Epidemic Levels of Patients with Hypothyroid Problems Reported

The thyroid gland plays an important part in overall health and well being. That being said, it is no surprise that the word "thyroid" comes from the Greek words "thyreos" and "eidos" that mean "in from the shield". And the thyroid is like a shield, in a way, and spreads across the front of the trachea.

Measuring only a tiny two inches wide, the butterfly-shaped thyroid gland nonetheless plays a major role in determining your overall health. So when Dr. Jackie Arnold, who practices naturopathic medicine in Great Falls, Montana, came to the realization that the number of people in her office with hypothyroidism is at an epidemic level, she naturally became concerned.

Possible Cause of Hypothyroidism

Dr. Arnold's speculation is that high number of hypothyroid patients in the Great Falls area could have to do with the heavy metals and toxins in the area. Dr. Arnold sates that the toxins in the area can affect the sensitive thyroid gland and she also theorizes that the use of birth control could also add to the high number of thyroid disorders in her area. Dr. Arnold commented that the thyroid is among some of the most sensitive glands in the body and that it can react negatively to being assaulted by estrogen.

Dr. Arnold has noted in her patient population many women who use birth control in younger years may see thyroid-related side effects later in their thirty or forties, even later. Thyroid disorders can cause infertility and problems with menstrual cycles according to Dr. Arnold. "It can also wreak havoc in menopause," Arnold said.

Life of a Hypothyroid Patient

Hypothyroid life can be difficult. A hypothyroid patient can feel sluggish, tired, and out of sorts with many aches and pains. No matter what diet is maintained, the hypothyroid patient can suffer from weight gain due to an underactive thyroid. For the lucky two-thirds of hypothyroid patients who are diagnosed and treated correctly, their hypothyroidism is treated and the patient can achieve complete recovery. Metabolism returns to a correct state of balance, symptoms gradually subside and the patient feels "normal" again.

For the unlucky one-third of hypothyroid patients, diagnosis is not so easy to make. The physicians are not sure what is wrong with the patient and usually conduct a battery of tests, none of which show any abnormalities. It is possible that the physician suspects a thyroid disorder, but the lab tests conducted are either inconclusive or are completely normal.

Whenever the thyroid gland stops functioning properly, a patient needs to take a thyroid hormone supplement. And in the case of hypothyroidism following a thyroidectomy, this is a definitive treatment for hypothyroidism. But in the case of a patient that has not had a thyroidectomy, the treatment may be more complex. In some cases, hypothyroidism can develop after pregnancy or menopause. Thyroid hormones are necessary for body functions and a qualified endocrinologist should be consulted if any type of thyroid disorder is suspected. A thyroid disorder can affect intellect, memory, emotions and many other important factors of a healthy life.

Consult a Thyroid Professional

No treatment strategy is without risk of complications and thyroid therapy is no exception. So if you or a loved one is suffering from a thyroid disorder, it is recommended that a qualified and experienced thyroid professional be consulted right away.