The Tiny Thyroid Gland and Its Massive Impression
The Butterfly Effect
The butterfly effect is the idea that small things can have non-linear impacts on a complex system. Just imagine a little butterfly flapping its wings and causing a typhoon. Sounds impossible, right? However, the statement can be quite true, even though we are not talking about quantum physics or how a tiny gust of wind can create a massive tornado. We do know that a simple system with few variables can create unpredictable and sometimes chaotic behaviors.
The thyroid gland in the endocrine system just so happens to be tiny shaped like a butterfly and could be the culprit behind hidden hormonal imbalances and several autoimmune issues. So, what is this thing that is making you feel fatigued, causing forgetfulness, and making your bones ache? You might have thought that you are facing everyday stress, but your thyroid gland might be the culprit behind all of this.
Overactive and Underactive Thyroid Issues
Just like anything else in this life, our bodies were designed to function with clarity and balance. The only problem is, demanding lifestyles bring upon stressful situations, making balance seem impossible to achieve. Our hormones can respond in the same manner. The thyroid gland is regulated by a hormone called thyroxine, and this hormone helps the thyroid with your heart rate, muscles and digestive functions, and bone maintenance. Those are some major functions to be left unchecked and when your thyroid produces too many or too few hormones, it can cause imbalances that are associated with a host of symptoms. Hyperthyroidism is described as an overactive thyroid and hypothyroidism is the term for underactive or few hormones. Here are several symptoms that could indicate issues with your thyroid:
- Heartrate (increased heart rate?)
- Excessive tiredness
- Weight gain/loss
- Anxiety/depression
- Body shakes
- Trouble focusing/cognitive impairment
- Hair loss
What happens if thyroid issues are left untreated and how can I move forward?
When this tiny butterfly gland is producing too many or too few hormones, it can cause serious problems if left untreated. One of the most common effects you see with women is Hashimotos. Hashimotos is not only a thyroid disease but rather a multi-system disease that attacks the immune system. This disorder may be difficult to screen for in the beginning stages simply because your thyroid levels will appear normal. However, please note that if you are experiencing hypothyroid symptoms, and your test results come back normal, this may not be all in your head. It’s very normal to have every symptom, only to leave the doctor with normal results. Instead, try to get a more in-depth screening that focuses on thyroid autoantibodies.
Depending on the severity of your thyroid issues, treatment can be regulated through medication, regular hormone replacement treatments, and alternative medicine consisting of diet, nutrition, lifestyle, and esoteric therapies. Eating healthy is especially important if you have thyroid issues. Several foods can trigger flare-ups, create chronic fatigue and cause indigestion issues as the result of the imbalance. Supplements and naturopathic treatments are also great natural alternatives to help alleviate hormonal imbalance that is related to thyroid disease. Even though the thyroid gland is such a tiny organ that creates a massive effect on major parts of the body, you can still enjoy life and learn how to manage your stress levels, imbalances, and occasional brain fog.
Schedule a call with Dr. Holly Donahue today. I’ll evaluate your thyroid function and any possible nutrient deficiencies to create a customized treatment plan just for you.