Hashimoto’s disease is a disorder in which an individual’s immune system attacks his/her thyroid, causing inflammation of the gland. This can turn into hypothyroidism and affect the thyroid’s ability to produce hormones needed for metabolism, growth and many other functions vital to the body.
Typically goiter, a swollen lump that develops at the front of the throat, is often one of the first signs. Other symptoms may include:
weight gain
fatigue
paleness or puffiness of the face
joint and muscle pain
constipation
inability to get warm
difficulty getting pregnant
joint and muscle pain
hair loss or thinning, brittle hair
irregular or heavy menstrual periods
depression
slowed heart rate
Early treatment with acupuncture and Chinese medicine is necessary to help prevent complications associated with the disorder if it is left untreated. Some problems include:
- High cholesterol levels, which may lead to cardiovascular problems
- An enlarging goiter
- Mental health issues such as depression
- Slowed mental functioning
- Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage)
- Birth defects in babies born to mothers who were untreated while pregnant
- Infertility
- Extreme cold intolerance and drowsiness that can be followed by lethargy and coma
Recent Comments