The thyroid is an endocrine gland located at the base of your throat. Its role is to rev up your body’s metabolism to give you the energy you need for all your cells to function properly. The thyroid is regulated by TSH, a hormone produced in the anterior pituitary gland, which causes it to either increase or decrease its production of T3 and T4, the two thyroid hormones which bind to cells to modulate metabolism.
When imbalanced, we can suffer from a hypothyroid (too little) state or a hyperthyroid (excessive) state. As the thyroid is an important gland, it works closely with other endocrine glands in the body, such as the adrenal glands and the ovaries, in order to ensure the body’s hormonal system is kept in homeostasis. If you’re experiencing some of the symptoms listed below, discuss with your natural health care provider possible testing and treatment.
Hypothyroid State
- Low basal body temperature
- Slow pulse (less than 60 beats/minute)
- Low blood pressure
- Slower speech
- Dry, scaly skin & eczema tendencies
- No perspiration
- Slow reflexes
- Puffy face, weight gain
- Constipation
- Frequent headaches
- Dry, brittle hair; falling out
- Fatigue and muscle weakness
- Anemia
- Depression, memory loss, poor concentration
- Feel cold all the time, hard to warm up
- High cholesterol and triglycerides
Hyperthyroid State
- High basal body temperature
- Fast pulse (greater than 80 beats/minute)
- High blood pressure
- Hyperactive state
- Racing thoughts
- Nervousness
- Increased perspiration
- Shakiness, tremor
- Weight loss, increased appetite
- Frequent bowel movements, diarrhea
- Swollen, red, bulging eyes
- High energy, insomnia
- Confusion
- Raised thickened skin over shins
- Feel warm most of the time
- Low stomach acid, mineral deficiencies
