Your neck does not just connect your head to your body. It also houses a butterfly-shaped gland that is important for various bodily functions. Called the thyroid gland, it sits right below your Adam’s apple region. It secretes hormones into the bloodstream to regulate the body’s metabolism, temperature, and skin health.
Sometimes, the thyroid gland might not function as it is supposed to. A resulting health issue is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. It is a condition in which your body produces antibodies that attack your thyroid cells. This could lead to dry skin, weight gain and hair loss.
What is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
“Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder in which our body’s immune system attacks the thyroid cells, responsible for producing thyroid hormones. Because of the damage to the cells, there is a deficiency of thyroid hormones leading to symptoms of hypothyroidism,” explains Dr Ajay Yadav, consultant, Dr Ajay’s Homeopathy Clinic, Mumbai.
Symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Sensitivity to cold
- Dry skin
- Mood swings
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Hair loss and thinning of hair
According to the National Institute Of Health, during the initial course of the condition, the person may also exhibit symptoms of hyperthyroidism. This is what happens when the damaged thyroid cells trigger an excessive release of thyroid hormones in the blood.
A research published in the Journal of European Journal of Endocrinology suggests that Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is most common in females. It also shows the condition is often associated with other autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, connective tissue disorders, Sjogren’s syndrome in adults, and type 1 diabetes and celiac disease in children and adolescents.
Both adult and paediatric groups showed a similar occurrence of skin diseases, with vitiligo being the most common one. About 10 to 40 per cent of people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis also have gastric disorders which can affect the absorption of nutrients.
Given the spectrum of issues this condition could cause, it is vital to conduct a thorough individual evaluation. This way, those with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can receive customised management plan.
There are studies that suggest an interprofessional team to tackle the condition. One such study suggests combining endocrinologist, primary care provider, and a specialist in internal medicine.
There is no known cure to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, but it can be managed with alternative approaches like homeopathy and ayurveda. Such a holistic approach would not only look into a person’s physical symptoms but also address mental well-being concerns like stress (which could have triggered the condition in the first place).
Homeopathic approach to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
According to Dr Neha Bharadwajan, Homeopathic Consultant, Sneham Digital Clinic, Mumbai, there are many homeopathic medications that work for autoimmune disorders like hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. She says, “Those with the condition often experience varied symptoms. Therefore, homeopathy is certainly beneficial in providing customised medications tailored to each person’s unique requirements.”
The usual approach recommended for managing Hashimoto’s thyroiditis involves thyroid hormone replacement. It is important to note that one must not discontinue any existing medication. Homeopathic medications supplement allopathic management to manage the condition. A thorough discussion with both allopathy and homeopathy doctors ensures your management regimen aligns with your individual health goals and management requirements.
Additionally, family history might also need to be recorded. Dr Yadav explains, “If other family members have similar thyroid disorders or autoimmune disorders, then it raises the risk of developing the same condition in the person being evaluated.” He also adds that there is a need to assess the stage of the condition to plan the management. Even if the condition is in an advanced stage, we can help prevent any further progression with homeopathy, he says.
As Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is also known to affect the younger population, even children, it is imperative to educate the whole family about this condition. According to homeopaths, inculcating healthy lifestyle measures, food habits, and a positive attitude in young children can potentially minimise the risk of acquiring familial autoimmune conditions.
Tips from experts for prevention and management of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis:
- Visit a physician regularly to keep track of your thyroid levels.
- Take medications as prescribed and do not skip any.
- For some, consuming food with gluten could worsen the condition. Consult a dietician to evaluate your condition thoroughly and get a customised diet plan.
- Avoid foods with additives and preservatives as they can trigger inflammation and worsen the condition.
- Maintain a diary to note down foods that trigger your condition so that you can avoid them in the future.
- Stress is a major trigger for this condition. Reduce stress by engaging in activities like yoga, tai chi, meditation, and the like.
- Insufficient sleep can disrupt immune function. Try and get 7-8 hours of sound sleep.
- Regularly engage in a physical activity that can help keep your weight under ideal limit.
