Thyroid

Your thyroid is a gland in the front of your neck, lying either side of your windpipe (oesophagus). It is an endocrine gland which is responsible for secreting hormones to help your body function properly, (the metabolic rate which cells work) These hormones are called T3 Thyroxine and T4 triiodothyronine.

Common thyroid disorders:

Hypothyroidism: underactive thyroid (not enough thyroxine produced). Signs and Symptoms may include tiredness, fatigue, depression, weight gain, feeling cold and losing the outer third of eyebrow.

Hyperthyroidism: over active thyroid (too much thyroxine produced). Signs and symptoms include anxiety, weight loss, irritability, heat intolerance and trouble sleeping (insomnia).

Thyroid disorders are commonly caused by autoimmune diseases which means that the body believes the gland is a foreign body and so tries to attack the thyroid cells.

Thyroid disorders are diagnosed by types of symptoms, examination of the neck and a blood test. After diagnosis, most conditions can be treated with daily medication.

How can health and vitality help?

Osteopathy and Chiropractic cannot cure the conditions however, we can help promote optimal spinal health which can have an effect of the immune system. This is important as if the immune system becomes weakened it may cause a chronic infection which could lead an autoimmune response, which could effect the thyroid. People who suffer from thyroid complaints often suffer with other musculoskeletal conditions in which we can help with. Call us today to find out more and speak to one of the team.

 

Please visit our contact page for location details, opening hours and telephone number. The Health & Vitality Centre is based in Welwyn Garden City and our team look forward to meeting you there!