Are you suffering from fatigue, constipation or depression? It could be your thyroid!

Many people do not realize that the symptoms they are experiencing could be caused by an over or under active thyroid gland. The thyroid glad is a vastly under appreciated, but immensely important gland in the body. It is located in the neck, by the voice box. It can be compared to a thermostat of your body: it runs your metabolism. When the thyroid is struggling to work, less thyroid hormone is produced and the body becomes sluggish and weak. When the gland is overactive, too much hormone is produced and the body is overworked and can become worn out easily.

Hypothyroidism or too little thyroid is a surprisingly common condition that could be the answer to a number of unexplained symptoms. There are several causes of hypothyroidism which can be determined by your history and simple blood tests. Symptoms of an underactive thyroid are signs of slow metabolism and include:
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Constipation
• Cold intolerance
• Weight gain
• Weakness
• Swelling
• Difficulty concentrating
• Menstrual irregularities
• Dry hair, skin, nails
• Hair loss
• Decreased libido
• Body aches

Your thyroid can also be overactive, which produces symptoms on the other end of the spectrum. When this happens your thyroid gland produces too much hormone. Having a high thyroid production can be a danger to your body mainly because it makes your heart beat faster and harder than normal. Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism are signs of a fast metabolism and include:
• Anxiety/nervousness
• Palpitations/increased heart rate
• Hypertension
• Difficulty concentrating
• Diarrhea
• Flushes of and intolerance to heat
• Restlessness
• Weight loss
• Irregular menses
• Increased perspiration
• Tremor
• Breathlessness
• Staring gaze
• Sleeplessness
• Increased appetite

Imbalances in your thyroid hormone can occur for a variety of reasons. After the cause has been determined, treatment options can be identified. The traditional route to thyroid disease ranges from hormone replacement to radioactive therapy to surgery. Although hormone replacement might be a necessary and effective route, there are other considerations to be made. Treatment does depend on both the cause and the severity of the disease. There may be vitamin or mineral replacement that may increase the efficiency of your thyroid. Additionally, there are specific foods that can hinder the production of adequate thyroid hormones. Finally, with the addition of homeopathic treatment, the susceptibility of having an imbalanced thyroid is addressed. The most individualized remedy is given in order to balance the whole body, which allows the thyroid to begin to stabilize hormones on its own.

If you are experiencing symptoms that may be due to an underactive or overactive thyroid, natural treatment is an option. I have found success in treating thyroid disease both naturally and concurrently with traditional medicines. You do not have to live with these symptoms. Get started on your road to recovery today!

Natalie Ham, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor in Tempe, Arizona. She treats many conditions but has a passion for thyroid disorders, woman's health and GI health. If you think Dr. Ham can help you, call for an appointment or free 15 minute phone consult today: 480-456-0402. www.drnatalieham.com