How can Myo-inositol help your Thyroid?

Posted on by Thyroid Information

Myo-inositol, known to some as Vitamin B8, is a type of sugar used as cure for many disorders. From diabetes to schizophrenia, myo-inositol can provide relief for a myriad of diseases. Outside its common indications, myo-inositol is said to be effective in curing thyroid disorders as well. If you are suffering from any of these maladies, then make sure to read on to know more about Myo-inositol and how it can boost your thyroid health.

What is Myo-inositol?

Myo-inositol is obtained from inositol, a pseudo-vitamin naturally occurring in food products such as beans, nuts, grains, and fruits. The myo-inositol content of the said produce is roughly 1 gram per serving.

While humans are capable of producing myo-inositol through carbohydrates, further studies suggest that Myo-inositol supplementation can help cure a variety of diseases.

Indications

Myo-inositol is indicated for a number of conditions, such as:

  • Metabolic Disorders
    • Diabetes and Diabetes-related nerve problems
    • Gestational Diabetes (GDM.) Intake of myo-inositol together with folic acid has been known to decrease the incidence of GDM from 92% to 60% in at-risk individuals.
    • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which is characterized by a failure to ovulate. It also comes with high blood pressure, testosterone and triglyceride levels. Myo-inositol is able to address PCOS, as well as other diabetic and metabolic disorders, by helping insulin to work better. At the same time, it is believed that it can balance certain chemicals in the body, thereby addressing the symptoms associated with the aforementioned mental health disorders.
    • Post-menopausal women diagnosed with Metabolic Syndrome. Intake of myo-inositol alongside alpha-lipoic acid is said to lower cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood pressure levels. It is also said to enhance the body’s insulin resistance.
  • Mental Health Disorders

The study of Shimon et al shows that people suffering from depression, compulsive disorder, and anxiety usually have lower inositol levels. Myo-inositol is able to affect the levels of dopamine and serotonin, both of which play big roles in regulating mood. As such, myo-inositol supplementation can help relieve the symptoms of the following mental health disorders:   

  • Depression
    • Alzheimer’s Disease
    • Autism
    • Schizophrenia
    • Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
    • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Panic Disorder
    • Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
    • Anxiety Disorder
    • Trichotillomania (Compulsive Hair Pulling)
  • Hypertension
  • High triglyceride levels
  • Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in neonates. Apart from improving breathing, myo-inositol is said to reduce several risks, such as brain hemorrhage, blindness, even death.
  • Infertility in Men
  • Erectile Dysfunction

Apart from treating a bevy of conditions, Myo-inositol intake is known to prevent adverse medical conditions, such as the following, from occurring:

  • Cancer. Many studies have seen the benefits of Myo-inositol in preventing multiple forms of cancer. One is lung cancer, where a reduction in pre-cancerous lung markers were seen in 21 heavy smokers who were supplemented with Myo-inositol. Liver cancer too, was prevented, in a study of mice supplemented with Myo-inositol and carotenoids.
  • Heart Disease. People with metabolic syndrome, who can be cured with Myo-inositol, are at risk of developing heart disease. Consequently, supplementation of Myo-inositol has been deemed effective in reducing the risk of heart disease in the said population.
  • Neural Tube Defect (NTD) complication in pregnancy. NTDs such as spina bifida and anencephaly are brought about by many factors, including adequacy of maternal nutrition. While folic acid is known to prevent spinal NTDs, only Myo-inositol and other inositols are effective in preventing both cranial and spinal NTDs.
  • Side effect Psoriasis in Lithium users.  Psoriasis is a side effect of Lithium, which is prescribed to people with bipolar disorders. Improvements were seen in psoriatic patients taking Lithium, while no changes were observed in psoriatic patients not taking Lithium.

Dosage, Safety, and Side Effects

Myo-inositol is safe to take for adults, pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as children aged 5-12 years old. The dosages are as follows:

  • Gestational Diabetes. 2 grams of Myo-inositol with 200 mcg of folic acid twice a day.
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome. 4 grams of Myo-inositol and 400 mcg of folic acid for six months.
  • Pregnancy complications. 2 grams of Myo-inositol plus 200 mcg of folic acid twice a day during the first trimester of pregnancy.
  • Metabolic syndrome. 2 grams of Myo-inositol twice a day for one year.
  • Panic disorder. 12-18 grams of Myo-inositol per day.
  • Lithium-associated psoriasis. 6 grams Myo-inositol daily.
  • Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. 120-160 mg/kg of myo-inositol orally; 80-160 mg/kg of intravenous myo-inositol

Side effects of Myo-inositol include tiredness, stomach pain, nausea, dizziness, sleep problems, and headaches. This usually comes with an intake of 12 grams or more of Myo-inositol.

Myo-inositol is capable of lowering glucose levels, and as such, diabetics taking inositol should be wary of hypoglycemia symptoms, such as sweating, dizziness, shakiness, hunger, irritability, headache, and anxiety.

Myo-Inositol for Thyroid Health

As it has been stated above, supplementation with Myo-inositol brings a lot of benefits. Seemingly, its list of health miracles goes on, especially in the field of thyroid treatment.

Hashimoto’s Disease

Hashimoto’s Disease is an autoimmune dysfunction, meaning the body acts upon its own cells, tissues, and systems. In this case, the body attempts to destroy the thyroid gland. It can be caused by several factors, including hormones, genetics, excessive iodine intake, and radiation exposure. As a result, the body reverts to hypothyroidism, wherein there is an inability to produce the needed amount of thyroid hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, fertility problems, depression, joint and muscle pain, to name a few.

How Myo-inositol Works

The mechanism behind Myo-inositol’s wonderful feats is explained in the study of Fallahi et al, entitled “Myo-Inositol in Autoimmune Thyroiditis and Hypothyroidism.” The authors stated that Myo-inositol is a precursor for the phosophoinositide synthesis, thereby affecting many cellular activities. Myo-inositol affects the thyroid cells through Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) signaling, the dysregulation of which and other processes can result to autoimmunity – which is the case for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis.

Another proof of Myo-inositol’s beneficial effects is seen in the study of Ferrari and her colleagues. Their study was able to show that Myo-inositol supplementation, alongside Selenium, is able to protect the thyroid cells. The research featured primary thyrocytes (thyroid cells) from euthyroid patients and individuals suffering from Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Samples from both groups were tainted with hydrogen peroxide. Apart from confirming the fact that hydrogen peroxide has a toxic effect to the thyrocytes, results showed that Myo-inositol and Selenium supplementation were effective in decreasing the release of substances that lead to autoimmune thyroiditis. With the said results, it was concluded that Myo-inositol is truly effective in protecting thyroid cells from harmful substances.

The Proof in Studies

Although autoimmune diseases are deemed incurable, the study of Norcio and Basciani, which was printed in the International Journal of Endocrinology, in 2017, disproves that. It showed that Myo-inositol can also treat patients with Hashimoto’s disease who present as sub-clinically hypothyroid. It featured 86 patients with the following parameters:

  • TSH levels between 3 to 6 mIU/L
  • Elevated Serum Antithyroid Peroxidase (TPOAb) and/or Antithyroglobulin (TgAB) levels
  • Normal Free Thyroxine and Free Triiodothyronine levels

The following participants were given 600 milligrams of Myo-inositol together with 85 micrograms of Selenium orally for 6 months. After the study, participants exhibited a decrease in TSH levels, from an average of 4.32 to 3.12. TgAB levels decreased from an average of 344.96 to 288.84 while TPOAb dropped to 620.38 from 720.67. With that being said, the authors generalized that apart from helping restore the patient’s euthyroid state, Myo-inositol and Selenium supplementation can help improve the person’s well-being as well.

Apart from treating hypothyroid patients with Hashimoto’s disease, Myo-inositol is also capable of curbing the development of overt hypothyroidism in euthyroid individuals diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease. The study conducted by Ferrari et al yet again featured 21 Caucasian patients, who were twice daily supplemented with Myo-inositol and Selenium at dosages of 600 milligrams and 83 milligrams respectively.

After a course of 6 months, the participants were evaluated and lab results showed that high TSH values and antithyroid auto-antibodies declined, thereby foretelling Myo-inositol’s ability to reduce the risk of hypothyroid progression in Hashimoto patients. As a bonus, CXCL10 levels lowered as well, which led the researchers to conclude that Myo-inositol and Selenium supplementation is able to modulate thyroid immunity too. 

Although both studies advocate Myo-inositol treatment for as long as 6 months, the study by Briguglia shows that antibody and hormone titers decline even after just 3 months of treatment. However, to ensure that the full effects of Myo-inositol are maximized, experts advise patients to continue with a full 6-month regimen.

Why Selenium?

As it has been seen in many of the aforementioned studies, Selenium is the supplement of choice that comes with Myo-inositol therapy – and it comes so with many valid reasons. For one, the thyroid gland has a high concentration of selenium bound to selenoproteins. It is incorporated in iodothyronine deiodinases, which is essential for the metabolism of thyroid hormones. Selenium is also known to have an anti-oxidative feature, as it helps remove free radicals generated during thyroid hormone production.

In fact, low selenium levels were known to increase one’s risk of developing an enlarged thyroid gland and thyroid nodules as well. These were seen in a Chinese study that compared low-selenium and adequate-selenium (through diet) counties. Those who belonged to low-selenium counties exhibited higher prevalence of thyroid diseases, such as subclinical hypothyroidism, hypothyroidism, and autoimmune thyroiditis, to name a few.

Given its many benefits, Selenium has been the supplement of choice, especially in treating Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. Numerous studies have shown that intake of Selenium is vital in decreasing the levels of TPOAb and TgAB, some even reaching normal levels.

Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid nodules refer to a lump of abnormal thyroid cells. It is a common condition that as much as 76% of people screened for thyroid disorders – especially females and the aged population – manifest with thyroid nodules. Although most are asymptomatic and benign, 7-15% of people with thyroid nodules end up with thyroid cancer – a condition which can be exacerbated with family history, sex, advanced age, and radiation exposure.

To determine if Myo-inositol was effective in decreasing the size of thyroid nodules, Nordio and Bascani explored its effects via ultrasound. A total of 34 patients were recruited, and those who supplemented with Myo-inositol and Selenium showed a reduction in the size, number, and elasticity of their thyroid nodules. As expected, their TSH levels decreased as well. Although the study was small in size, the data yielded was enough to warrant one of Myo-inositol’s many benefits on thyroid health.

The Bottomline

Given the many scientific evidences mentioned above, it is without a doubt that Myo-inositol can help cure thyroid disorders. Although it comes with minimal risks and side effects, Myo-inositol can interact with drugs that you are currently taking for your thyroid problem. With that being said, it is best to consult with your doctor prior to starting this regimen.

References:

Briguglia, G. (2018). Time-dependent efficacy of myo-inositol plus selenium in subclinical hypothyroidism. International Journal of Medical Device and Adjuvant Treatments,1(1). Retrieved December 13, 2018, from https://www.ijmdat.com/article/108.

Fallahi, P., Ferrari, S. M., Elia, G., Ragusa, F., Paparo, S. R., Caruso, C., . . . Antonnelli, A. (2018). Myo-inositol in autoimmune thyroiditis, and hypothyroidism. Reviews in Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders,1-6. Retrieved December 13, 2018, from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11154-018-9477-9.

Ferrari, S. M., Elia, G., Ragusa, F., Paparo, S. R., Caruso, C., Benvenga, S., . . . Antonnelli, A. (2018). The protective effect of myo-inositol on human thyrocytes [Abstract]. Reviews in Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders. Retrieved December 13, 2018, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30511181.

Ferrari, S. M., Fallahi, P., Di Bari, F., Vita, R., & Antonnelli, A. (2017). Myo-inositol and selenium reduce the risk of developing overt hypothyroidism in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences,21(2), 36-42. Retrieved December 13, 2018, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28724175.

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments. (n.d.). Retrieved December 13, 2018, from https://www.webmd.com/women/hashimotos-thyroiditis-symptoms-causes-treatments#1

Inositol: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning. (n.d.). Retrieved November 12, 2018, from https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-299/inositol

Meixner, M. (2018, August 15). Inositol: Benefits, Side Effects and Dosage. Retrieved November 12, 2018, from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/inositol

Nordio, M., & Basciani, S. (2017). Treatment with Myo-Inositol and Selenium Ensures Euthyroidism in Patients with Autoimmune Thyroiditis. International journal of endocrinology, 2017, 2549491.

Nordio, M., & Basciani, S. (2018). Evaluation of thyroid nodule characteristics in subclinical hypothyroid patients under a myo-inositol plus selenium treatment. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences,22, 2153-2159. Retrieved December 13, 2018, from https://www.europeanreview.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2153-2159.pdf.

 Shimon, H., Agam, G., Belmaker, R. H., Hyde, T. M., & Kleinman, J. E. (1997). Reduced frontal cortex inositol levels in postmortem brain of suicide victims and patients with bipolar disorder. American Journal of Psychiatry,154(8), 1148-1150. doi:10.1176/ajp.154.8.1148

Ventura, M., Melo, M., & Carrilho, F. (2017). Selenium and Thyroid Disease: From Pathophysiology to Treatment. International journal of endocrinology, 2017, 1297658.

Thyroid and Calcium

Posted on by Thyroid Information

There is a direct relationship between our thyroid and calcium. Specifically, the parathyroid gland is regarded as the “calcium-regulating” gland which is important in keeping our bones strong and healthy.

Have you ever wondered why there are some people who remain skinny even if they eat a lot of food? What is the role of calcium in the development of osteoporosis and thyroid problems?

Get to Know More About the Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland is a two-lobed organ located in front of the neck, just beneath the Adam’s apple. It secretes three types of hormones which are the thyroxine or T4, triiodothyronine or T3, and calcitonin. These hormones are important in the promotion of normal calcium levels in the blood.

The first two are responsible for the body’s metabolism. Iodine found in our diet is very important in the production of thyroid hormones.

You might have heard people saying that they have either a “fast” or “slow” metabolism, which is actually the rate of how the body uses the stored energy. Thyroid hormones enable the cells to consume more energy and they are important in protein production as well as glucose and fat consumption.

Calcitonin plays an important role in the regulation of calcium and phosphorus in our bodies, that’s why thyroid and calcium work together. It is released into the bloodstream by the thyroid gland if there is a high level of calcium in the blood. It decreases the calcium and phosphorus blood level and increases their absorption in the bone.

Get to Know More About the Parathyroid Glands

The parathyroid glands are found in the lower neck region behind the thyroid. They are four small glands that are the shape and size of a grain of rice. The parathyroid is responsible for secreting the parathyroid hormone which is used in regulating the blood calcium levels.

What is the role of parathyroid hormone? It is very powerful because it influences our bones to release more calcium into the blood. It regulates the calcium that is absorbed from the food we eat. It determines the amount of calcium that should be excreted via our kidneys.

The parathyroid hormone also dictates the amount of calcium stored in our bones. Moreover, it increases the active Vitamin D formation, thus increasing intestinal phosphorus and calcium absorption.

How Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands Work With Calcium

The release of parathyroid hormone is triggered when the blood calcium level is low. If the serum calcium is high, the parathyroid hormone release is suppressed. Calcitonin and parathyroid hormones work together to regulate blood calcium levels.

When will these hormones be released? The calcium level in the blood is the primary stimulus for the parathyroid hormone and calcitonin to be released. When the blood calcium serum level is high, the thyroid gland secretes calcitonin, slowing down the activity of osteoclasts in the bone.

If the blood calcium level is low, it stimulates the parathyroid glands to secrete parathyroid hormone, encouraging the normal and natural process of bone breakdown.

This is crucial for the growth and maintenance of bones. Thyroid and calcium levels work together with the hormones to achieve normal blood calcium levels.

The parathyroid and calcium work together. Calcitonin and parathyroid hormones have opposing actions, and these regulate the calcium levels in the blood. This is why disorders of the parathyroid hormone such as parathyroid adenoma (tumor of the parathyroid glands) may result in hypercalcemia (increased blood calcium levels).

What Studies and Research Show

Calcium and thyroid function work hand-in-hand. In 2005, the Department of Medicine of the University Hospital of North Norway reported a case about a young man who has extreme hypercalcemia associated with parathyroid adenoma. The young man manifested hypercalcaemic syndrome.

The patient underwent parathyroidectomy which quickly resolved the clinical symptoms. It prevented the occurrence of hypercalcaemic crisis, which is a life-threatening condition as a complication of primary hyperparathyroidism. It is manifested by muscle weakness, gastrointestinal problems, and cerebral symptoms.

Hypothyroidism and calcium levels have a direct correlation. How is this possible?

Thyroid and calcium play an important role together and having an imbalance in one affects the other.

According to the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, there are various studies showing that hypothyroid subjects who were given an acute dose of calcium retained elevated serum calcium levels for a longer period of time as compared to controlled subjects.

In the reported case of a woman having hypothyroidism and hypercalcemia, as published in the Southern Medical Journal, thyroid replacement therapy greatly improved the woman’s condition. However, in order to determine if the association of hypercalcemia and hypothyroidism is real, further research and studies should be carried out.

Conclusion

In the interplay of thyroid and calcium, as the parathyroid hormone function also plays a crucial part in achieving normal blood calcium levels.

They have a direct relationship in the maintenance of proper hormonal and cellular activity, primarily blood calcium regulation.

Thyroid and calcium play a crucial role in the promotion and maintenance of health.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/918707

http://ovidsp.tx.ovid.com/sp-3.28.0a/ovidweb.cgi?T=JS&PAGE=fulltext&D=ovft&AN=00007611-197711000-00041&NEWS=N&CSC=Y&CHANNEL=PubMed

http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2796.2005.01506.x

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15953136

Selenium and Its Role in Thyroid Function

Posted on by Thyroid Information

You may not realize it, but your thyroid gland plays a huge role in your overall health.  Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of neck, and it produces hormones that are responsible for maintaining most of your body’s natural processes.  These hormones are called triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4).  T3 and T4 are essential in order for your body’s metabolism to function efficiently, and also lend a hand in controlling your cholesterol levels, monitoring your breathing and heart rate, normalizing your body temperature, and more.  Without your thyroid, your entire endocrine system would fall apart.

There are a number of minerals that help keep your thyroid running smoothly, and one of the most important ones is selenium.  Keep reading to discover more about how selenium specifically aids thyroid function and why it is one of the dietary minerals we just can’t do without!

What Happens When Your Thyroid Isn’t Working Properly?

Thyroid conditions are much more common than most people realize; in the U.S. alone, over 20 million people are affected, with the vast majority being women.  Statistically, one man will be diagnosed with a thyroid condition for every 5-8 women who receive the same diagnosis.  Your body requires very precise levels of thyroid hormones, so anything that sets off that balance in going to cause a problem.  The most common form of thyroid dysfunctions are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism[i].

Hyperthyroidism is when your body produces too much T3 and T4.  Typical symptoms of hyperthyroidism include sensitivity to heat/ feeling too warm all the day, high levels of stress and anxiety, heart palpitations, thinning skin and hair, weakened muscles, insomnia, and menstrual irregularities.  The most common causes behind this condition are autoimmune disorders like Graves’ Disease, thyroiditis (usually a temporary inflammation caused by a viral infection), or nodules growing on the thyroid.  Occasionally, hyperthyroidism can also be caused by taking too much of a thyroid hormone in tablet form[ii].

Hypothyroidism is the opposite problem; this is when your body produces too little T3/T4 hormones.  People who are hypothyroid usually report feeling cold, insomnia, having difficulty losing weight, cognitive dysfunction (i.e. trouble remembering, etc.), chronic fatigue, and more.  Hypothyroidism can be caused by a genetic predisposition but may also be caused by external factors such as thyroid cancer, chemotherapy treatments, certain medications, and autoimmune disease.  Because the symptoms of both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are myriad, they can be difficult to identify.  But once you or your doctor suspect that your thyroid is the source of your health troubles, both conditions are easily diagnosed with a simple blood test[iii].

How Does Selenium Support the Thyroid?

Selenium is a mineral that is essential to our nutrition and can be found in many foods (or taken in tablet form as a dietary supplement).  Selenium is mostly stored in our skeletal muscles; it helps our bodies defend against cancer, boosts immunity and fertility, improves cardiovascular health, and also helps regulate our thyroid function[iv].

Multiple studies, like this one done at the Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra in Portugal in 2016[v], have confirmed selenium’s role in maintaining thyroid function.  Our thyroids actually contain more selenium by weight than any other organ in our body.  All of that selenium acts as a component of the enzyme that helps to remove iodine molecules from the hormone T4, which is biologically inactive in the body; this converts that hormone into T3, which is biologically active and can be used for the body’s various metabolic processes.  Without any selenium, we would not be capable of converting T4 into T3 on our own.  That can very swiftly lead to major health problems, including hypothyroidism or conditions like Hashimoto’s Disease[vi].

It is prudent to note that it is possible to consume too much selenium, so it is not advisable to seek out selenium dietary supplements until you first consult your doctor.  High levels of selenium (anything above 400 micrograms, or mcg, per day) can lead to symptoms such as irritability, bad breath, digestive upset, brittle hair/ nails, discolored teeth, and even occasionally nervous system problems.  Extremely high levels of selenium can produce more severe problems such as respiratory difficulty and kidney or heart failure.  However, the level of selenium required to be at risk for those outcomes is exceptionally high and would require an excessive consumption of the mineral over a period of some time[vii].

Ordinarily, we can consume adequate levels of selenium (around 55 mcg per day for adults) with a diet that has a good balance of natural proteins (seafood, meat/poultry, eggs, dairy, etc.) and grains.  People who suffer from Celiac Disease/ gluten intolerance, or who stick to a vegetarian or vegan diet, may require additional selenium supplements to replace these other natural sources of the mineral.

Whether you’re perfectly healthy or suffering from a condition like hyper- or hypothyroidism, it is essential to make sure that you are consistently getting good levels of selenium into your body so that your thyroid can keep doing its job.  Luckily, that is relatively easy most of the time, and is easily accomplished with a well-balanced diet.  If you have any concerns about your thyroid function or your ability to get enough selenium on a regular basis, consult your doctor right away.  And of course, never begin a supplement or medication regimen without talking to your doctor first.

[i] https://www.thyroid.org/media-main/about-hypothyroidism

[ii] https://www.thyroid.org/hyperthyroidism/

[iii] https://www.thyroid.org/hypothyroidism/

[iv] https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Selenium-HealthProfessional/

[v] https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ije/2017/1297658/

[vi] http://www.lifeextension.com/protocols/metabolic-health/thyroid-regulation/Page-08

[vii] https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Selenium-Consumer/

Hyperthyroidism and Acne: Finding the Right Cure For Acne

Posted on by Thyroid Information

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces a very low level of thyroid hormone. The thyroid hormone helps influence the growth, development, and metabolism of the body.

Deficiency in the hormone levels impacts different parts of the body adversely. This elicits various symptoms in the body, including weight gain, depression, dry or scaly skin, muscle cramps, brittle nails and hair, tiredness, and more.

Of the various changes that occur in hypothyroidism, the exacerbation of acne is a significant factor. While hypothyroidism is connected with various conditions, such as heart disease and lipid disorders; in this post, we will see about the adverse effects the condition has on the skin, particularly its role in acne formation.

Hypothyroidism Induced Skin Changes

Changes in the skin, including dryness and thickening of the skin in knees and elbow region, occur commonly. Hair loss and discoloration of soles and palms due to increased carotene accumulation are also seen in hypothyroidism.

In some cases, premenstrual acne is increased in intensity in female adults with hypothyroidism. A study published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology evaluated the relation of thyroid condition with the presence of acne in adults, especially women. The readings were compared with healthy individuals as controls.

The study result indicates that acne in adults can be related to thyroid autoimmunity and should be considered when screening the women who have post-adolescent acne.  Acne is one of the conditions that are very difficult to treat. This is due to the diverse range of causes that trigger it.

Acne and Its Treatment

Acne is often treated with over the counter medications including creams and lotions, which most often are not effective. This is especially true if the underlying cause of acne is not treated.

In fact, acne is a skin condition that is triggered by some functional disorder in the body and not due to the changes in the skin directly. Hence, the creams and lotions are not a good solution.

Hyperthyroidism and Acne

Hormonal imbalance has been cited as one of the significant causes of acne. Imbalance in androgen hormone is a common cause of acne in older women. Another less known but significant factor in acne production is the imbalance in thyroid hormone. Acne due to thyroid disturbances is more complicated to treat as the condition does not resolve easily.

To resolve an outbreak of acne, you need to first identify whether the hormonal imbalance is triggering the acne outbreak. When hormones are causing the condition you will not find relief with creams, gels, lotions, and other acne skin care brands available.

In case of imbalance in progesterone and estrogen levels, the acne breakouts occur near the hairline and jawline and the skin is very oily. Contraceptives are, thus, considered as a good treatment choice for such acne.

However, the hormonal condition may be caused by hypothyroidism. This is often overlooked leading to improper treatment of acne.  The Journal of European Medicine in a 2009 review has cited that nearly 5% of acne vulgaris and 3.6% of acne rosacea are skin findings associated with thyroid conditions.

The study reports that majority of symptoms found in thyroid conditions are related to the skin and include urticaria, alopecia, and vitiligo besides acne. Hence, treating thyroid hormone deficiency with contraceptives is not a solution to resolve acne. Moreover, hypothyroidism is related to several hormonal imbalances, which can lead to acne formation.

​Some of the causes of hypothyroidism include:

  • Low level of progesterone resulting in high estrogen dominance.
  • Affects the level of insulin, resulting in higher testosterone levels, which cause oily skin and acne.
  • Further, vitamin A formation from beta-carotenoids found in foods like pumpkins, carrots, etc. occurs due to hypothyroidism. This can result in rough and scaly skin that is prone to comedones, resulting in acne formation.

When acne is triggered by the above conditions, it can be treated properly by dealing with hypothyroidism, instead of using other treatment forms. Using thyroid hormone or improving the function of the thyroid gland naturally will help provide relief from the acne condition.

​How to Identify Thyroid Dependent Acne

Cystic acne is the typical acne form found in hypothyroidism and it shows a definite improvement in the thyroid hormone addition. Further, in general, the acne in hypothyroidism is not related to menstrual cycle. And, when it is associated with other hypothyroidism symptoms, including fatigue and brittle or dry hair and nails, it can be identified easily.

Other than directly being responsible for acne, hypothyroidism is also indirectly related to acne outbreaks. It causes disturbances in the digestive tract and hormonal levels leading to acne formation. In such cases, acne is seen all over the skin and not restricted to the face alone.

When you identify the root cause of the acne outbreak, you will be able to find a lasting solution to the terrible and frustrating acne issue. Other than wreaking havoc on your physical appearance, it can also affect you mentally. Low self-esteem and depression can occur with untreated acne. With hypothyroidism, balancing the thyroid hormone is an effective remedy for the skin lesions that accompany the condition. This includes healing the acne effectively.

How Effective Are the Common Thyroid Treatments – Synthroid, Cytomel, and Armour Thyroid

Posted on by Thyroid Information

Over 200 million individuals worldwide suffer from some type of thyroid condition. While thyroid conditions are treatable in a majority of cases, leaving them untreated can result in serious consequences to your health.

When you understand the disorders and treatment options, it helps you to cope better with the condition.

While there are different sets of symptoms related to hyper and hypothyroidism, all of them do not occur in a patient with the condition. Patients with thyroid conditions are frequently anxious or irritable due to the symptoms, which eventually subside with the right treatment.

Hypothyroidism is the most common condition, which is treated using different methods.

We will examine the efficacy of various thyroid treatment options in this post.

Various thyroid treatment options

The use of synthetic hormones, such as Synthroid or Levothyroxine, which have a high concentration of T4 hormone, is the staple treatment option in conventional treatment.

While the synthetic hormonal replacement helped to control the symptoms of hypothyroidism, they are often considered unnecessary in borderline thyroid conditions.

In a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2014, it has been indicated that the use of synthetic hormones resulted in suppressed levels of thyrotropin resulting in greater harm than benefit to the patients. The retrospective study included data related to the level of thyrotropin for a span of 5 years from the time of initiation of levothyroxine therapy in patients with hypothyroidism.

The study results show that synthetic hormones, like Synthroid, are indicated only when the hypothyroid symptoms are clear and indicate the presence of autoantibodies, and in individuals with heart failure or cardiovascular disease (atherosclerotic) evidence.

The continual use of the synthetic hormones can cause increased osteoporosis risk and also the risk of forming atrial fibrillation.

Using Natural Thyroid Extracts

Due to the obvious side effects of synthetic hormone use, the use of natural alternative, like Armour thyroid, came into practice. Armour Thyroid, which has both T3 and T4, is considered superior to the synthetic preparations, like Synthroid, as it is not associated with the risk factors like osteoporosis.

However, it comes with the risk of thyrotoxicosis in case of improper dosage of the extract in relation to serum TSH levels.

This is of particular concern in case of thyroid cancer condition where the extract is used.

However, when compared to Synthroid medications Armour thyroid showed better patient compliance in a study published in the JCEM (The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism) in 2013.

This is due to two main reasons. The symptoms of the condition were relieved better and also the patients lost weight during the treatment.

Thus, about half of the patients studied (about 48.6%) indicated a preference for Armour Thyroid over Synthroid medications.

The study indicates that although improvement of the condition was the same with the two medications, the above cited reasons resulted in the desiccated or Armour thyroid therapy being a more preferred choice.

Use of synthetic L T3

L T3 is available as Cytomel in the United States. It is used for the advantage it offers in bypassing the conversion of T4-T3 stage.

The use of Cytomel is also indicated in case of patients who do not find Armour thyroid effective.

But Cytomel cannot be used on its own as pure L-T3 does not allow the production of tissue and time-specific T3. You need to use T3 in combination with T4 to get the desired effect on symptoms. Multiple dosages are also required for sustaining the T3 levels in the body as it has a shorter duration of action when compared to the L T4 medications.

Further, Cytomel is not indicated in patients with conditions, such as congestive heart failure and other cardiopulmonary diseases of acute nature. This is because the low T3 levels slow down the metabolism, which is actually beneficial. But in case of hyperthyroid conditions without accompanying cardiac conditions, this is not an issue.

Recommended therapy choice

While the alternative choices are preferred by a section of the population, a comprehensive study recommends the use of levothyroxine preparation as the ideal choice. This is because of its efficient resolution of hypothyroidism symptoms, less number of side effects, easy and inexpensive dosage, and better absorption.

The American Thyroid Association study involved asking patients on the drug treatment 24 questions on the effect, response, and efficacy of Levothyroxine. The study concluded that the synthetic form is recommended as the standard for the treatment of hypothyroidism as the product had improved health benefits in the patients studied during the clinical review.

Final thoughts

When the various pros and cons of the different forms of treatment options available are reviewed, it is clear that no single form has a superior resolving capacity than the rest. Each format has a specific drawback that makes it unsuitable for common use.

However, Levothyroxine therapy has been used for a long time as the main treatment option and has shown good results until now. Further, with the study done by American Thyroid Association supporting the use of Levothyroxine over other alternative forms, it is clear that Synthroid and other similar Levothyroxine forms offer better relief and patient response. Armour thyroid may be considered if you exhibit specific undesirable side effects on using Levothyroxine therapy.

thyroid gland inside human body. 3d illustration

Iodine and Thyroid Disorders

Posted on by Thyroid Information

Iodine is one of the main elements your body needs to produce thyroid hormones.

Your body is unable to produce enough iodine to do this on its own which is why it is an imperative part of any diet.

Iodine can be consumed through many foods (see Table 1). If you do not have enough iodine in your body, then your body will not be able to make enough thyroid hormones.

As such, you can end up with iodine deficiencies.

These deficiencies can cause your thyroid to enlarge, or cause hypothyroidism and mental retardation in unborn babies whose mothers have iodine deficiencies while pregnant.

Prior to the 1920’s iodine deficiencies were common in communities throughout the Great Lakes region, the Appalachian region, the Northwest parts of the United States, and parts of Canada.

Treatment for this deficiency was introduced through iodized salt.

This has actually helped to eliminate most of the issue in areas like this. In the meantime though, other parts of the world have not yet adopted the same treatment.

Without iodized salt readily available in diets throughout these areas, iodine deficiencies continue to present public health issues.

In fact, 40% of the population around the world is at risk for such a deficiency.

Sources of Iodine

Iodine is found inside seawater and soil naturally. There are different levels of iodine in food around the world. In the United States, people can get adequate iodine levels in their diet if they just replace salt in their food with iodized salt.

Eating foods which are high in iodine, like seafood and dairy, or taking a multivitamin with iodine in it can help provide an adequate level of iodine.

Below is a table that shows you just a handful of the foods in the United States that give you iodine necessary to prevent such thyroid issues.

TABLE 1. COMMON SOURCES OF IODINE IN FOOD:

  • Cheese
  • Milk from cows
  • Eggs
  • Frozen Yogurt
  • Ice Cream
  • Iodine-containing multivitamins
  • Iodized table salt
  • Saltwater fish
  • Seaweed such as nori and kelp
  • Shellfish
  • Soy milk
  • Soy sauce
  • Yogurt

Symptoms of Iodine Deficiencies:

The symptoms one would experience for iodine deficiencies are all similar especially with regard to their effect:

Goiter:

If you do not have proper amounts of iodine, then your thyroid gets bigger and bigger, developing a goiter.

This happens when it attempts to keep up with your body’s demand for thyroid hormones. Around the world this deficiency is most common cause of enlarged thyroids.

Within the goiter, nodules sometimes develop. People who have a large goiter might have problems breathing, swallowing, or even choking when they are lying down.

Hypothyroidism:

When levels of iodine in the body fall, hypothyroidism can develop especially because iodine is imperative for the production of the thyroid hormone.

This is somewhat uncommon in the United States but around the world this iodine deficiency is actually quite prevalent (see Hypothyroidism brochure).

Pregnancy-Related Issues:

Iodine deficiencies are even more important in women who are currently pregnant or nursing, since they are essentially supplying this mineral to two people.

Severe deficiencies in pregnant women has been linked to congenital abnormalities in birthed babies as well as miscarriages, preterm deliveries, and stillbirths. Children whose mothers had severe deficiencies during pregnancy sometimes face issues of mental retardation, and additional issues with speech, hearing, and growth.

If this condition persists for some time, underactive thyroids can even result in cretinism, a medical condition, due to maternal hypothyroidism, that results in much slower mental and physical developments. This, again, is not a common issue in the United States, but is common in other parts of the world.

Congenital hypothyroidism, the result of a deficiency in pregnant woman is one of the more treatable causes of mental retardation across the globe. Even a mild deficiency in a pregnant woman can result in low intelligence in children, but can be prevented.

Causes of Iodine Deficiencies

The body is unable to produce the amount of iodine necessary for the production of thyroid hormones, as mentioned.

It is because of this that you have to help supplement the iodine levels in your body with iodine in things like vitamins or food.

Now, around the world there are different levels of availability for iodine in different foods.

As mentioned, the table above (table 1) includes a generic list of iodine foods in the United States, but more specific food lists vary based on country and what foods are available in that country.

People in the United States can maintain healthy levels of iodine in their body, enough to properly produce thyroid hormones, by simple restricting the salt they consume and replacing any consuming salt with iodized salt. It is also beneficial to consume foods high in iodine like meat, eggs, seafood, and some breads.

People can complement this by consuming multivitamins daily which contain iodine.

Note that the list in Table 1 is incomplete. Thyroid.org’s Iodine Deficiency Brochure has more information on this topic and a pretty good list of foods rich in Iodine.

Diagnosing Deficiencies

Iodine deficiencies can be diagnosed better across whole populations rather than in individual’s Iodine is released by your body by way of urine.

Therefore the best way to figure out iodine deficiencies in a large group of people is to measure the levels of iodine found in their urine samples.

Having an iodine deficiency is when you have an average concentration of iodine in the urine which is less than 50 μg/L in a population (see Table 2). Throughout the United States, the levels of iodine in the population has remained about the same for the same two decades.

Levels dropped by roughly half during the beginning the 1970’s and then through the 1990’s. In other parts of the world through, particularly Europe, Asia, and Africa still face this as a large issue.

Below is a table that shows the median population values for iodine and iodine nutrition.

TABLE 2. MEDIAN POPULATION URINARY VALUES
MEDIAN CONCENTRATION IODINE IN URINE (μg/L) IODINE INTAKE (μg/day) NUTRITION
<20 <30 SEVERE DEFICIENCY
20-49 30-74 MODERATE DEFICIENCY
50-99 75-149 MILD DEFICIENCY
100-199 150-299 OPTIMAL
200-299 300-449 MORE THAN ADEQUATE
>299 >449 POSSIBLE EXCESS
[From WHO, UNICEF and ICCIDD 2001 Assessment of the Iodine Deficiency Disorders and monitoring their elimination. A guide for programme managers. WHO publ., Geneva. WHO/NHD/01.1]

 

How to Prevent Iodine Deficiency

As is the case with many diseases, one of the best ways to handle an iodine deficiency is to prevent the problem rather have to treat it.

The World Health Organization has worked hard to eliminate iodine deficiencies around the world. Iodized salt in fact has been used around the world to treat iodine deficiencies, especially around the United States.

In some areas of the world injections of iodized oil are used where iodized salt is not possible. In certain places around the world iodination of water supplies has been used as a main treatment for deficiencies.

Across the United States, the National Institute of Medicine has stated that there is a recommended daily allowance for iodine. For men and women that allowance is set at 150 μg per day.

Individuals who can add tablet salt to the foods they eat are better off using iodized salt for their foods. The reason being, one teaspoon of iodized salt has 400 μg of iodine. There are many iodine filled multivitamins on the market here too which have on average 150 μg of iodine in them, but you have to be careful when seeking out vitamins.

Not every multi vitamin has iodine in it. Roughly half of those on the market have iodine in them, which is why you need to check before you begin taking them to ensure you are taking the right ones.

Pregnant women should be consuming 220 μg of iodine each day. Women who are breastfeeding should take 290 μg iodine. Women who are pregnant and breastfeeding are the ones who stand the highest risk of iodine deficiency.

Therefore, the American Thyroid Association recommends that any pregnant or breastfeeding woman in Canada and the United States take one prenatal multivitamin each day which contains 150 μg of iodine.

Taking Too Much Iodine

If you take too much iodine, it can cause problems.

This is especially the case in individuals who already have issues with their thyroid like autoimmune thyroid disease, hyperthyroidism, or nodules. Administering large quantities of iodine by way of medications, radiology procedures, or dietary excess can cause issues like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

It can also worsen existing conditions. Moreover, people who move from iodine-deficient regions to areas with adequate iodine intake can also develop thyroid issues because their thyroids have been trained to take up and use only small amounts of iodine. People facing this issue could develop iodine-induced hyperthyroidism.

For this reason, it is important to speak with a doctor or healthcare professional about ways to regulate intake and measure the amount of iodine in the foods, salts, or vitamins you might be taking. Combining all three might give you the right amount of iodine for your body or it might be slightly too much for the body. Chances are your body will help you to regulate naturally, and anything that goes beyond what is needed will be filtered out through the urine.

Overall, iodine is actually imperative for your body. Even people who have thyroid diseases need to consume iodine and regulate their consumption in order to help with their disease.

Can Bacopa Monnieri Benefit Your Thyroid?

Posted on by Thyroid Information

The thyroid gland influences almost all metabolic processes in the body through the hormones it produces. However, this gland is prone to various diseases or disorders that jeopardize patients’ health and quality of life. According to the American Thyroid Association, more than 12% of the US population will develop a thyroid condition at some point in their lives. It is estimated that 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, and that 60% of people aren’t even aware of their condition.

The most common thyroid problems are associated with either excessive or insufficient production of thyroid hormones i.e. hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Nowadays, various herbs and plants are thought to have a beneficial impact on the thyroid gland, which is why supplements containing these ingredients are gaining popularity. Bacopa monnieri is one of these plants, but exactly does this plant help your thyroid?

Can Bacopa Monnieri Benefit Your Thyroid?

First, let’s get to know bacopa monnieri, also called brahmi a little bit better. It is a perennial plant native to the wetlands of southern and eastern India, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and North and South America. Bacopa is one of many herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine due to its potent health benefits. It was primarily used to address epilepsy, asthma, tumors and anemia.

Make sure not to confuse bacopa monnieri with gotu kola and other medicinal plants which can also, sometimes, be referred to as brahmi. In fact, bacopa goes by multiple names, which is why some people don’t even notice they’re taking a supplement containing this ingredient. Other names for bacopa monnieri include herb of grace, herpestis herb, herpestis monniera, hysope d’eau, Indian pennywort, jalanimba and water hyssop.

The primary reason why bacopa monnieri’s usage in medicinal purposes persisted for centuries is the fact that it acts as an adaptogen, meaning the plant helps your body adapt to new or stressful conditions.

Bacopa monnieri and your thyroid

Bacopa is associated with a wide array of health benefits, but what most people don’t know is that this powerful plant can also help improve the functionality of the thyroid gland; it addresses a problem called hypothyroidism.

What is hypothyroidism? Underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism is defined as a condition wherein the thyroid gland doesn’t produce sufficient amounts of important hormones. Women are more likely to develop this condition than men, and it affects individuals older than 60 primarily. Causes of hypothyroidism are numerous including autoimmune disease, hyperthyroidism treatment, medications, thyroid surgery, and many others.

Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism vary, and they depend on the severity of the hormone deficiency. The most common symptoms of include fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, puffy face, hoarseness, weight gain, impaired memory, depression, and muscle weakness. It is not uncommon for patients to experience higher blood cholesterol levels, muscle aches, thinning hair, slowed heart rate, heavier or irregular menstrual periods, and tenderness, pain, and stiffness in the joints.

How can bacopa help? It appears that the bacopa monnieri leaf extract has the potential to reverse the function of the thyroid gland in a bid to regulate hormone levels.  This is why bacoba is gaining popularity among those who prefer a natural approach towards health and wellbeing; they are starting to realize the plant can benefit the thyroid. That said; this subject is poorly studied. There is only one, but highly significant research on this subject, and its findings not only shed the light onto thyroid problems, but they also pave the way for future studies and the potential use of bacopa for hypothyroidism.

What did the study find?

This particular study was carried out by a group of researchers at the Devi Ahilya University in India. The primary objective was to analyze the impact of bacopa, aloe vera, and angle marmelos on the regulation of thyroid hormone concentrations. For the purpose of the research, scientists used male mice. Their findings, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, showed that while other plants decreased the production of thyroid hormones, bacopa monnieri increased it.

Based on these results, the group of researchers concluded that bacopa monnieri has a thyroid-stimulating role. In fact, the effect of bacopa on thyroid hormones production wasn’t meager; the plant increased the concentration of T4 by 41% without enhancing hepatic lipid peroxidation. Here, T4 is a thyroid hormone called thyroxine. The results suggest that bacopa monnieri can be used as a thyroid-stimulating drug.

It’s important to mention that during the study, mice were given 50% ethanolic extract of bacopa at an oral dosage of 200mg/kg a day for 15 days.

Do bacopa monnieri supplements have side effects?

Generally, if you have hypothyroidism, you shouldn’t use supplements or any other forms of treatment without discussing it with your doctor. The ingredients in any supplement can interfere with the efficacy of your medications, and that’s a scenario you want to avoid.

Since bacopa monnieri is a plant and is usually included in dietary supplements made of natural ingredients, the risk of adverse effects is low. Of course, it is highly important that you take only the suggested dosage. Don’t increase or decrease the dose of the supplement out of your own accord.

If you want to consume organic bacopa monnieri i.e. in leaf form, then t things can be a bit tricky. At this point, when it comes to bacopa in its plant form, there is no standard dosage that a person should take to stimulate thyroid hormone production.

It is very important to point out the obvious fact that you shouldn’t take bacopa monnieri if you have hyperthyroidism as the plant could only aggravate your condition.

Other benefits of bacopa monnieri

Now that you know how bacopa monnieri can benefit the thyroid gland, let’s discuss some other benefits associated with this plant.

  • Brain health and cognitive abilities – active compounds in bacopa positively influence brain cells and support the regeneration of brain tissue. For instance, one study showed that bacopa has a tremendous potential to safely enhance cognitive performance in elderly participants
  • Liver health – bacopa is also useful for encouraging liver function following toxin damage
  • Addresses neonatal hypoglycemia – low blood sugar or hypoglycemia in newborn infants can lead to serious and immediate brain damage and other negative health outcomes. Active compounds from bacopa exhibit neuro-protecting effects in hypoglycemic babies
  • Promotes healthy blood pressure – bacopa increases the utilization of nitric oxide and encourages vascular muscle function. Both these factors are essential for healthy blood pressure
  • Antioxidant – antioxidants fight free radicals in order to protect our body from oxidative damage. Bacopa is known for its powerful antioxidant properties, which is yet another reason this plant is popular
  • Sexual function – bacopa monnieri is also used to treat sexual dysfunction and fertility problems. Due to the utilization of nitric oxide and the fact it promotes healthy blood flow, bacopa is a standard ingredient in male enhancement supplements that aim to help men have stronger and long-lasting erections

How to take bacopa monnieri

Although bacopa monnieri can be found in nature, most people find it easier to take it as a supplement. As mentioned above, if your doctor approves the use of bacopa monnieri, you should stick to the dosage he recommends. In most cases, the dose is 300mg. It is also possible for some patients to to get the plant in leaf or powder form, and the dose in that case is usually, 750-1500mg.

Back in time, bacopa was consumed with ghee which is a clarified butter that originated in India. This tradition was actually useful because bacopa is fat soluble, which means it needs a lipoid transporter in order to be fully absorbed by the body and exhibit its benefits.That’s why the right way to take bacopa is alongside a meal.

Tips to improve thyroid function

  • Eat cruciferous vegetables
  • Munch on Brazil nuts
  • Lower consumption of gluten
  • Increase intake of Omega-3 fatty acids, and foods containing iodine, selenium, zinc
  • Manage stress
  • Exercise regularly
  • Use sauna and heat to eliminate the stored toxins known for their negative impact on thyroid functionality
  • Decrease the consumption of soy products

Conclusion

The thyroid is an important gland which produces hormones that play a role in a wide array of metabolic processes. It is not uncommon for people to experience different thyroid problems, and besides following doctor-recommended medications, making certain lifestyle changes is a good way to manage that condition. Bacopa monnieri is well-known for its medicinal properties, which is why the plant plays a major role in Ayurvedic medicine. According to Thyroid Advisor and other studies, bacopa has the potential to increase the production of thyroid hormone and help individuals suffering from hypothyroidism.

 

The Relationship Between Blood Pressure and the Thyroid

Posted on by Thyroid Information

The Relationship Between Blood Pressure and Thyroid

The dangers of high blood pressure are well-known yet this condition can often go undetected due to a lack of symptoms. High blood pressure, or hypertension, isn’t always a standalone health concern either. Secondary hypertension is fairly common and can occur as symptom alongside many health conditions, such as thyroid disorders.

Thyroid disorders are surprisingly common yet often go undiagnosed. The reason for this is not clear, but could be a combination of people not knowing common symptoms of thyroid disorders and doctors not testing for these issues often enough. Without treatment a thyroid disorder will only worsen over time, and if combined with hypertension can lead to severe health problems.

Thankfully more studies are being done on the link between hypertension and the thyroid, as the connection between the two was fairly unknown until recently. Early recognition of an ill thyroid gland and sudden high blood pressure is important for faster patient recovery.

Which Thyroid Disorders are Associated with Hypertension?

When hypertension is present in a patient with a thyroid abnormality it is often the thyroid gland that started this problem.

There are three types of thyroid conditions associated with secondary hypertension:

  • Hypothyroidism – Too little thyroid hormone being produced
  • Hyperthyroidism – Too much thyroid hormone being produced
  • Hyperparathyroidism – Overactive parathyroid glands

Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid disorder, affecting roughly 20 million Americans. It was once believed that an underactive thyroid gland would actually cause low blood pressure but studies have shown otherwise. Hypertension occurs in those with hypothyroidism because of how the thyroid hormones affects blood vessel and arterial constriction. Healthy thyroid hormones levels have an important dilating effect on the vascular system. When this hormone is suddenly not being produced at adequate levels, blood pressure rises because of vasoconstriction.

Hyperthyroidism is more rare, with only about 2.5 million Americans believed to have this disorder. While cases of hypertension are greater in patients with hypothyroidism, this is due to a much higher number of people having this disorder. When it comes to hyperthyroidism patients are actually more likely to develop secondary hypertension. A spike in too much of the thyroid hormone can lead to increased blood pressure. Interestingly, hyperthyroidism is more likely to cause isolated systolic hypertension. Those with this type of hypertension will notice that only the top number in their blood pressure reading spikes.

Hyperparathyroidism is more rare than the two main thyroid disorders but still has a correlation to hypertension. The parathyroid glands are actually four very small glands located on the back of the thyroid gland. These tiny but powerful glands produce the parathyroid hormone which controls calcium in the blood. Hyperparathyroidism occurs when these glands malfunction and allow too much calcium into the bloodstream. Too much calcium leads to higher blood pressure, which will develop into a disorder when it happens consistently.

Determining if you have a thyroid disorder can be done through a blood test. While you can get an idea of whether you might have hypo or hyperthyroidism by comparing common symptoms, the only way to know for sure is with lab work. It is a good idea for those that are more apt to developing thyroid conditions to regularly check in with their doctor so a potential gland issues will be caught more quickly. This includes those with a family history of thyroid disorders, overweight or obese people, and women who have entered menopause.

What is Secondary Hypertension?

Secondary hypertension is less common than primary hypertension and the most common high blood pressure disorder associated with the thyroid. Secondary hypertension is simply high blood pressure that is a symptom of another health issue. This type of hypertension is fortunately more easily identified and treated compared to more complex primary hypertension.

Hypertension of either type can lead to serious health consequences, made even more dangerous since secondary hypertension can show few symptoms. Some common signs of high blood pressure being secondary hypertension include:

  • Resistance to high blood pressure medication
  • Unusually high blood pressure
  • High blood pressure medication gradually losing its effect
  • Rapid development of hypertension

Unlike primary hypertension, those with secondary hypertension may have no history of high blood pressure and could otherwise be fit or at a health weight. Essentially secondary hypertension cause occur even when a patient’s lifestyle wouldn’t normally prompt a blood pressure issue.

It can be argued that secondary hypertension can be more of an issue than primary. The reason for this is that the hypertension will not only worsen the original health problem, but it also can cause it’s own negative side-effects. This can make treatment more difficult. Left untreated secondary hypertension can cause:

  • Atherosclerosis (hardening and thickening of the arteries)
  • Aneurysms
  • Kidney Damage
  • Loss of Vision
  • Heart Failure

Untreated hypertension can also induce further metabolic disorders which weakens the body, increasing the chances of serious health problems like diabetes. Even if the hypertension hasn’t yet reached a threatening high, consistent hypertension will begin to affect your daily life by harming memory and brain function. The risks of heart disease and even stroke make secondary hypertension just as serious as primary.

Treating secondary hypertension will often not only control the high blood pressure concern, but aid in alleviating the underlying disorder that originally caused it to happen. If a thyroid disorder is the cause of your high blood pressure, you won’t be able to completely solve this problem unless both issues are treated. In some cases just getting on medication for the thyroid will bring blood pressure back down to a healthy level without further treatment.

How are Thyroid Disorders with Secondary Hypertension Treated?

If you suspect a thyroid disorder you should schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately. As mentioned above a blood test is the only way to determine if you have a disorder. There are actually four different blood tests to determine a thyroid disorder, which include:

  • T3
  • T3RU
  • T4
  • TSH

Of these four the first test most doctors call for is the T4 or the TSH. Both tests can be used to detect either of the thyroid disorders. The T4 test will show high for hyperthyroidism and low for primary or secondary hypothyroidism. The TSH blood panel will show the opposite – low for hyperthyroidism, high for primary hypothyroidism and low for secondary hypothyroidism.

The names of these tests, such as T3 and T4, are named so after the thyroid hormone. There are two thyroid hormones present in the body, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Typically if a thyroid test comes back with abnormal or unclear results, your doctor may do another blood test for further lab work.

If you are experience hypertension and a thyroid test comes back with an abnormal result, it is likely that your high blood pressure is secondary hypertension. Treatment of secondary hypertension will differ greatly depending on your physician and the severity of your disorder.

For example, if your doctor determines that your secondary hypertension isn’t severe and it stemming from your thyroid, you may only need to be put on thyroid medication to solve both issues. On the other hand, if you doctor finds you have a severe thyroid condition and hypertension, typically both health issues will need to be tackled at once. This may include a treatment plan of both thyroid medication and high blood pressure medication.

If your doctor determines that you have hyperparathyroidism treatment will differ from hypo or hyperthyroidism. Instead of a T4 medication or other treatment your doctor may instead use hormone replacement therapy, bisphosphonates or calcimimetics. Sometimes surgery is required. Those with secondary hypertension and hyperparathyroidism may be more likely to need to go on a blood pressure medication until the hyperparathyroidism is under control.

Secondary hypertension and thyroid disorders can have dangerous effects on health when left ignored, but thankfully the average person with these issues can have both cured with medication and physician supervision. Those with a family history of hypertension should pay special attention if they suspect a thyroid issue.