Hyperthyroid, Grave’s Disease and Thyrotoxicosis
Hyperthyroid and thyrotoxicosis are conditions where the metabolic state becomes hyperactive as a result of excessive thyroid hormone in the body. There are several potential causes for having an excessive thyroid hormone in the blood stream. Hyperthyroidism is defined by an excessive functional output of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. Inflammation of the thyroid gland, known as thyroiditis, can cause an increase in the release of thyroid hormone. Grave’s disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Grave’s is an autoimmune disease that attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to become overactive.
Symptoms of Graves Disease, Hyperthyroid & Thyrotoxicosis
- Insomnia
- Hand Tremor
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Weight Loss
- Sweating
- Fine Hair
- Rapid Heart Beat or Arrhythmia
- Loose Stool
- Muscle Wasting
- Increased Appetite
- Agitation
- Fine, Warm, and Moist Skin
- Menstrual Irregularity or Amenorrhea
Symptoms Unique to Grave's Disease
- Exophthalmos (bulging of eyes) and Eyelid Edema
- Pretibial Myxedema (swelling of the legs below the ankle)
- Goitre
- Decreased Visual Acuity
Autoimmune Disease and Overactive Thyroid
In Grave’s disease, Thyrotropin receptor antibody (TrAb), and thyroid stimulating antibodies (TSI) are produced, which can stimulate the thyroid gland to make more thyroid hormone. In addition to this, other antibodies commonly exist, including anti TPO and anti TG antibodies, which eventually result in the downregulation of the thyroid over time.
Treatments for Hyperthyroidism and Grave's Disease
There are some effective integrative medicine treatments for these conditions. Combinations of nutrients and herbs are prescribed to calm down the overactive thyroid gland, if hyperthyroidism exists. To effectively treat hyperthyroid states, very high potency herbal extracts must be used, which are typically not available over the counter and can be prescribed by our doctors. It is possible to use these treatments in hyperthyroidism early in the process to avoid the use of medications. If a patient has Grave’s disease as an underlying cause of hyperthyroidism, it is important to work with the autoimmune response, in addition to calming the thyroid. Working to rebuild normal immune function is a key part of the program in these cases.
Treatments are Aimed at:
- Binding of thyrotropin receptor / TSI antibody
- Regulating pituitary hormones
- Promoting normal hormone feedback loops
- Lowering Inflammation
- Looking for signs of leaky gut syndrome and addressing this to calm autoimmunity
- Calming the nervous system
Contact us to see if we may be able to help with your condition.