Hyperthyroidism and its Homeopathic Treatment:
Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones in the body is called as hyperthyroidism (hyper=more).
The thyroid is small gland situated in the midline and base of the neck. The gland produces thyroid hormones T4 (Tetraiodothyronine/Thyroxine) and T3 (Triiodothyronine) that are absolutely essential for maintaining the harmony of various body functions. Thyroid hormones govern the speed of body's chemical reaction and have a positive influence on the growth of an individual (mental and physical). Because thyroid hormones affect growth, development and many cellular processes, an excess of thyroid hormones has widespread consequences on the body.
Causes
There are many causes that can cause overactivity of the thyroid gland and in most cases, the entire gland is producing more hormones, this is seen in Grave's disease. Grave's disease is actually an auto-immune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly starts attacking its own cells (in this case the thyroid gland) resulting in inflammation and enlargement of the gland (Goiter) and production of excess hormones. In some cases, there is a particular solitary nodule in the gland (called 'Hot' nodule) that is producing more hormones; there may also be multiple such nodules in the gland Inflammation of the thyroid gland (Thyroiditis) due to any other cause can also result in hyperthyroidism.
Symptoms
Increased secretion of thyroid hormones can produce myriad of symptoms that vary from person to person and with the age of the patient. The common symptoms include:
- Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
- Palpitations
- Heat intolerance
- Nervousness
- Insomnia
- Difficulty in breathing
- Increased bowel movements
- Light or absent menstrual periods
- Fatigue
- Tremors of hands and fingers
- Irritability
- Excessive perspiration
Signs are commonly seen in patients with Hyperthyroidism:
- Fast heart rate
- Muscle weakness
- Trembling hands
- Weight loss
- Hair loss
- Staring gaze
- Warm moist skin
- Lump in the neck (Goiter)
Remarks:
Hyperthyroidism being a constitutional disorder calls for an in-depth constitutional approach for its management. The science of homeopathy is based on the concept that disease is a total affliction of body and may find its local expression at the level of certain organs. Hence homeopathy prescription takes into account presenting complaints along with physical, emotional and genetic makeup of a person that individualizes him/her. The remedy prescribed based on this entire totality treats the disorder at its root cause and thus restores the normal functioning of the body.
Suggestion about homeopathic treatment:
Homeopathy is suggested for cases of hyperthyroidism. Homeopathy helps in alleviating the symptoms associated with the condition. Moreover, homeopathy works at a deeper level to bring deviations of immunity back to normalcy and to restore the harmony of the body. Homeopathy works better in the early and mild cases of Hyperthyroidism and not in chronic and severe cases. Extreme cases where the hyperactivity of thyroid gland has affected other vital organs, homeopathy has a limited role.
Related condition: Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
Written & Approved by-
Dr. Rajesh Shah
M.D. (Hom.)