What is Hypothyroidism?
The butterfly-shaped thyroid gland, located in the front of the neck, is a vital part of your body, primarily responsible for regulating metabolism, controlling body temperature, influencing growth, and supporting other essential functions. It produces two important hormones known as T3 and T4 that enable the thyroid gland to manage the multiple functions of the body. When T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine) hormones are not produced in sufficient amounts, then it leads to a condition known as hypothyroidism disease.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism Disease
The symptoms of hypothyroidism disease may vary from person to person, based on the individual’s health condition. Abnormal weight gain is one of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism, but don’t assume; it’s always better to believe after a confirmed diagnosis. Doctors advise a blood test for Hypothyroidism to check the thyroid hormone levels (T3, T4, and TSH).
Some of the most common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Men and Women:
- Fatigue
- Weight Gain
- Cold Sensitivity
- Dry Skin and Hair
- Constipation – Difficulty with bowel movements or feeling constipated.
- Depression or Mood Changes
- Memory Problems / Brain Fog
- Muscle Weakness and Cramps
- Slow Heart Rate
- Goiter (Enlarged Thyroid)
Specific Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Women:
- Heavy or Irregular Menstrual Periods – Longer, heavier, or more frequent periods, or irregular menstrual cycles
- Infertility – Difficulty in conceiving due to hormonal imbalances
- Pregnancy Complications – Increased risk of complications like pre-eclampsia, low birth weight, and premature birth.
- Thinning Eyebrows – Hair loss in the outer parts of the eyebrows.
Specific Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Men:
- Decreased Libido – Low or reduced interest in sexual activity.
- Erectile Dysfunction – Difficulty in achieving or maintaining erection.
- Reduced Muscle Mass – Loss of muscle tone or strength, and difficulty building muscle despite regular exercise and diet.
- Infertility – Reduced sperm count and quality.
Causes of Hypothyroidism Disease
The cause of hypothyroidism relates to a dysfunction in the thyroid gland or an issue with the pituitary gland which is responsible for regulating the thyroid through the thyroid-stimulating hormone, or TSH.
The causes of hypothyroidism in men and women are generally the same, but some may be more common in one or the other. Here’s a list of some of the main causes of hypothyroidism disease:
The causes of hypothyroidism in men and women are generally the same, but some may be more common in one or the other. Here’s a list of some of the main causes of hypothyroidism disease:
Hashimoto’s Disease (Autoimmune Thyroiditis)
It is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack and damage the thyroid gland, reducing its ability to produce thyroid hormones (T3 and T4).
Iodine Deficiency
Iodine is essential to produce thyroid hormones, and its deficiency in the diet causes hypothyroidism disease.
If the thyroid gland is surgically removed (often due to thyroid cancer or a goitre), the thyroid may no longer be able to produce enough hormones, which causes hypothyroidism disease.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation treatment for cancers of the neck or head (like throat or neck cancer) can damage the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism disease.
Pituitary Gland Dysfunction (Secondary Hypothyroidism)
The pituitary gland produces thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and if it is damaged or not functioning properly due to a tumor, injury, or disease, it may not release enough TSH, leading to hypothyroidism.
Pregnancy (Postpartum Thyroiditis)
Some women may develop postpartum thyroiditis condition after pregnancy. It’s an autoimmune condition when there is an excess production of hormones, causing hyperthyroidism disease.
Congenital Hypothyroidism
Some babies are born with a defective or underdeveloped thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism.
Ayurvedic Treatment of Hypothyroidism
In Ayurveda, hypothyroidism disease is mainly perceived as a disbalance in the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), mainly the imbalance of the Kapha dosha, which governs body structure and balances body fluid.
Panchakarma Therapy for Hypothyroidism
Panchakarma is a natural Ayurvedic treatment used to help manage hypothyroidism by detoxifying the body and restoring balance. It includes simple therapies like Abhyanga (oil massage) to improve blood flow, Swedana (steam therapy) to release toxins and boost metabolism, and Virechana (cleansing) to remove waste. Basti (herbal enemas) helps balance digestion. These treatments work together to reduce the Kapha imbalance that slows metabolism, causes weight gain, and leads to tiredness. Panchakarma can help increase energy, support thyroid health, and restore balance in the body.
