Can Bioidentical Hormones Help Hyperthyroidism?
In today’s world, a lot more individuals are learning they have conditions such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. These thyroid imbalances can be the cause of a lot of uncomfortable symptoms, and they can impact that individual’s everyday life, especially when it isn’t noticed right away. There are several treatment options for thyroid issues, and many of them, especially when combined, can offer you relief from your symptoms of these thyroid disorders. However, some people may want to look into a more natural route for helping their thyroid issues, and there are constantly new advancements in this natural approach. Let’s take a look at one of the more natural ways to help combat symptoms of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism: bioidentical hormones.
What are Thyroid Disorders?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped organ in your neck that is responsible for regulating a lot of your body’s systems and keeping them healthy. Thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism and hyperthyroidism, occur when there is a hormone imbalance in the body. The hormones that are associated with thyroid levels, thyroxine (T4), are what doctors look at to see if your body is making the right amount. When your body is making too much of the thyroid hormone, it means you have an overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism. If your body is not making enough of the thyroid hormone, it is known as having an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism. Both of these thyroid disorders have symptoms that can be quite uncomfortable and can worsen with time if not treated. Luckily, there are options for treating thyroid conditions.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are hormones that are safe, natural, and created to mimic the body’s own natural hormones. These hormones can help to replace or even out the hormones in the body, which in turn can bring about relief from a variety of symptoms that are caused by a hormone imbalance.
How Do I Use Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are created from natural ingredients, such as soy and yams. They contain hormones such as estrogen, progestin, testosterone, and other hormones that are completely customized to each individual patient. The hormones are then turned into a small pellet, the hormones are placed under the skin near the hips or buttocks. Your doctor will give you local anesthesia to numb the area, and then place the pellet under the skin. After the pellet is placed, the hormones will slowly be released into the body and can help get your hormone imbalances under control. Each pellet typically lasts up to four months, at which time it will need to be replaced in order to keep receiving the hormone replacement.
Can Bioidentical Hormones Help Thyroid Conditions?
Whether you have hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or have had your thyroid removed due to health concerns such as cancer, there are ways to help your body get the thyroxine hormone that is required for a healthy body. While bioidentical hormones were not traditionally created for this purpose, it is possible for doctors to use this form of hormone therapy to ensure that a patient can get their thyroid hormones evened out properly. Bioidentical hormones can also help to alleviate symptoms that occur with conditions of the thyroid, such as the following:
- Weight gain or weight loss
- Fatigue or excess energy
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Dry, itchy skin
- Muscle weakness, tenderness, and pain
- Increased thirst and hunger
- Increased urination
- Depression
- Change in sex drive
If you find yourself suffering from some of these symptoms, it is important that you talk to your doctor. It could be that you have a thyroid condition, and getting started on hormone therapy is important, especially if your symptoms are severe.
If you would like to learn more about thyroid conditions, and bioidentical hormones, or to make an appointment with Dr. Ghozland, call our office today at 310-393-9359 and we will be happy to help you!