Hypothyroidism is a common condition where the thyroid doesn’t create and release enough thyroid hormone into your bloodstream. This makes your metabolism slow down. The symptoms of hypothyroidism usually develop slowly over time – sometimes years. Some of them include include weight gain, memory loss, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
This condition can affect people of all ages, genders and ethnicities. It’s a common condition, particularly among women over age 60. Women are generally more likely to develop hypothyroidism after menopause than earlier in life. The main way to diagnose hypothyroidism is a blood test called the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test.
Hypothyroidism can become a serious and life-threatening medical condition if you do not get treatment from a healthcare provider. If you are not treated, your symptoms can become more severe.
Here are 7 tricks to help relieve the symptoms:
- For Cold Sensitivity: When your thyroid doesn’t produce enough regulating hormones, you end up feeling colder than general. To help with this, dress in layers. Assume that you’ll be feeling cold wherever you go. By dressing up in layers, you can add clothing if you get cold and shed pieces as you warm up. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and how cold you’ll be where you’re going.
- Prevent Dry Skin: The most common complain of people having hypothyroidism is Dry Skin. Moisturize! Moisturize! Moisturize! Applying moisturizers to dry skin several times a day to hold water in your skin and especially after you shower, bathe, or wash your hands. Experts also recommend choosing moisturizers that are alcohol-free and don’t contain harsh chemicals.
- Manage the Weight Gain: An unexplainable weight gain, with no change in diet and exercise, may occur rapidly. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help you manage your weight. Limit processed foods and those high in fat and sugar. Cheating occasionally is acceptable, but don’t do it much. Here’s a list of things you could avoid: Dairy, Grains, Nuts and Seeds, Chocolate, Sugar, Alcohol, Processed Foods, Beans. However, talk to your doctor or registered dietitian to find a meal plan that works for you.
- Hair Loss: Severe and prolonged hypothyroidism can lead to hair loss around the scalp. Regrowth is usual with successful treatment of the thyroid disorder, though it will take several months and may be incomplete. Avoid using hair straighteners or braiding as this puts traction on already frail hair. Use wide-tooth brushes or combs. Be wary of home-use products, and use recommended professional products for dye, highlights and conditioning.
- Fighting Fatigue: Fatigue may be the case after experiencing continual chronic sleepiness, headaches, or dizziness. Power naps are the secret to fighting fatigue. These naps would make a huge difference in how much energy you have at the end of the day. Take naps for 20-30 minutes and try not falling into deep sleep and nap in the mid-afternoon so you won’t have trouble falling asleep at night.
- The Constipation: Low thyroid production in hypothyroidism can often cause constipation over a period of time. Fibre is the answer. Good sources of dietary fiber include whole-grain cereals, wild rice, barley, oats, whole-wheat pasta, and fruits and vegetables such as carrots, tomatoes, celery, and berries. However, consult with your dietician or your doctor. Too much fiber intake may affect your body’s ability to absorb your thyroid medication.
- Combat Depression: Although hypothyroidism and depression are different diseases, they are connected in many people’s lives. Both are treatable and a proper diagnosis is a major first step toward feeling more like yourself. Focus on appreciation and generate good feelings in a consistent and deliberate way. To stay present and focused on only the good stuff will help you feel better and less stressed.
Apart from all this, it’s important to take your medication properly. When you take your thyroid medication can make a big difference. Wait at least 30 minutes to an hour to eat after taking your medication. To stay on track, keep reminders on your phone and watch that clock. There are plenty of ways to naturally treat hypothyroidism that include reducing daily stress, eating healthy and getting enough sleep.
Your doctor will have a better understanding of your concerns and needs, and can take all the information into consideration in formulating a thyroid management plan in discussion with you.