Thyroid Disease 

[A Complete Guide]

Thyroid disorder is a common problem that affects more women than men. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located inside the neck and just above the collarbone. The thyroid is a type of endocrine gland that makes hormones. There are mainly two types of thyroid- hypothyroid and hypothyroid. In hyperthyroidism the thyroid is produced in excess whereas in hypothyroidism the production of this hormone is reduced.

What is Thyroid?

The thyroid has an endocrine gland that produces two hormones called triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). The production and secretion of these hormones are controlled by thyroid-stimulating hormones (TSH). TSH is produced in the pituitary whose secretion is controlled by thyroid releasing hormone or TRH. These hormones are responsible for the normal metabolic process of the body.

Thyroid problems arise when the thyroid gland produces more or less hormones. An imbalance in the production of hormones can occur due to the formation of cancerous or cancerous cells in the autoimmune or thyroid gland or inflammation in the gland. Globally, more women suffer from this disease than men. 0.5% of women suffer from thyroid as compared to 0.5% of men. The formation of more or less thyroid hormone affects every cell in the body.

Types of Thyroid Disease

Symptoms of Thyroid Disease

• Goitre disease
• Lose weight
• Nervousness, anxiety, discomfort or mood swings
• Tiredness 
• Feeling too hot
• Breathlessness
• Heartbeat fast
• Sleep less
• Excessive thirst
• Redness or dryness in eyes
• hair fall

The most common symptoms of Hypothyroidism:

• Gaining weight
• Weakening of nails and hair
• Skin dryness and thinning
• Hair loss
• Feeling too cold
• Depression
• Muscle stiffness
• Sore throat
• Mental stress

The most common symptoms of Thyroid Cancer:

• Rapid lump in the throat
• Neck swelling
• Change in voice
• Difficulty swallowing food
• respiratory distress
• A persistent cough without any infection or allergy

Causes of Thyroid Disease 

1.There are various causes of Hyperthyroidism:

• Graves disease: It is an autoimmune disease in which auto antibodies stimulate the gland to produce and release a large amount of thyroid hormone. This problem is seen in more women than men.
• Knee in thyroid gland: Due to formation of knot (which is not cancerous) on thyroid gland, excessive amount of hormones can be released.
• Excess intake of iodine: Iodine is an essential micronutrient for the production of thyroid hormone. However, excessive intake of iodine can lead to hyperthyroidism.
• Pregnancy: Hyperthyroidism can occur due to hormonal changes during pregnancy. The production of thyroid hormones may increase when cancerous cells develop in the pituitary gland.

Risk factor:

• Pregnancy
• Smoking 
• Autoimmune diseases such as Sjogren's syndrome

There are various causes of Hypothyroidism:

Hypothyroidism occurs due to hormone deficiency. It is of two types, one is due to the thyroid gland and the other is due to a disorder related to the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus.

Causes of primary Hypothyroidism: 

• Hashimoto's disease: The thyroid gland becomes less active due to autoimmune inflammation in the thyroid gland.
• Deficiency of Iodine: Iodine plays an important role in the production of thyroid hormone after the thyroid gland and can cause hyperthyroidism.
• Thyroidectomy: A surgical procedure in which the entire thyroid gland or some part of the thyroid gland is removed. This may later take the form of hypothyroidism.
• Radiotherapy
• Thyroid dysgenesis
• Congenital hyperthyroidism

Causes of secondary Hypothyroidism:

• Pituitary adenoma (growth of cancerous cells)
• Pituitary surgery
• Head trauma
• Hypothalamic tumor

Risk factor: 

• If a member of the family has hypothyroidism, the risk of it increases in other members also. Congenital hypothyroidism is common in this condition. Apart from this, a diet with low iodine is also an important factor in hypothyroidism.

There are various causes of Thyroid Cancer:

• Genetic cause: The person with thyroid cancer has the highest risk of cancer from the genes.
• Radiation: Carcinogen is a popular radiation. These radiation cause carcinogenic changes.
• Diabetes: Increased insulin resistance and TSH levels can increase the risk of thyroid cancer in diabetes patients.
• Hormone: Estrogen plays an important role in thyroid cancer. The study has revealed that women who underwent hysterectomy (uterine removal surgery) had a higher risk of thyroid cancer.
• Lifestyle: Taking high amounts of nitrates in the diet and food additives can also cause thyroid cancer. Smoking and lack of physical activity can also play an important role in causing thyroid cancer.
• Autoimmunity: Patients with Graves disease and Hashimoto thyroiditis have a higher risk of thyroid cancer.

Risk factor: 

• Women are at higher risk of this
• Genetic
• TSH label increase
• Autoimmune disease
• Exposure to toxic chemicals and radiation

Note:- It cannot be said clearly that iodine is related to thyroid cancer. Some studies have shown that inadequate iodine intake can cause thyroid cancer, while several studies indicate that iodine-rich seafood increases the likelihood of thyroid cancer. Therefore, it is not clear how iodine causes thyroid cancer. Therefore, it is better that you take the right and appropriate amount of iodine.

Prevention of Thyroid Disease 

Hyperthyroidism

The apparent cause of hyperthyroidism has not yet been known, due to which the prevention of this problem is also difficult. However, the risk of hyperthyroidism can be reduced by removing stress and smoking addiction and with the help of a balanced diet.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is caused by genetic and hormonal causes, so it is difficult to stop it. However, investigation and treatment of this disease is quite easy. Adequate iodine intake and a balanced diet can help prevent hypothyroidism.

Thyroid Cancer

Prevention of thyroid cancer is also very difficult. However, detecting the faulty gene and removing the thyroid gland can help prevent cancer. The risk of thyroid cancer can also be reduced by not being more exposed to radiation.

Treatment of Thyroid Disease

Hyperthyroidism

The following treatments are available for hyperthyroidism such as-

• Medications: Radioactive iodine ablation, anti-thyroid drugs such as neomercazole (to slow the release of hormones) and anti-inflammatory medications (to relieve symptoms) are advised.
• Surgical removal of the affected part of the thyroid gland or thyroidectomy.
• Use of artificial tears to relieve dryness of eyes.

Lifestyle Changes:

Apart from medicines, thyroid gland activation can also be monitored by making some lifestyle changes. Regular health checkups, quitting smoking and yoga can help control thyroid problems. A balanced diet with vitamins, protein, calcium, iodine and magnesium can also help in relieving the symptoms of hyperthyroidism and improving overall health.

Hypothyroidism

Regular thyroxine supplements are the most common treatment for hypothyroidism. After the start of treatment, regular blood tests should be done so that the dose can be changed according to the hormone level in the blood. In Ayurveda many herbs are used to treat hypothyroidism. You can talk to your doctor about the use and dosage of Ayurvedic medicines to treat hypothyroidism.

Lifestyle Changes:

Apart from medication, thyroid hormone levels can be controlled with the help of checkups, exercise and yoga.

Thyroid Cancer

Treatment for thyroid cancer depends on its type and level of thyroid cancer. The following treatments are generally available for the treatment of thyroid cancer:

• Surgery: The whole or part of the thyroid gland and the lymph nodes of the neck are removed by surgery.
• The remaining thyroid tissue after surgery is removed with radioactive iodine therapy.
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy: Intravenous anti-cancer drugs.
• Targeted therapy: eliminating cancerous tissues with drugs.

Lifestyle changes:

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and non-smoking can help control thyroid cancer to some extent.

Also read: Big Reasons of Growing Belly Fat

Risk and Complications of Thyroid Disease

Hyperthyroidism

Treatment is selected based on age, sex, and patient's condition. If left untreated on time, the disease can increase and affect the eyes and skin. The following types of difficulties can be encountered due to hyperthyroidism such as -

• Cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and hot failure
• Paralysis
• Osteoporosis
• Infertility due to irregular menstruation
• Thyroid storm in the part where thyroid hormone is released in some quantity

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism can be treated with regular doses of thyroxine. If taken with the right treatment, then there can be a serious problem due to hypothyroidism like-

• Atherosclerosis (deposition of cholesterol inside the arteries) can cause problems when the thyroid gland is less active. In some cases, it can also cause the thyroid gland to enlarge to meet hormonal requirements.
• Apart from this, a condition of myxedema coma can also occur due to hypothyroidism. Myxedema coma is a very dangerous condition. It is characterized by very low production of thyroid hormone.

Thyroid Cancer

Cancerous cells can be prevented from growing with the help of timely screening and treatment. Carcinoma can cause cardiovascular and metabolic problems by affecting thyroid hormone levels such as-

• The cancer can spread to nearby areas and affect the function of the vocal tract. It can also spread to the lymph nodes due to which it can become more difficult.

Note:- 

Thyroid treatment advice:

The thyroid can be easily controlled by getting the endocrinologist examined at the right time. Some changes in lifestyle, intake of regular medicines and periodic checkups can help control the thyroid and prevent it from taking serious forms.

Diabetes: Are you at the risk!

Modern lifestyle has given rise to many diseases. In ancient times people used to eat healthy, breathe clean air and most importantly they involved themselves in many physical activities. But nowadays we are constantly working in front of computers. Instead of eating healthy home-made food, people prefer to eat unhealthy rust foods outside. Instead of practicing their time in parks or doing yoga, most people prefer to spend their time in Dominos, McDonalds, Cafes and Dining Restaurants etc. Physical activities, stress and lack of good food have given rise to many diseases, among them diabetes has become a common health problem which is making millions of people all over the world. 

Diabetes is a lifelong disease and taking chemical process pills or taking medicines for the whole life has serious effects on the body. Here we are telling you about those herbs which can help in regulating your glucose and controlling blood sugar level in diabetes.

Now, the question that comes naturally to your mind is how to identify diabetes. So you do not have to worry about it because after reading this article you will get answers to all the questions related to diabetes symptoms and ayurvedic treatments. 

What is Diabetes?

When the amount of glucose in the blood is high and it starts passing urine, it is called diabetes. In other words, when the amount of blood glucose or blood sugar in a person exceeds, it is called diabetes.

Early sign & symptoms of Diabetes

There are following some major symptoms which should not ignore at early stage of Diabetes:

Also read: Weight Loss vs Fat Loss

1. Excessive thirst- The major symptom of diabetes is excessive thirst. Usually, we drink water when we are thirsty, which erases our thirst, but it is not so in the case of diabetes, but a person feels very thirsty and has to drink water again and again when he has diabetes.
2. Frequent urination- Due to frequent drinking of water in diabetes, a person has to go for frequent urination. Usually, people consider it as a kidney symptom, but they should not reach any decision as it can also be a sign of diabetes.
3. Excessive hunger- often, you must have seen people who keep eating once in a while. Most make fun of such people and tease them by calling them 'hungry'. But at times, it can be a sign of diabetes, it may prove better to report it to the doctor for the person suffering from it.
4. Sudden weight loss- If a person is losing weight fast enough, then he should not ignore this problem as it can be a symptom of diabetes.
5. Fatigue- However, we all get tired after working long enough. It is a natural thing to happen, but when a person gets tired after a little hard work, it is not common because it can be a symptom of diabetes.
6. Blurry vision- Diabetes causes many body parts effects, most of which affect the eyes. The fluctuations in the blood sugar disrupt the blood vessels which supply blood to the eyes. Due to this, the image and color start to appear blurred and due to this the retina also swells.

Ayurvedic Treatment of Diabetes 

Bitter Gourd

Drinking bitter gourd juice every morning on an empty stomach helps to reduce the level of sugar and relieves the frequent urination. It has an active ingredient called Charalant which helps in lowering blood sugar levels. 

How to consume

Make a powder out of its seeds and consume it daily in the morning. 

Triphala

Triphala is one of the most widely available herbs in Ayurveda to treat diseases. As its name suggests, Triphala is a combination of 3 fruits. All these three fruits are powerful herbs and Triphala combines the valuable medicinal properties of these three. It helps in pancreatic function and promotes insulin levels.

How to use consume

You can consume a spoonful of powder with warm water or consult a specialist doctor before taking it to avoid major changes in blood sugar levels.

Vijaysar Powder 

The bark of the Vijayasara tree is nothing less than a boon for diabetics. It not only helps in controlling blood sugar levels but is also effective in promoting insulin star and removing excess fat from the body. It maintains healthy lipid levels in the blood and prevents various problems associated with diabetes. Ayurvedic texts describe Vijayasara as an excellent herb for diabetes.

How to consume

You can take powder or powder of its bark with water.

Turmeric Powder

Turmeric is known for its powerful healing powers and is found exclusively in everyone's kitchen. It lowers blood sugar levels and also helps in solving the root causes of diabetes.

How to consume

For effective and quick results, you can take turmeric with amla. In addition, you must include 2 to 3 grams of turmeric in your diet.

Indian Blackberries (Jamun)

Jamun contain glycosides that help to restrict blood sugar levels. It acts as a powerful herb for diabetes and reduces the effect of diabetes by turning sugar into energy.

How to consume

Make a fine powder by grinding the berries seeds and take 3 grams of powder with buttermilk twice a day.

Gudmar

Gudmar means the elimination of sugar and is traditionally used in Ayurveda to treat diabetes. It increases insulin in the body and helps in lowering blood sugar levels. This slows down the process of absorbing fat and conversion of sugar. Also helps in the body's metabolic activities. Helps in maintaining balance of weight and also maintains correct levels of cholesterol in the blood.

How to consume

Chew a few leaves of Gudmar daily or make tea with 400mg of Gudmar powder.

Shilajit

Shilajit inhibits glucose in the blood effect and helps in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. That is why it is also called "diabetic eradication". It stimulates pancreatic functioning and stimulates insulin secretion and helps reduce dependence on external insulin intake. It also helps to relieve fatigue due to diabetes.

How to consume

You can use 100 mg Shilajit powder daily.

Azadirachta Indica (Neem)

Neem leaves are full of medicinal properties and are also easily available. Neem balances Kapha dosha and reduces insulin dependence. According to Vedic and traditional health related texts, it is very effective in improving diabetes. This not only reduces the sugar levels in the body but also helps in normalizing the blood flow.

How to consume

To prevent atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications, you can chew four to five leaves of neem or consume neem juice. It can also help you reduce your dependence on insulin intake.

Also read: Benefits Of Neem Oil For Skin Treats Dry Skin

Bael Patra

According to Ayurveda, due to the countless benefits of Bael Patra, it is used as a medicine for diabetes. Bael prevents many diseases, one of them being "diabetes".

How to consume

If you are worried about your high blood sugar level, quickly grind a few leaves of bael, extract them and add black pepper and a pinch of salt to about 20 ml of juice. Take it to reduce high blood sugar level in your blood.

Black Paper

Black pepper is considered beneficial for type 2 diabetes. With the help of black pepper, blood sugar levels can be prevented from increasing. It is considered as a major antioxidant which helps in reducing the serous levels in diabetes patients.

How to consume

Take 5 black peppers and 5 basil leaves together and eat on an empty stomach in the morning.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek seeds contain trigonelline and alkaloids which are helpful in lowering blood sugar levels. They also slow down the process of digestion and absorption of carbohydrates.

How to consume

Grind the seeds of fenugreek and make it powder; Take one spoon of powder daily in the morning. You can also drink tea made from it. If you are a pregnant woman or you have given birth to a child or if you are trying to conceive then avoid using it. It is safe to use for others, but they should not be consumed for more than 6 months.

We hope that by reading this article, people will have got the necessary information about diabetes home treatments and they will have got answers to the questions related to it.

Dr. Gola BAMS, B.PT 12 Years Experience

Contact No.- 8791418545

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Vitamin D Deficiency: Are you getting enough Vitamin D! 

Vitamin D is essential for bones. Its main source is the sun's rays. If there is too much vitamin D deficiency in the body, then it is called vitamin D deficiency. It is very essential for the body. Vitamin D is essential for absorption of calcium, health of bones, help in growth of cells and reducing inflammation etc. When exposed to sunlight, your body automatically produces vitamin D from your own cholesterol. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. It helps the body to digest calcium and absorb.

Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency 

Just by taking a healthy and balanced diet, vitamin D levels cannot always be kept balanced in the body. Even if you eat vitamin D-rich foods, you are at risk of vitamin D deficiency because vitamin D cannot be replenished in the body only through diet. If your lifestyle and routine is such that you cannot get sunlight, then you may feel the following symptoms:-

1. Stay sad: Being depressed or feeling irritable are signs of vitamin D deficiency.
2. Gain weight: If you are suddenly getting fat or you gain weight, then it means that there is a deficiency of Vitamin D in your body. The special thing is that vitamin D is required more in overweight people than underweight people.
3. Recurrent infection: You should know that Vitamin D strengthens your immunity. When your immunity is strong, then it helps you to fight against bacteria and viruses.
4. Feeling tired: Although there can be many reasons for feeling tired, but due to lack of vitamin, there is also fatigue.
5. Non healing wounds: The delay in the healing and wound healing after injury is also a sign that there is a deficiency of vitamin D in the body.
6. Bone loss: Vitamin D is very important for the absorption of calcium. If the density of bones in your body is decreasing it means that there is a deficiency of calcium in your body. Due to lack of calcium, the risk of factor increases.
7. Digestive problems: Vitamin D is a type of fat soluble vitamin. Any type of digestive disease affects the absorption of fat, which also lowers the level of vitamin D.
8. Bones and joints pain: Vitamin D deficiency affects the health of bones as well as bone pain due to lack of vitamin D. This pain is felt more on the knees and back. Apart from this, the risk of osteoporosis (a type of bone disease), bone pain and easy to get factored in due to lack of vitamin D increases significantly.
9. Head sweating: Often, the head sweats due to lack of vitamin D. This symptom is common especially in the newborn. Head sweating is one of the earliest symptoms of vitamin D deficiency.
10. Hair fall: Hair loss is often associated with stress, however, along with it, vitamin D deficiency is also a common cause.

Causes & Risk factors of vitamin D deficiency

Your body mainly supplies vitamin D through diet and sunlight. Vitamin D deficiency in your body can be due to various reasons:-

1. Not getting enough vitamin D through diet.
2. Not being able to absorb enough vitamin D from the diet.
3. Take in sufficient amount of sunlight.
4. Not being able to convert vitamin D into active form by liver and kidney.
5. Changes and absorption of vitamin D are affected by the intake of medicines taken for the improvement of other diseases.

1. You may have to undergo vitamin D test if there is a possibility of vitamin D deficiency.
2. Vitamin D test is a type of blood test through which the vitamin D star is detected in your blood. This test is done when you are at risk of osteoporosis.
3. The best time to get vitamin D test is at the end of winter or in the beginning of spring because the level of vitamin D in your body is very low in both these seasons.
4. 20ng/mL to 50ng/mL is considered sufficient for healthy individuals but a level of less than 12 ng/mL indicates lack of vitamin D in the body.

Prevention of vitamin D deficiency 

Vitamin D rich foods

Vitamin D deficiency treatment

1. Taking more and more milk.
2. Eat vitamin D rich foods.
3. Eat vitamin D supplements.
4. Get vitamin D injections done.
5. Take vitamin D in tablets or liquid form.

Also read: Silent Heart Attack (SMI)

Vitamin D deficiency disease

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