Hypothyroidism and Homoeopathy

Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, which are crucial for regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall body function.

PRIMARY CAUSES:

Autoimmune disease (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis). MOST COMMON CAUSE
Iodine deficiency or excess.

SECONDARY CAUSES:

Thyroid surgery or damage from radiation
Medications
Congenital factors (born with it)
Pituitary disorders
Pregnancy-related thyroiditis
Sub acute thyroidits:viral infections causing inflammation
Aging or genetic factors.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism:

Fatigue
Weight gain
Cold intolerance
Depression
Dry skin and hair
Muscle weakness
Constipation
Menstrual irregularities in women.

Conventional Treatment:

The primary treatment for hypothyroidism is hormone replacement therapy with synthetic thyroid hormone, typically levothyroxine. This helps normalize thyroid hormone levels and alleviates symptoms.

ROLE OF HOMEOPATHY:

In primary causes, results are excellent as per homoeopathic principles of HOLISITIC SCIENCE. In secondary causes, helps along with treatment as complementary.
In homoeopathy, the treatment is individualized, meaning remedies are selected based on the person’s specific symptoms, overall health, and emotional state rather than just the diagnosed condition.
Since it is a chronic and progressive disease, dosage of conventional doses goes on increasing, in homoeopathy as symptoms and patient better, DOSAGE is gradually REDUCED.
Inspite of the regular treatment, mood swings, weight gain are seen, such cases are well managed with individualised homoeopathy. Weight is reduced and controlled well.

CASE STUDY:

A lady 43 years old came with complaints of swelling of face, legs, and weight gain since 6 months. She was diagnosed Hashimoto Thyroiditis with anemia. She was a tax consultant and had continuous stress from work. She had the responsibility of earning and looking after her children. She has an irritable temperament and remains depressed. But she did her work well and use to feel alone and remember her past life events. She was very well treated with homoeopathic medicine and her dosage of Eltroxin 50 mg was reduced in 6 months and in a year, Eltroxin was stopped. Her swelling reduced with weight remained constant. She was able to deal with her home and work in a harmonious way.

Some commonly used homeopathic remedies for hypothyroidism include:

Calcarea Carbonica: Often prescribed for individuals who experience weight gain, fatigue, cold intolerance, and sluggishness. It may be suited for people with a slow metabolism and frequent chills.
Sepia: Used for those experiencing chronic fatigue, irritability, mood swings, and coldness. It’s especially helpful for women dealing with hormonal imbalances.
Lycopodium: Beneficial for individuals with digestive issues like bloating and gas, along with hypothyroidism symptoms such as hair loss, low energy, and anxiety.
Thyroidinum: Derived from the thyroid gland itself, this remedy may support thyroid function and help alleviate extreme fatigue, chilliness, and weight issues.
Graphites: Recommended for those with dry, rough skin, constipation, and fatigue. It is useful when sluggishness and weight gain are prominent symptoms.
Natrum Muriaticum: Helpful for individuals with emotional sensitivity, depression, hair loss, and water retention linked to thyroid issues.
Pulsatilla: Often prescribed for women who experience emotional fluctuations, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold.

ALTERNATIVE MANAGEMENT:

DIET AND WEIGHT: Proper exercise, healthy eating habits, proper sleep helps in the long run.
stress management: Stress being most important factor for underactive thyroid. It requires emotional as well social help in cases of anxiety and depression. Professional counselling is often helpful. Meditation, yoga, exercises helps in releasing happy hormones.
adequate intake of iodine-rich foods.
vitamins and minerals supplementation.