Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune condition, which means that the body is attacking its own cells. In this instance, the cells in the thyroid. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped hormone producing organ located in the neck, near the Adam’s Apple. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis usually causes hypothyroidism, where the thyroid is not producing enough hormones, despite the brain sending out heaps of signals (in the form of TSH – Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, which is usually high in Hashimoto’s & hypothyroidism).
Hashimoto’s often makes you feel like SHIT. You’re tired, you keep putting on weight, you get easily constipated, you may have heavy periods or be having trouble making a baby (this is true for both men & women with Hashimoto’s). There’s often a lot going on, and you may be working really hard to try and feel well & loose weight, but nothing seems to do the trick.
Is Hashimoto’s the same as hypothyroidism?
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Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition that can cause hypothyroidism
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Hypothyroidism = the body is unable to produce enough thyroid hormones, despite the pituitary gland in the brain sending out lots of TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, when TSH levels are high it often indicates hypothyroidism)
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The autoimmune response of the body’s own cells attacking the thyroid (Hashimoto’s) can occur before hypothyroidism – although you’re likely only going to be diagnosed with Hashimoto’s once hypothyroidism has kicked in
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Hypothyroidism can occur as a result of causes other than Hashimoto’s, so just because you have hypothyroidism doesn’t mean that you have Hashimoto’s, although Hashimoto’s is the most common cause.
Can I do anything to stop my Hashimoto’s progressing?
Short answer is – it depends. A naturopath can help you with Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism by supporting the body’s ability to find homeostasis and heal itself – we do this by identifying triggers for your thyroid condition, reversing any nutrient deficiencies that may be contributing to your thyroid condition, supporting the regulation of your immune system (remember: Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune disease) and identifying any emotional blocks that may be contributing to your state of health.
In my Naturopathic Clinic in Croydon I prescribe a mixture of herbal medicines, individualised nutritional supplements, flower essences, diet & lifestyle advise to help support you to feel your best – getting to the bottom of what’s going on holistically. I offer both online consultations and face to face consultations here in our beautiful Women’s Health Clinic! Want to have a free chat for 15 minutes? Click here.
You can learn more about Hashimoto’s & hypothyroidism on my Hashimoto’s webinar!
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