone that wasn't transformed into T3 or inactive T3 forms will be converted into T3 by the peripheral tissues (such as in brain cells, kidneys and muscle cells).

Only the active T3 hormone exerts is controlling effect on metabolism and all the other functions it governs or modulates. The thyroid is the master gland of your metabolism and so it has a very important job. People who suffer from thyroid malfunction experience many different kinds of health complications affecting a multitude of systems in their body. Every cell in your body had thyroid hormone receptor sites so that little gland affects the function of every cell in your body!

An estimated 27 million Americans suffer from thyroid dysfunction, half of which go undiagnosed. Women are at a and estimated 24 times greater risk of developing thyroid malfunction and this risk increases with age and also for those who have thyroid dysfunction within their family.

When the thyroid gland begins to malfunction many doctors neglect to ask the very important question of why. Adrenal problems, hormonal imbalances, poor blood sugar metabolism, irregular immune function and gut infections are all signals that the thyroid might be depressed.

Many times replacement hormones are used in an effort to wipe out symptoms without understanding what has caused the thyroid to malfunction in the fist place. More often than not the relief these drugs provide is short-lived, or never really works, because in order to really address the health of the very important thyroid gland, the systems of the entire body must be taken into account. So even though you are taking medications for thyroid dysfunction you may still have problems with your thyroid (even though your TSH levels are in the normal range). For example you can have problems with how the thyroid hormones are transported or how inactive T4 hormone is converted to active T3 hormone. You may have issues with the end effect the thyroid hormone is intended to have at the cell level.

Here is a List of The Influences of Thyroid Hormones on Physiological and Metabolic Function

Bone: Deficiency of thyroid hormones lead to a decrease in bone development and an abnormal architecture of the bone that is created. Generally, a functionally low (which means low but not flagged as of yet) serum calcium is noted in hypothyroidism. Elevated thyroid hormones causes an increased serum calcium, as it pulls calcium from the bone, leading to increased risk of pathological fractures of the spine and weight-bearing joints.Gastrointestinal Function: Transit time is affected directly by thyroid hormones as is absorption of nutrients.Male Hormones: Hypothyroidism has been linked to diminished libido and impotence. Although this condition is more rare in men, it must be considered in treating these conditions.Liver and Gallbladder Function: Low thyroid function caused decreased liver clearance and gall bladder congestion through thickening of the bile, often also associated with an elevation of cholesterol. Unfortunately, also often treated with cholesterol lowering drugs while the thyroid function is the cause of the elevated cholesterol.Body Composition: As you may know all too well, low thyroid function causes an inability to lose weight. This is caused by a slowed conversion of glucose and fat into energy, and altering the way Human Growth Hormone (HGH) is metabolized in the body.Blood Sugar Regulation: Low thyroid slows the insulin response to glucose following eating carbohydrates or sugar and it also slows glucose uptake into cells and tissues, and slows absorption of glucose from the intestinal tract. In other words, your entire energy production system is slowed. It is quite confounding to your body and brain, in that the glucose is in the blood, but the tissues are not able to absorb it. This really confuses the pituitary gland and adrenal glands, resulting in a "stress physiology," even if life is good.Cholesterol: As mentioned earlier, low thyroid increases your cholesterol and triglycerides, so your doctor tells you your diet is poor. You become even more strict in your diet, and the tissue starvation (low glucose, low energy) gets worse, which makes the stress physiology worse, which makes your cholesterol higher, which prompts your doctor to put you on cholesterol medication, which interferes with energy production, which further stresses your physiology...whew! You are frustrated!Depression: Low thyroid impairs the production of stimulating neurotransmitters, which are the chemicals that antidepressants work on. Low stimulating neurotransmitters leaves you, as one of my professors described, feeling "lower than a snakes belly."Female Hormones: Low thyroid changes the way estrogen is metabolized in the body, shifting toward an estrogen metabolite that has been proven to increase the risk of breast cancer.Stress: Low thyroid slows the elimination of the stress hormone cortisol, which leaves you feeling stressed out, not because of "stress," but because the stress hormone can't be removed efficiently.Detoxification: Low thyroid slows an enzyme critical for metabolic biotransformation, or detoxification, the process by which the body binds and removes all environmental chemicals, and normal byproducts of metabolism, including hormones. "Toxicity" further slows your metabolism, and leads to headaches and other toxic symptoms.Digestion: Low thyroid reduces the release of Gastrin, which determines the output of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, leading to poor protein digestion, sour stomach, and GERD.Thermoregulation: Regulation of body temperature is affected by low thyroid, resulting in hot flashes and night sweats, which is especially prominent in perimenopausal women. This is often blamed on estrogen dropping, but may be directly caused by low thyroid.PMS and Infertility: Low thyroid affects the progesterone receptors, making them less sensitive to progesterone, which feels like low progesterone, although the progesterone levels may be normal. Since the activity of progesterone is diminished, the health of the uterus is insufficient for implantation in the second half of the female cycle, leading to difficulties getting pregnant and PMS. Low thyroid also reduces sex hormone binding proteins, leading to an increase in estrogen activity.Anemia: Low thyroid, as mentioned affects protein metabolism, which then lowers the red blood cell mass, which carries oxygen to tissues for metabolism of energy. Yes, another mechanism for feeling lousy.Homocysteine: Low thyroid slows a process called methylation, often evidenced by elevated serum levels of homocysteine. Elevated homocysteine in the blood has been proven as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative disorders, and cervical dysplasia.

Due to the effect the thyroid hormones have on so many systems of the body, including metabolism and nervous system function, a minimum of two mechanisms can lead to sleep apnea. Number one is the weight gain that typically occurs about the face and often, an enlarged thyroid gland, which can physically impede airflow through the airway, leading to sleep apnea. In addition the reduction in proper thyroid hormone leads to impairment of the part of the brain stem that is in charge of the cardio-respiratory centers, thus leading to abnormal breathing patterns during sleep. Weakened respiratory muscles due to hypothyroid myopathy can be a third cause for sleep apnea.

As you can see, living with low thyroid has far reaching effects on your health and function. There are as many as 24 published mechanisms for thyroid function to be impaired. Visit http://www.helpmychronicpain.com/Shelby-Township-Thyroid-Answers/ to become informed about how to get a functional diagnosis, that truly gets to the root of your thyroid health challenges so you can regain the zest in your life and sleep better.

Dr. Karl R.O.S. Johnson is a chiropractic physician and medical writer in Shelby Township, Michigan. Dr. Johnson's areas of expertise include chiropractic, functional medicine, functional neurology and spinal rehabilitation. He is the author of the "Ultimate Strategy" series of eBooks on the topics of fibromyalgia, balance disorders, migraine and other debilitating headaches and well as unresolved thyroid symptoms. For more information and to receive my FREE informative thyroid answers DVD, free report and eBook please visit ShelbyThyroidAnswers.com or call 586-731-8840.

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Article Submitted On: January 19, 2011


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Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Thyroid function

The thyroid gland is located in front of them below the neck and thyroid cartilage, which is known as apple to Adam. This gland is responsible for the production of hormones that regulate the metabolism of the organism. The main role of hormones produced by the glands regulating energy body, use of other hormones, vitamins, as well as growth and maturation of tissues in the body.

Just like any other part of the body of the thyroid gland is subject to illness. Thyroid disease can be very problematic and therefore need to seek emergency medical care. Diseases can lead to excessive production of hormones or very small production. Thyroid gland diseases are more common in women than in men.

Hormone production begins in the brain hypothalamus. This part of the brain starts production of thyrotropin, which travels over the venous Plexus to the pituitary gland. The Pituitary gland, in turn, produces-stimulating hormone in the blood. This, in turn, stimulates the thyroid gland to produce its two hormones, namely L-thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Two hormones require thyroid have enough iodine in order to be able to produce them.

Pituitary gland is responsible for the regulation of hormones, the thyroid gland. It responds accordingly by adjusting quantity – thyroid hormone in the blood.

Thyroid GOITER is the most common disease of the thyroid gland. This is largely due to iodine deficiency. Thyroid cancer is a common disease.


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Monday, February 21, 2011

Thyroid nodules and natural thyroid treatments

If you have hyperthyroidism and thyroid nodules, then you might wonder, natural thyroid treatment protocol could be reduced if these. Natural thyroid treatments can help many people with thyroid nodules, although I must admit that there is no way to tell how to in advance whether such a protocol would decline, any may be required. In addition, if you have any of the following conditions might be best to receive immediate medical intervention, rather than wait for natural thyroid treatment methods "blow".

Malignancy: this is obvious, requiring medical intervention, like thyroid nodules found cancer, then natural thyroid treatment protocol is recommended. Of course if the person has thyroid nodules surgically removed, which is a likely scenario in this situation, the person can still follow this Protocol to restore their health and prevent the formation of other nodules (if they don't get a full thyroidectomy). However, at present, initially diagnosed malignant thyroid nodules, most likely will need to follow To your endocrinologist. That doesn't mean you should never get a second opinion to confirm the findings of the first endocrinologist. But if both doctors agree that surgery is the best option is probably a good idea to follow their recommendations.

Causing obstacle: if the nodules of thyroid gland causes an obstruction that is difficult to breathe and/or swallowing, then this is another good reason to get immediate medical intervention. Although natural thyroid treatment protocol may shrink the thyroid nodules and help with the obstruction, the problem is that it will take time for these treatments. So surgery is usually required if someone difficulty swallowing or breathing due to thyroid nodules.

results in hyperthyroidism: if someone is hyperthyroidism, and then develops one or more nodules of thyroid gland, the natural thyroid treatment protocol very well may be the best option. On the other hand if they develop hyperthyroidism due to thyroid nodules, then some type of medical intervention may be necessary to manage symptoms. However, this does not necessarily mean the person shall receive radioactive iodine therapy or surgery.

If thyroid symptoms are serious but manageable with medication, the patient can do something to take anti-thyroid medications and/or beta blocker, and at the same time start the natural thyroid treatment protocol. This allows symptoms under control and at the same time give natural cures thyroid time entered into force and hopefully shrink the thyroid nodules. If this is unsuccessful then Rai or surgery may be necessary, but in my opinion is worth at least giving a try natural cures thyroid methods to help preserve the thyroid gland.

If it causes any other serious symptoms: in addition to the above script any other issue that involves serious symptoms caused by thyroid nodules may require medical intervention. Again because it takes time to see a reduction in symptoms following natural thyroid treatment protocol for this. So if someone serious discomfort or pain caused by one or more nodules of thyroid gland, then they could have the surgery.

Why thyroid surgery often recommended?

In many of the above situations endocrinologists would recommend that the patient is not their thyroid removed, rather than just thyroid nodule, himself. If necessary, surgery an ideal only nodules of thyroid gland are removed, and if it is not possible to have partial thyroidectomy. However, many doctors seem to recommend a full thyroidectomy under these circumstances that I do not understand. So if you ever should have your thyroid gland is completely removed, would strongly advise you to seek a second opinion.

This is because although any operation has its risks, surgery of the thyroid gland can be even more risky. While this may not lead to many deaths, it is not uncommon for someone has their parathyroid glands are damaged or other surrounding structures, damaged when receiving surgery of the thyroid gland. In addition when someone has their thyroid removed completely, they should be natural or synthetic hormones for the rest of their lives.

What upsets me when a patient has one or more benign thyroid nodules don't have any symptoms, and still continues to recommend surgery. I don't know why any endocrinologist could recommend surgery under such circumstances. If If thyroid nodules benign or cause serious problems, why run the risk of surgery? This is especially true when the doctor recommends surgery of the thyroid gland is asymptomatic nodules. Fortunately it's not too often, but it happens.

In summary, if you have hyperthyroidism and one or more nodules of thyroid gland thyroid natural treatment methods can help you. However, if you have a situation described above, where immediate medical intervention is required, then better consult an endocrinologist or other type of doctor as you need to understand what it will take time for treatments of natural thyroid to work.


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Wednesday, February 16, 2011

TSH levels-understand your TSH levels, and monitor your thyroid gland

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is a peptide hormone that is secreted by the pituitary gland, which is located at the foot of the brain. Its main function is to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, thyroxine and triiodothyronine, or T4 or T3. TSH is also responsible for maintaining levels of thyroid hormones in the body.

TSH levels in the blood may be an indicator of performance of the thyroid gland. If there is a problem with the thyroid gland, it will reflect the TSH levels in the body. Thus in order to determine a basic thyroid disease, the doctor usually orders TSH blood.

There is a normal range TSH, which is evidence of active or healthy thyroid, but any deviation from the normal range is a sign of under-active or thyroid disorders. TSH normal range is 0.4-LM 4.0 U/l. any other value that are above or below the normal range indicates that you have a thyroid problem.

High levels of TSH

If the blood test results indicate high levels of TSH, this indicates that your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, body. This condition is called hypothyroidism. When this happens, the pituitary gland then releases the hormones to stimulate more TSH to produce more thyroid hormones of the thyroid gland.

High levels of TSH is an important indicator of malfunctioning of the thyroid gland. It also means that there may be problems with pituitary gland. Surgery, medication and pituitary gland tumor of other factors that may cause high levels of TSH in the body.

Low levels of TSH

TSH low blood result implies that you have a hyperactive thyroid, which often produces too much thyroid hormone. This condition is called hyperthyroidism. Low TSH is also an indicator of problems with pituitary gland.

TSH blood test result it is very important to diagnose thyroid problems. A test that is above or below the normal range TSH is a testament to the deficit or surplus of hormones in the body. It is therefore very important to maintain normal levels of TSH. Treatment of abnormal TSH level depends on whether you are suffering from hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Once you have been diagnosed, it is important to see a doctor for proper treatment and medicines.


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Friday, February 11, 2011

Underactive Thyroid drugs: discover top medicine and supplements for hypothyroidism

Underactive Thyroid medication is necessary in most cases of the disease, although with subclinical hypothyroidism can sometimes temporarily detain medication or no medication.

Hypothyroidism remains one of the most be misdiagnosed diseases that exist. It has many symptoms, and everyone can be symptoms of hundreds of other diseases. So if you give a doctor your symptoms, don't be surprised if they, firstly, I think perhaps it was something entirely different.

here is a list of the most common medicines Underactive Thyroid:

of thyroxine is a hormone that is often used as a medication hypothyroidism.Levothyroxine another hormone drug is used. It usually is taken in tablet form and helps in most hypothyroidism symptoms such as weight gain, sensitivity to cold, hair and dry skin.Desiccated thyroid is a mixture of various hormones of the thyroid gland, and is also used as a prevention of goitre.Liothyronine used to Myxedema. High doses can be very toxic and should be used with caution.

In addition to these common drugs, some people are turning to more natural underactive thyroid medications, such as:

Iodine-most people receive iodized, should be using regular table salt, which includes iodine. However, too much salt is not good for you. Kelp is a form of seaweed that is rich in iodine. You can use dry on your food, integrate it in soups, or you can take the kelp tablets.Bladderwrack-Bladderwrack is another type of algae that-drug natural underactive thyroid. Bladderwrack is also high in many other minerals, too.Selenium-selenium should help stimulate the thyroid hormone. Many patients that were diagnosed underactive thyroids found low amounts of selenium. Selenium included many multivitamins in pill form independent.

These products natural underactive thyroid should be used only to supplement your other procedures. However, they allow you to prevent your thyroid gland is not functioning properly.

Possible side effects of Underactive Thyroid drugs:

Almost all medicine is possible side effects and underactive thyroid medication is no different.

High doses can cause anxiety, insomnia, sweating, tremors, rapid heart beat, dizziness and other. The best way to avoid side effects is to take only the recommended amounts prescribed by your doctor. However, your doctor can subscribe amount too high. If you start feeling any side effects, you need to talk with your doctor, so that the dosage may be changed or medicines are subject to change.

Finally you should have your blood tested every six months for quantity of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Doctors can be used to determine if your thyroid gland is functioning correctly or not.

Like any illness the sooner you get proper medical care, the more likely you're going to get well faster. It is possible for most people to live a normal life with underactive thyroid. There are those who only need to be taken temporarily, while others would be forced to continue the thyroid medicine for most of their lives.


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Thursday, February 10, 2011

Thyroid Disease

is a disease of the thyroid is a disorder that interferes with thyroid function and causes an imbalance in the production of thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism is underactivity (low levels of hormone production) thyroid and hyperthyroidism concentration (high level of hormone production). Measurement of thyroid hormone is often used as a criterion for selection. Level of hormones, which are high could mean an inadequate homone output and low levels may indicate an unregulated output.

Nodules of thyroid gland may or may not be cancer. Irregular Pansionery mean possible cancer nodules, even tho it is sometimes very difficult to identify cancer of noncancerous. Medical biopsy is one, the only way to ensure this diagnosis, and this can be done by a thin needle or surgery. The first sign of thyroid cancer, enlarged lymph nodes in the neck region (below the adam's apple). Thyroid nodules especially when found in aged 20 and potential, malignant neoplasms, much more.

A hormone that thyroid produces firmly controls the level of calcium in the organism and to a lesser extent, levels of magnesium, hence the term hypo (i.e. low) Calcemia (meaning calcium). Hypocalcemia is a disease where the low level of calcium in the body. Some signs and symptoms of low calcium include cramping, cramps, diarrhea, low blood pressure, nausea and vomiting.

Thyroid surgery is performed on a couple of reasons, one being to assess what thyroid malfunction is and fix goitre (tumors in thyroid gland) that you can click on critical structures. Complete removal of a thyroid gland, including lymph nodes, is an important treatment of thyroid cancer. Be careful in removing the thyroid to prevent damage to adjacent structures.


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Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Iodine and thyroid health

Iodine is an essential mineral, especially with regard to the health of the thyroid gland. Many people with thyroid, iodine, and long addresses this deficiency, there is very little chance to have their health restored through natural thyroid treatment protocol. The reason for this is because iodine is necessary for the formation of thyroid hormone. So if someone iodine deficiency, it's often lead in hypothyroid condition.

However, Yoda, and many people with hyperthyroidism. In fact, I was diagnosed with autoimmune thyroid condition and I was iodine and therefore had to be supplemented with iodine. Therefore, regardless of what type of thyroid cancer you have, it is essential to receive adequate testing to confirm whether or not you are lacking in this crucial mineral.

Why do so many people are iodine deficient?

There are many different reasons why people don't have enough iodine. One of the main reasons is due to poor farming techniques, which leaves the soil depleted, many different nutrients and minerals, including iodine. Another reason why many people are iodine deficiency due to bread dough conditioners are manufactured with bromide, whereas many years ago they were made with iodine. This is important because bromide competes with Yoda, and therefore all of these products contain methyl-consumers, she in turn replaces iodine, making people iodine deficient.

Other halogens, iodine may displace, fluoride and chloride. And most people are exposed to these halogen on a regular basis, which is another reason why so many people are iodine deficiency. So you want to try to do everything you can to minimize your these toxins.

How to determine whether you have iodine deficiency

With regard to how you can determine whether you have the most accurate method of iodine is Yoda, load testing. This test is urine that requires you to take the first pill 50 mg of iodine/iodide, and then within a 24-hour it determines how much iodine is saved. Someone will maintain a high percentage of iodine, iodine is consumed. According to those who developed this test, a person who takes the test and has lower than 90% iodine richness and thus is a candidate for iodine supplementation.

Another, less accurate way to determine whether someone iodine is via check patch iodine. This test requires painting 2 x 2 inch square patch on the forearm, using 3% iodine tincture. For those without iodine deficiency rectification should take more than 24 hours to completely disappear. Someone say the poor will have patch disappear from 13 to 24 hours. And if anyone has a patch to disappear within 12 hours or less, they are iodine deficient.

Although I don't recommend iodine patch testing for my patients for diagnosis of iodine, I advise them to use it as a follow-up procedure. In other words, I recommend for someone starting from both Yoda loading test and at the same time making verification patch iodine, emphasis on results of urine test. But then I do a test patch follow Yoda on a monthly basis, just to see if there are any significant changes, and then will recommend follow-up of iodine, Loading test after three months.

Eliminating iodine deficiency

For those with thyroid iodine is important not only to take supplements of iodine quality, but slow to go about this process. In other words you don't want to automatically get 25-50 mg of iodine per day, although some physicians will recommend it. By the way for all you need to know about Yoda, I highly recommend reading the book "Yoda, why, why can't you live without it" written by Dr. David Brownstein.

When I was diagnosed with autoimmune thyroid condition, I started taking one tablet Prolamine 3 mg of iodine, which is a supplement of iodine production company called standard procedure. I grew up the dose of one tablet every week and after I took eight pills a day, I switched to a product called Iodoral, allowing me to adopt similar dose, but it comes in 12.5 mg tablets. Both iodine supplements are high quality, and along with the addition of other components of natural treatment protocols, daily taking iodine helped restore my health, back to normal.

I know this probably sounds like a lot of iodine taken, and it's not that everyone will have to take so much iodine. On the other hand, some people may need 50 mg of iodine daily to address a serious shortcomings. It all depends how iodine deficiency you. Well what good quality iodine supplements are relatively inexpensive to purchase.

Autoimmune thyroid conditions & iodine

If you have an autoimmune thyroid condition, then you may be able to address your iodine immediately. If you have Graves disease, this shouldn't be a problem if only if you happen to be allergic to iodine, which is rare. On the other hand someone with Chronic thyroiditis can supplement of iodine at once. Taking iodine would actually lead to greater destruction of thyroid gland, so anyone who has Chronic thyroiditis will first address the autoimmune response.

Of course most endocrinologists and other doctors label these conditions as incurable. So instead of the address component of the immune system, they will just put someone thyroid medication to control symptoms. In this context, more and more people are turning to natural thyroid treatments to recover, rebuild their lives.

Restore your health through natural thyroid treatment protocol

Although the iodine is essential for restoring health back to normal, often times, other factors should be considered as well. This is where the natural thyroid treatment protocol comes into play, as this will help identify any problem areas or additional shortcomings, you might have that can help, or in some cases, directly causing your thyroid condition.

It is important to understand that in many cases, faulty thyroid is not the cause of the thyroid gland. Why just giving thyroid medications to control symptoms is often times a big mistake, because in many cases, the actual cause may be detected and corrected. Despite the fact that some people will try to treat their condition self-test, it typically does not lead to optimal results, and that is why I recommend that anyone with a thyroid condition, consult with your doctor the competent natural endocrine. Such a doctor will be able to determine what is causing your thyroid condition and if possible, put you through natural treatments to cure the cause.

Short of iodine can directly cause or contribute to the development of the thyroid gland. Taking iodine is important to clearly address this shortcoming, but just remember that other factors may play a role in the development of the condition of the thyroid gland, which is why consultation with competent natural endocrine physician is usually a good idea how many thyroid conditions can be cured through Protocol natural cures. Finally do not forget that there is an excellent book, which discusses the iodine deficiency in detail, and although the name may seem boring (iodine, why you need it, why can't you live without it), this book is actually a very interesting and readable.


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Tuesday, February 8, 2011

9 Top thyroid disruption toxins to avoid

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Every cell in your body depends on your thyroid gland to function properly. Specifically, your cells use the hormones produced by your thyroid to regulate a range of metabolic processes, including getting energy from the food you eat.

Your thyroid hormones also help regulate your body temperature and play a role in the proper functioning of your brain, heart, muscles and other organs. When working properly, your pituitary gland will release thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triggering your thyroid to produce the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4), which is then converted into triiodothyronine (T3), in the precise amounts your body needs to thrive.

However, this is a very delicate system, one that is easily disrupted by outside influences, including the chemicals that are ubiquitous in our environment. This is one prominent factor that is increasingly being linked to disruptions of the thyroid, disruptions that can seriously impact your health.

What Types of Chemicals Can Disrupt Your Thyroid?

There are concerns regarding numerous chemicals that are currently abundant in the environment.

Nine of the chief offenders include:

1. Phthalates

Phthalates are widely used chemicals often used to make plastic flexible. They're commonly found in shower curtains, medical tubing and plastic toys, as well as in numerous personal care products such as fragrances, nail polish and lotions. Because the chemicals are so widely used, they're also present in drinking water supplies.

Known to cause reproductive and developmental toxicity in animal studies, phthalates can also impact thyroid regulation by decreasing thyroid hormone receptor activity -- at levels found in drinking water.[1] Currently, drinking water treatments do not effectively remove thyroid-disrupting chemicals like phthalates from your drinking water.

2. Flame Retardants

Polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) are flame retardant chemicals commonly used in furniture foam, carpets, upholstery, clothing, toys, draperies, electronics and more. It's estimated that up to 97 percent of Americans have PBDEs in their blood.

The chemicals easily accumulate in your fat cells, and increased levels have been linked to a decrease in TSH levels and an increased risk of subclinical hyperthyroidism in pregnant women.[2]

3. Bisphenol A (BPA)

BPA is another plastics chemical commonly used in polycarbonate water bottles, baby bottles, plastic toys, medical tubing, food packaging, dental sealants and more. Widely known as an endocrine disrupter that can cause developmental problems, early puberty, genital deformities and more, BPA has also been linked to thyroid disruption.

In one study on frog tadpoles, low levels of BPA exposure -- similar to those found in human infants -- interfered with the T3 hormone and thereby suppressed genes controlled by T3, resulting in slowed development and other changes.[3] Previous animal studies have also linked BPA to disruptions in thyroid receptors and thyroid function.

4. Dioxin

Dioxin is a group of chemicals -- including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polychlorinated dibenzo dioxins (PCDDs), and polychlorinated dibenzo furans (PCDFs) -- that are formed as byproducts from industrial processes like chlorine paper bleaching, pesticide manufacturing and smelting. Dioxin was also a part of the toxic Agent Orange used during the Vietnam War.

PCBs, another type of dioxin, were widely used prior to 1977 when they were banned due to environmental concerns. However, they and other dioxins still exist in abundance in the environment, including in your food (especially meat, dairy and seafood).

Not only is dioxin a known carcinogen, but it also has been found to interfere with the production, transportation, and metabolism of thyroid hormones.[4]

5. Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFOA)

PFOA and a related chemical called PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate) -- widely used in nonstick cookware, stain-resistant materials and food packaging -- can also cause trouble with your thyroid.

One study found that people with high levels of PFOA in their blood were twice as likely to have thyroid problems as those with the lowest levels[5] while past studies have also linked the chemical to decreased thyroid hormone levels. It's not known how PFOA may cause thyroid disease, or whether the chemical directly impacts the thyroid or instead the immune system, causing it to attack the thyroid gland.

6. Fluoride

Most municipal drinking water supplies in the United States contain added fluoride, a measure that's intended to reduce rates of tooth decay. It can also enter water supplies from fluoride-containing rocks and soils.

Studies have shown that exposure to fluoride can result in decreased thyroid function, including at exposure levels of 4 mg/L or less, which is the EPA maximum allowable concentration for fluoride in drinking water.[6] The effects may be especially problematic for children and people who drink a lot of water.

7. Perchlorate

Perchlorate is a byproduct of rocket fuel production that is now a widespread contaminant in drinking water, certain fruits and vegetables and dairy products from cows that eat contaminated grasses.

Research suggests it can inhibit your thyorid's ability to absorb iodine, leading to an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, even at low-level exposure. In a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it was estimated that 44 million U.S. women -- including those who are pregnant, have lower iodine levels or have subclinical hypothyroidism -- could be at increased risk of thyroid problems from perchlorate exposure.[7]

8. Thiocyanate

Thiocyanate is a chemical found in cigarettes and certain foods. It may inhibit iodine uptake by the thyroid, leading to decreased production of thyroid hormone.

9. Pesticides

Thyroid disease has also been linked to pesticide exposure from a variety of sources. Among women whose spouses were licensed pesticide applicators that had used organoclorine insecticides, rates of hypothyroidism were 1.2 times higher than in the general population. Increased rates of thyroid disease were also found among women exposed to fungus killers, herb killers and other types of pesticides.[8]

How to Reduce Your Exposure to Thyroid-Disrupting Chemicals

Chemicals are ubiquitous in our environment, but there are steps you can take to help cut back on your exposure. Some of the top suggestions include:

Use natural personal care products with ingredients you are familiar with. At the very least look for phthalate-free options.Buy children's toys made of natural materials, or at least phthalate-free plastic.Avoid exposure to old carpeting and carpet pads and polyurethane foam products (upholstered furniture, mattresses, pillows) manufactured prior to 2005 (these are most likely to contain PBDEs).Store your food and beverages in glass or ceramic containers instead of plastic, and do not reheat foods in plastic containers or covered in plastic wrap.Limit your use of canned goods and soda cans (the linings often include BPA), or look for BPA-free canned items.Trim the fat from your meats to cut back on dioxins stored in animal fats, and choose leaner cuts of meat.Avoid polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics, such as plastic milk jugs.Look for unbleached sources of household products like coffee filters, tampons, diapers, paper towels, etc.Avoid using non-stick cookware, opting for stainless steel, ceramic, or other inert materials instead.Install a reverse osmosis water filtration system in your home to remove fluoride from your drinking water, and consider a comprehensive filter to also remove other chemicals like perchlorate.Avoid smoking cigarettes and exposure to second-hand smoke.Choose organic foods as much as possible to limit your exposure to pesticides. Also, do not use the chemicals around your home (including chemical lice treatments and flea and tick products for pets).

With the evidence increasingly showing that exposure to environmental chemicals, even at low levels, can negatively impact your thyroid, and the knowledge that even small changes in your thyroid homeostasis can influence your health, it's important to reduce your exposure as much as possible.

By making small changes in your food choices and your personal care products and paying special attention to finding household goods made from primarily natural sources, you'll be off to a great start in protecting your thyroid function from these pervasive toxins.

References

1. Environmental Science and Technology 2010, 44 (17), pp 6863-6868

2. Environmental Health Perspectives October 2010, 118(10)

3. Endocrinology Vol. 150, No. 6 2964-2973

4. Alternative Medicine Review 2009 Dec;14(4):326-46

5. Environmental Health Perspectives 118(5) May 2010

6. Committee on Fluoride in Drinking Water, National Research Council, Fluoride in Drinking Water: A Scientific Review of EPA's Standards, 2006

7. Environmental Working Group News Release October 4, 2006

8. American Journal of Epidemiology (2010) 171 (4): 455-464

The Functional Endocrinology Center of Colorado provides hope to patients with Type II Diabetes and Hypothyroidism by providing alternative paths to care. Founded by Dr. Brandon Credeur, DC, and Dr. Heather Credeur, DC, the center is located at 4155 E Jewell Ave, Ste 1018, Denver, CO 80222, 303-302-0933, http://www.drcredeur.com/.

Copyright 2010. All Rights Reserved. The Functional Endocrinology Center of Colorado.

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Monday, February 7, 2011

Thyroid Storm: natural treatments can help the thyroid gland?

Thyroid storm-severe condition that affects only a small percentage of people with hyperthyroidism. In fact, only about 1-2% of people with hyperthyroidism develop thyroid storm. However, for those people who develop this condition, it is deemed an emergency that requires immediate intervention.

In support of this can be understood by looking at the symptoms of thyroid storm. People with this condition may experience increased HEART RATE, which exceeds 200 beats per minute, along with palpitations, increased blood pressure, chest pain and shortness of breath. So although I am a supporter of cure conditions holistic methods, the first thing that someone needs to do with this condition to go to the emergency room and receive medical interventions to control symptoms. Once symptoms are under control, one then you can start the natural thyroid treatment protocol will help you to recover his health back to normal, which I'll discuss shortly.

As the symptoms of thyroid storm managed?

Because the symptoms of thyroid storm were serious, often use a combination of different drugs. This may include anti-thyroid drugs, beta blockers and medication iodine blockade. If the infection is contributing to thyroid storm, then it will be necessary as well.

Again, we do not recommend the use of nutritional supplements or herbal remedies to treat the disease. Although there are some effective additives and herbs to help with hyperthyroidism, they will take some time to "kick in". When someone has thyroid storm, they should have symptoms under control quickly, as if someone has a pulse 200 beats per minute, this situation threatening lives and should be addressed right away. Most herbs do not act quickly enough to control symptoms.

Using natural treatments for thyroid after storm thyroid under control

After you successfully storm thyroid symptoms, you can then start the natural thyroid treatment protocol will help you to restore your health, back to normal. When I was diagnosed with graves ' disease, which is an autoimmune thyroid condition, I followed the natural thyroid treatment protocol, which eventually eliminate my symptoms are normalized my blood tests of the thyroid gland and other tests, I got. So for those who say that there is no cure for hyperthyroidism or disease graves and recommended to take anti-thyroid medications or radioactive iodine treatment, you can consult a doctor in natural endocrine system. The problem is that most endocrinologists and other doctors do not know how to do anything other than prescribe drugs, perform surgery, etc.

Don't get me wrong, because not everyone with hyperthyroidism and Graves disease can be cured, and sometimes necessary medicines and other medical procedures. I certainly was skeptical when I was first diagnosed with Graves disease. Even though I am a holistic practitioner, I remain concerned about whether natural treatment methods will work. All I know at the time, I wanted to do everything I could to avoid receiving therapy of radioactive iodine, and luckily everything worked fine. However, I'd be lying if I told you, if it was a difficult process because it takes some time to regain my health back to normal, and so anyone looking for quick and easy treatment will be very disappointed.

Stop managing your symptoms and the cause of your condition

Natural healing methods are effective because they are trying to get to the actual cause of the riot, instead of simply managing symptoms. On the other hand methods to monitor ongoing treatment for hyperthyroidism symptoms. For example when I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, my primary care physician, I was prescribed a beta blocker to help with increased heart rate and palpitations, I was experiencing. Then I went to see the endocrinologist, where I was diagnosed with graves ' disease and then told her to take anti-thyroid medications and beta blocker. I personally took no anti-thyroid medication or beta blockers, but I am sure that if I followed her full recommendations, I eventually would be on the road to radioactive iodine therapy.

It is important to understand that in most cases thyroid storm, hyperthyroidism and Graves disease thyroid gland itself is not the actual cause of the problem. Another area of the body is almost always has the responsibility for the condition of the thyroid. For example in Graves disease, obviously compromised immune system, but does not attempt to resolve the autoimmune response. But even when someone not so amazed on the condition of autoimmune thyroid gland, thyroid gland, itself is rarely the cause of the problem.

Looking for recommendations of competent holistic medical doctor

If you are interested in using natural treatments for thyroid gland to help restore your health, back to normal, the first thing I recommend is to talk with your doctor the competent holistic who focuses on endocrine disruption. Thus you can find out if you are a good candidate for withdrawal, and if so, the doctor will then recommend natural thyroid treatment protocol. Before doing so, they are likely to recommend one or more additional tests in addition to the thyroid blood tests, you probably already have. For example if they suspect that the problem with your adrenal glands, they will probably recommend checking adrenal stress index. If they think you might have a hormone imbalance, then they may recommend to male or female hormone panel. Or they can test you for certain nutrients.

Once they have determined the actual cause of your thyroid condition, they will again recommend natural thyroid treatment protocol, which potentially can restore your health, back to normal. As I mentioned earlier, this Protocol is not easy to follow, because it will likely include some extreme changes in your lifestyle, including eating well, getting enough sleep, do a better job managing stress, etc you'll likely will also be encouraged to take some food additives and/or herbs. And while this is a good amount of time to restore health, someone will get back to normal, the good news is that in most cases did not take long to see some positive changes. When I started my natural thyroid treatment Protocol I'm starting to see some really positive changes in my symptoms after only a few weeks of care, although it took several months before the results of my lab is back to normal.

In short if you have a thyroid storm, you need to go to the emergency room and get this treatment immediately. Using natural treatments for thyroid gland in the present case is not a good idea. On the other hand once you have a thyroid symptoms under control after natural thyroid treatment protocol can potentially restore your health back to normal. At this point it's a good idea to consult competent natural endocrine physician determine if you are a good candidate, so you can start the road to recovery.


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What is a TSH and how it relates to low thyroid?

One of the most common questions patients suffering with thyroid problems, "what is TSH?" If you are being treated for low thyroid, you probably know that that is checked in your TSH blood work. Your doctor checks the TSH when diagnosing low thyroid gland, and when trying to determine whether your medication. But what TSH and what means the results of the TSH blood?

TSH thyroid hormone stimulation is decrypted, and it really isn't all that weird.

Simply put, when underactive thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormone, TSH levels go up to increase production. TSH hormone from the pituitary gland and basically just a way for your body to make sure your thyroid gland is working properly.

If your TSH levels high, this means that you have low or underactive thyroid. This is typical for people who suffer symptoms such as depression, mood swings and inability to lose weight. Other symptoms of low thyroid cancer include fatigue and lack of energy.

If you sleep all night awake in the morning with no energy and then feel as if you could sleep all day, this may be a sign of low thyroid. Many people with low thyroid experience more than one of these symptoms.

Drugs you you prescribed if you are diagnosed with low-or underactive thyroid gland are typically used to TSG leves. Taken on the orders, these drugs can bring TSH in safe or "normal" range. This is generally considered to be the only treatment for underactive thyroid most cases after the traditional model.

After the medication has brought your TSH normal range may still be problems with your low thyroid. This can be a very frustrating situation. Your doctor can tell you your thyroid gland is now fine on the basis of your blood, but your body telling you something quite different.

If this sounds like something you experience, you need more score, since the probability that something has been missed in your diagnosis. Only deeper investigation will reveal the reasons why you are continuing to suffer from low thyroid symptoms, even if the blood work shows your TSH now under control.

Denver thyroid Doctor, CNRT Dr. David Arthur, DC, DACNB, FACFN, is a leading expert in low thyroid gland and thyroid disorders in Denver, Colorado. He works with women (and men) of all ages living with thyroid problems. Dr. Arthur takes a unique, neurological and functional medicine approach to treatment of the thyroid gland. If you are suffering from thyroid problems and want answers and solutions, visit http://www.denverthyroidexpert.com/

Article source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr_David_Arthur

Dr David Arthur - EzineArticles Expert Author

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Sunday, February 6, 2011

Why so far I have low thyroid symptoms when I take thyroid medication?

Low thyroid problems abound in modern society.

Poor thyroid is vulnerable to many negative forces, which include the environment substances such as mercury, nitrates, pesticides and plastic compounds.

Also affects the thyroid cross-reaction with drugs. Drugs that impair thyroid Physiology, unfortunately, are very similar. These include anti-inflammatory agents, diabetic and hypertensive meds, anti acid, cholesterol lowering drugs and pain medications.

Imbalances in the rest of your body's hormonal system can also profoundly affect the thyroid gland physiology. The hormones estrogen, testosterone, cortisol, for example, you can change how to produce thyroid hormones associated, transported and how thyroid receptor.

Sometimes I think it's amazing, all we have thyroid dysfunction!

The most common reason for hypothyroidism, where your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone is called autoimmune disease. Some experts have found that up to 90% of all low functioning thyroid glands in the United States is about the disease.

What is autoimmune?

Auto immune disease where your body mistakenly identifies the thyroid gland as a foreign substance that attacks and destroys it, slowly. One study found that 7-8% of the population of the United States, have antibodies against their thyroid. Another study showed the thyroid antibodies to a good marker for future thyroid disease.

Unfortunately these people slowly lose their thyroid tissue until enough has been lost to officially be diagnosed as hypothyroid. As they lose their thyroid tissue, they also reduced their energy, mental acuity, mood, temperature, gastro-intestinal motility, etc.

As a final insult when they get diagnosis as hypothyroid, their treatment options are limited to only replace thyroid hormones. Nothing is done for this autoimmune attack that still loss thyroid tissue as a person continues to decline or did better with thyroid hormone replacement.

It is common in traditional medical practices to replace hormones level, without asking why the hormone levels are low in the first place. In the case of hypothyroid, this approach can lead to people being treated for low thyroid with synthetic hormones of the thyroid gland, having every symptom of dysfunction thyroid, seen as a new entity that requires medication.

Such common hypothyroid symptom is depression. When the thyroid hormone replacement not depression, anti-depressant medication is used. This approach leads to a Laundry list of drugs that can be eliminated if the autoimmune nature of this problem was addressed.

How do you address excessive immune system?

Stay tuned for that in a future article.


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Friday, February 4, 2011

Refill your thyroid gland

Your thyroid gland is located in front of the neck and is responsible for supporting all functions of your body, including your metabolism. Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with thyroid disease, and most of them suffer from hypothyroidism, which means there is not enough thyroid hormone released do their job. Women are affected more than men and during the last three decades has become epidemic.

The world of natural medicine consider that this epidemic of thyroid problems due to malnutrition, toxins, chemicals and pollutants that are part of our modern world. The foregoing also contribute to obesity, diabetes and chronic diseases, but symptoms often overlooked or brushed off within a stressful life.

The first step in figuring out if you are having problems with the thyroid is to get the level of hormone test, which includes testing your thyroid-hormone known as TSH. If it falls above the normal range, this means the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone and brain requests the pituitary gland to make more of the hormone. Unfortunately knowing TSH levels will not always tell the whole story to what makes thyroid hormones in the body.

Unit tests completely thyroid is important to know not only TSH levels but T4, T3 and Reverse T3 levels and naturopathic physician who will really listen to your symptoms, even if everything looks great on paper. Sometimes support the thyroid is necessary, no matter what numbers speak in your panel test. Many doctors prescribe medications, which are usually synthetic bio identical hormone, which helps those dealing with low T4, but those related to low T3 do well with glandular supplementation.

There are some lifestyle changes and natural remedies that will improve the health of the thyroid gland:

1. Brown algae-because it's full of iodine that helps correctly thyroid function and the consumption of this precious mineral has been dramatically reduced over the years with people cutting back on salt and not eating enough fish. Make sure you know if your level of iodine is too low, but complementary, with good quality kelp or seaweed is an excellent place to start. Another important reason to adopt kelp is because in the early 1970s, Yoda was replaced with bromine in flour products that prevent is absorbed by body by iodine deficiency.

2. avoid vegetable oils-are found in many seasoned citrus soft drinks and made commercial bread which then blocks the uptake of iodine.

3. buy organic fruits and vegetables-especially Strawberry because they covered pesticide called methyl bromide that can affect the thyroid function. Thoroughly wash them or look for shops that offer good organic products.

4. your minimize bromine, which often is replaced by chlorine in pools and hot tubs. Another set of bromine is used as a flame retardant in automotive, furniture, clothing and electronics.

5. eat whole foods at each meal

6. take the time to Diffused body-if you are under constant stress, the adrenal glands to produce hormones of stress, causing insomnia and adrenal fatigue. This can result in damage to the thyroid gland, as your cells cannot absorb the thyroid hormones, you produce. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night. Listening Meditation CD during the fall asleep help to reduce stress in your body and lighter sleep naturally.

7. Selenium--mineral, walnuts, Brazil nuts, tuna, Turkey and cod. Deficiencies can cause thyroid problems so make sure you get enough of this important mineral additives.

8. delve into yoga positions in yoga on the proper application of the body and can be very therapeutic and restorative whole body pain reduction and maintenance of the thyroid gland in the process.


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Wednesday, February 2, 2011

You asked for low thyroid, but still cannot lose weight

One of the most frustrating symptoms of low thyroid is weight gain. Although patients may have multiple symptoms of low thyroid, is something, they often expect most settlement with treatment.

Inability to lose weight despite cutting down the amount you eat and exercise more may make other symptoms of low thyroid, such as depression feel even worse. Unfortunately many patients who are receiving treatment for low thyroid, still cannot lose weight--no matter how much they diet or exercise.

Inability to lose weight is often a symptom that offers patients seek low thyroid treatment with their primary care physician. Unfortunately "weight loss problem", always is not fixed. In fact, it is very common, still have a problem, even if your doctor certifies your thyroid treatment "works and your thyroid is fine.

If you're in this situation, ask your doctor why are you still having weight loss. If you reply, "you just have to eat less" or "you need to exercise more," you should consider other options ... most likely, you are already doing so.

If you hear these answers, they are simply incorrect answers and you get the solutions needed.

The most common reason why patients fail to lose weight, even when asked for low thyroid is ... something happening within and underlying cause problems. Something missing in your diagnosis and treatment.

Exists twisted Web things go wrong when your thyroid gland is not functioning properly, and it takes a deep investigation to determine how this is your inability to lose weight.

In seeking solutions, choose a doctor or a doctor who will make a deeper appreciation of the need to understand why you can't lose weight or even maybe putting on more weight despite low thyroid treatment. Which you choose to do blood work, but other comprehensive tests, such as saliva and food allergy testing.

It's the only way this symptom can be resolved and you can develop a successful treatment plan as dieting and exercise more, simply cannot correct reasons why this happens.


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Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Effects of high levels of thyroid gland thyroid Vs low in the human body

The thyroid gland is located in the neck and has the shape of a butterfly. Its main function is to control the body's metabolism. The most common forms of disorders of the thyroid gland are symptoms that make people too tall or too short, too thin or too fat. Gland produces four hormones, most important for the body absorb and eliminate all substances that enter the body.

High levels of the thyroid gland or hyperthyroidism causes a series of effects that need medical attention. Untreated, these conditions can lead to sudden infant death syndrome and other health problems such as heart disease, bad skin or hair loss and even thyroid cancer. Whit the patient this condition can have insomnia, which are slightly different from the common Sleeping disorder. Ordinary insomnia sufferer has trouble getting to sleep, but he can sleep during most of the day.

Hardly people with hyperthyroidism can fall asleep and wake up suddenly. This Sleeping disorder mainly occurs in people with hormones T4 disorders. This hormone is responsible of metabolic processes taking place inside the body, such as the food assimilation or replacement sleeping hormone.

Another sign of hyperthyroidism is weight loss. The accelerated metabolism of the patient does not assimilate fat suppose eliminates most vital substances, causing a small weight. Symptoms occur, and endocrinologist may become an issue when diagnosing this condition.

Fast heart beats or tachycardia is also linked to thyroid, through active. Hormones in the body must be a reasonable number of organism to function normally. low level of hormones, secreted by the thyroid gland from against side-effects.

Although symptoms may be similar, there is a big difference in hypothyroidism. Because the hormones can no longer keep metabolism going as it should, a patient receives a lot of weight quickly. Also there are trouble falling asleep, and although people with hyperthyroidism are overactive in hypothyroidism may be tired, no matter how much they sleep.

This problem is more common among women than men, and it primarily affects women over the age of 30. History of the family also plays a major role in disorders of the thyroid gland. If the mother has hypothyroidism, it is rather for her daughter suffered from the same mess.

Effects of hyperthyroidism are sometimes difficult to diagnose than have hypothyroidism. The first condition manifests itself slowly and weight can be lost in a few moths, time in which the glands can produce great damage. In hypothyroidism patient acquires weight faster in about a month. Endocrinologist always obeys thyroid check the ones that got a lot of weight, inexplicable.

If the thyroid gland is dangerous to the body, autoimmune conditions, when the body attacks the cancer patient may have glands removed. Hormones are added on a daily basis in predetermined quantities that calculates the endocrinologist in reports of his weight and other body functions.


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Hidden causes your thyroid condition

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The first thing we will talk about is Hashimotos Thyroiditis, This is a condition that is grossly under diagnosed in this country, I have read estimates that show this condition effecting 1/2 of diagnosed hypothyroid condition. According to the American Association of clinical endocrinologist there are 27 million people in the US with this condition and more than 1/2 go undiagnosed. So if 1/2 go undiagnosed and 1/2 of the diagnosed have Hashimotos that's a lot of sick people. I believe that those estimates are conservative and a much greater number of individuals are suffering with Hashimotos and don't know it.

This is a crime because if you have Hashimotos you have and auto immune condition not a thyroid condition so you are being treated for the wrong thing. let me say that again but differently, you do have thyroid problems but they are due to the fact that your thyroid and thyroid enzymes are being attacked by your immune system. This needs to be handled completely different than a traditional hypothyroid condition, and that's why so many patients as well as doctors are frustrated with these cases.

The reason this autoimmune condition goes undiagnosed is #1 your lab values may look normal this is where a practitioner of functional medicine is needed you need to look at functional levels as opposed to traditional lab values. Functional medicine is a cutting edge approach to many chronic conditions. Functional medicine practitioners are like medical detective looking to restore function not just treat your symptoms or diagnosis. #2 if your doctor gives you thyroid medication and your thyroid stimulating hormone or TSH level return to normal then your doctor feels the treatment was effective. So why do you still feel like crap? Because you still have the autoimmune condition that caused the thyroid symptoms.

Running the appropriate testing can detected Hashimotos Thyroiditis. One such test is a thyroid antibody test to see if you are making antibodies to your thyroid.

So the 1st hidden cause of you thyroid condition is Hashimotos Thyroiditis.

The second factor is estrogen. Excess estrogen will increase thyroid binding globulin. thyroid binding globulin will prevent your inactive thyroid hormone from converting to the active form T3 when this happens your TSH might look normal your T4 might look normal and you doctor might tell you everything is fine but why do you still have symptoms. This is why it is so important to run a complete thyroid panel in this case the marker we are looking for is T3 uptake T3 uptake is inversely proportional to thyroid binding globulin, if we find that you low T3 uptake and have high thyroid binding globulin we need to look at estrogen and that is a whole other topic, but very important to the true resolution you thyroid problem.

So the 2nd hidden cause of you thyroid condition could be estrogen.

Now remember I said hidden causes because many times the doctor you are seeing will not pick up on these causes, and there are two main reasons for this. #1 not running the proper test and in your doctors defense this is all about training when you are trained in drug treatments and the experts you rely on for training are experts in drug training that's why we've seen patients from the mayo clinic that could not be help until they found us. So not running the test from a functional perspective as opposed to drug treatment perspective. #2 the lab ranges they are comparing to are pathological ranges comparing you to sick people we look at functional ranges comparing you to healthy people. This is why your test are normal but you know you are not normal you feel bad.

So back to cortisol. Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands and they sit right on top of the kidneys your adrenal glands are your stress glands and have a few functions but when you are exposed to long term chronic stress the gland can get overwhelmed and production of cortisol an indication of the function of the adrenal glands. One of the problems that can happen is excess cortisol this can result in the production of excess cytokines this can inhibit the pituitary from producing TSH thyroid stimulating hormone.

One of the test I run for my patients is called an adrenal stress index test to determine adrenal function. Now when you have adrenal dysfunction it can cause other problems so a nice side effect is not only do you get your thyroid better but other areas like you adrenal glands get better in the process.

So the 3rd hidden cause of you thyroid condition could be cortisol.

Remember when I was talking about cortisol I talked about how the pituitary makes thyroid stimulating hormone and that this is many time the only marker many doctors look at to determine how much medication to give you. One of the factors in the pituitary function is dopamine if dopamine production is off that can affect the TSH production of the pituitary, I think you are starting to get the picture that our bodies are made up of many inter related functions that need to work together, it's a team effort.

The big question is not if your TSH is low in the functional range or the traditional pathological range by why is it low and it could be dopamine. Let's not forget that low dopamine can have its own symptoms like feeling of worthlessness or lake of focus your doctor may have you on other medications for those symptoms like antidepressants or Ritalin. The beauty of functional medicine in getting to the underlying cause of your thyroid problem we will likely correct other underlying problems all at the same time, I think that is really cool and that's why I love this unique approach t thyroid conditions.

So the 4th hidden cause of you thyroid condition could be Dopamine.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter and serotonin problems can give symptoms like depression, anxiety, it is interesting to note that there can be many causes of thyroid problems just like many causes of depression and sleep disorders so treating any of these by just using the symptom as a guide does not make sense you must be a detective and do many test to find the underlying dysfunction.

With serotonin we may do a number of things, one of which is a neurotransmitter assessment form and a comprehensive metabolic profile.

So if you are having symptoms of anxiety, depression, sleeping disorders, symptoms like PMS and carbohydrate cravings it could be a serotonin problem.

So the 5th hidden cause of you thyroid condition could be serotonin.

Prolactin is another hormone that can affect your pituitary if you remember earlier we talked about how the pituitary makes TSH or thyroid stimulating hormone. So if you have increased prolactin that will suppress the pituitary and suppress the production of TSH.

Remember that as long as your TSH is within the pathological reference range your doctor will not pick this up and that's because he is not trained to look for functional ranges. I want to stress for all of you who love your doctor, he/she is doing the right thing for which they were trained. It's all about training and that is why I have done extensive training in functional medicine and that is what enables me to help people who could not previously be helped.

So what is causing prolactin to be elevated? It could be low dopamine and progesterone. Anything that suppresses dopamine and progesterone function can increase prolactin and suppress TSH this is where the real doctoring comes in do the testing. If you've been told your labs are normal or even if you're on thyroid hormone and its helps why do you need it?

So if prolactin is an issue you could have symptoms such as difficulty getting pregnant and leakage from the breast for men you may have decreased libido since prolactin suppresses testosterone the male sex hormone. And yes we have treated patients for thyroid and in the process they got pregnant once we restored proper prolactin levels, really cool and again why I love doing this type of work.

So the 6th hidden cause of you thyroid condition could be prolactin.

Cytokines are chemicals in the body that are produced in response to stress and or inflammation. If you have high levels of stress and by stress I mean emotional as well as chemical. Many people will say I'm not that stressed but they are and hove no idea how chemically its reeking havoc on their bodies. You can have toxic exposure to chemicals like some of my patients that work in nail salons or dry cleaning facilities, if you have a condition called leaky gut you can have food proteins stressing your immune system. The point is there are many hidden stressors in today's world and if your cytokines are elevated it can suppress thyroid stimulating hormone, sometimes not enough to show up on the pathological lab ranges but enough to show up on the functional ranges.

In order to find out if cytokine elevation is contributing to your thyroid problem you need to do the testing. We look at markers such as interleukin 6 interleukin 10 to evaluate cytokine function. Once again this is not standard testing with your typical thyroid specialist, remember we are looking at function and trying get to the underlying cause of your condition not just trying to figure out how much TSH to give you.

So the 7th hidden cause of you thyroid condition could be cytokines.


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