HYPERTHYROIDISM

by Dr. Rajesh Shah

Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones in the body is called as hyperthyroidism (hyper=more).
 

Thyroid is small gland situated in the midline and base of the neck. The gland produces thyroid hormones T4 (Tetraiodothyronine/Thyroxine) and T3 (Triiodothyronine) that are absolutely essential for maintaining harmony of various body functions. Thyroid hormones govern the speed of body’s chemical reaction and have positive influence on growth of an individual (mental and physical). Because thyroid hormones affect growth, development and many cellular processes, excess of thyroid hormones has widespread consequences on the body.
 

Causes of Hyperthyroidism:
There are many causes that can cause overactivity of the thyroid gland and in most cases the entire gland is producing more hormones, this is seen in Grave’s disease. Grave’s disease is actually an auto-immune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly starts attacking it’s own cells (in this case the thyroid gland) resulting in inflammation and enlargement of the gland (Goiter) and production of excess hormones. In some cases, there is a particular solitary nodule in the gland (called ‘Hot’ nodule) that is producing more hormones; there may also be multiple such nodules in the gland Inflammation of the thyroid gland (Thyroiditis) due to any other cause can also result in hyperthyroidism.
 

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism:
Increased secretion of thyroid hormones can produce myriad of symptoms that vary from person to person and with the age of patient. The common symptoms include: 

• Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
• Palpitations
• Heat intolerance
• Nervousness
• Insomnia
• Difficulty in breathing
• Increased bowel movements
• Light or absent menstrual periods
• Fatigue
• Tremors of hands and fingers
• Irritability
• Excessive perspiration

Signs commonly seen in patients with Hyperthyroidism:

• Fast heart rate
• Muscle weakness
• Trembling hands
• Weight loss
• Hair loss
• Staring gaze
• Warm moist skin
• Lump in the neck (Goiter)

Remarks:
Hyperthyroidism being a constitutional disorder calls for an in-depth constitutional approach for its management. The science of homoeopathy is based on the concept that disease is total affliction of body and may find its local expression at the level of certain organs. Hence homoeopathy prescription take into account presenting complaints along with physical, emotional and genetic make up of a person that individualizes him/her. The remedy prescribed based on this entire totality treats the disorder at its root cause and thus restores the normal functioning of the body.
 

Suggestion about homeopathic treatment:
Homoeopathy is very strongly suggested for cases of hyperthyroidism. Homoeopathy helps in alleviating the symptoms associated with the condition. Moreover, homoeopathy works at a deeper level to bring deviations of immunity back to normalcy and to restore the harmony of the body.

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