Doctors Specializing in Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)

Unlike other eye doctors, Thyroid Eye Disease Specialists have the right experience to provide the right care

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) is a rare eye condition. That’s why you shouldn’t visit just any eye doctor, also called an ophthalmologist. You should see a TED Specialist. They have the experience to diagnose TED and provide you with the care you need.

While there are about 20,000 ophthalmologists in the US, most are not considered TED Specialists. Many TED Specialists have advanced training in one area of ophthalmology, such as surgical procedures.

Find a TED Specialist in your area

Ophthalmologists specializing in Thyroid Eye Disease

Below are the types of specialized ophthalmologists that you could see. While they may have different titles, what they have in common is experience treating TED.

Oculoplastic surgeon

A type of ophthalmologist with advanced surgical training. From writing prescriptions to surgery, oculoplastic surgeons generally have the most experience treating TED.

Watch an oculoplastic surgeon describe his role in caring for patients with TED

Read transcript

Listen to your eyes Oculoplastic Surgeon Transcript

[Music.]

DON: An Oculoplastic Surgeon is usually one of the main caregivers of patients with thyroid eye disease. We tend to see patients fairly early on in the disease. So, this may be fairly close to the beginning of their symptoms where the swelling, the redness occurs. I think we typically guide patients through this course of involvement of the eye. Sometimes it’s just a matter of observation and monitoring, where we check their vision and make sure they’re not progressing. And then in cases where patients either develop vision loss, or they develop problems with double vision or even if the pressure builds up so high where we start to develop this congestion process then we might even consider surgery. If I can make a difference to one patient, to me, that’s what medicine is all about.

END 

Neuro-ophthalmologist

A type of ophthalmologist who focuses on how the eyes interact with the brain, nerves, and muscles. Some common conditions they treat are double vision, eyelid problems, and various types of vision loss; all of which can be symptoms of TED.

Strabismus specialist/surgeon

These ophthalmologists are experts in helping patients with crossed or misaligned eyes, called strabismus (struh-biz-muss), which is a common symptom of TED.

Retina/Vitreous specialist

A type of ophthalmologist who specializes in the retina, which is the part of the eye that takes in light and is responsible for central vision. They focus on treating vision issues, which are common symptoms of TED.

Cornea specialist

A type of ophthalmologist who specializes in the cornea, which is the clear, outer layer of the eye. They focus on treating damage to this part of the eye, which can be caused by retracted eyelids, or eyelids that can’t close properly. Retracted eyelids are a common symptom of TED.

What does a TED Specialist do?

TED Specialists will often:

• Conduct a baseline eye exam to test your vision and make note of all your symptoms. If your eyes are bulging, your TED Specialist may use a tool called an exophthalmometer (ek-sof-thuhl-mom-ih-ter) to measure how far they are bulging
• Conduct additional eye exams to see how your Thyroid Eye Disease is changing over time
• Create a TED treatment plan, which could include:
  • Steroids
  • Surgery
  • A different kind of treatment option
• Decide how often your Thyroid Eye Disease needs to be checked
• If you also have a thyroid condition, like Graves’ disease, your TED Specialist may work with your endocrinologist on an overall treatment plan
  • They will want to make sure the medicine you need for TED does not affect the medicine you need for another condition.

Find a TED Specialist in your area

Questions? Call a Nurse Advocate.

Get answers about TED and help finding a TED Eye Specialist.

Call 1-833-833-3930

Monday through Friday, 8AM to 8PM, ET.

Nurse Advocates do not provide individual patient care or medical advice. After speaking with a Nurse Advocate, be sure to talk to your doctor about your condition and treatment options.

Endocrinologists don’t usually treat Thyroid Eye Disease

If you have Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), you may have a separate thyroid condition, like Graves’ disease, for which you see an endocrinologist.

Endocrinologists specialize in glands and their hormones, like the thyroid and the important hormones your thyroid makes––not the eyes. Treatment for a thyroid condition won’t work for TED, and treatment for TED won’t work for a thyroid condition.

It’s important that you see a TED Specialist for TED, and an endocrinologist for any thyroid conditions.

What does an endocrinologist do?

Endocrinologists can:

• Help treat Graves’ disease or other thyroid conditions if you’re diagnosed with one
• Discuss the risk of developing TED, and the importance of early treatment
  • Up to 50% of people with Graves’ disease will develop TED
  • Find out if you’re at risk
• Work with your TED Specialist on an overall treatment plan
  • They will want to make sure the medicine you need for TED does not affect the medicine you need for another condition.

Hear from a real patient with Thyroid Eye Disease

Watch what a patient living with TED has to say about the importance of getting the right care.

Read transcript

Ron and Vicki Transcript

Ron:

I’m Ron. I have Graves’ disease and Thyroid Eye Disease. I was in law enforcement for 33 years, and simultaneously in the military reserves for 27.

Vickie:

We’ve been married for 28 years. We were both in the Coast Guard reserves.

Ron:

As a police officer, I periodically would have some blurred vision. Little bit of dizziness. One day I looked in the mirror, my right eye was completely as far as it would go toward my nose and looking upward. I was horrified. I was panicked. I didn’t know what it meant.

Vickie:

So I said we do need to go get this checked out because obviously something is wrong.

Ron:

The bulging and movement of the eyeballs was compressing my optic nerves. There was some question as to whether I would go completely blind. Not a lot of people knew what was happening initially. Then ultimately an endocrinologist said, “Yes, I know what’s wrong with you.”

Text on screen:

After months of increasing symptoms and loss of eye function, Ron was finally diagnosed with both Graves’ disease and thyroid eye disease.

With Ron’s vision rapidly deteriorating, doctors decided they needed to act fast.

Ron:

To save my vision, and prevent me from going completely blind, they had to perform fairly immediate surgery. And they did the first of six surgeries. Living with Thyroid Eye Disease certainly has its challenges. I had to rely on Vickie either to get me to and from work, or to get me to the bus stop.

Vickie:

My take charge husband having to rely on me and other people when that was not in his personality, which increased his frustration.

Ron:

I was not allowed on a public bus one time because I couldn’t read the destination above the driver’s windshield. And I asked him, “Does this bus go to so-and-so?” And he said, “Read the, the thing!” And I said, “I can’t!” And he says, “Well, then get off the bus!” I said, “I can’t read it because I’m legally blind.” Which I was. There was no bus ride for me that day. My blurred vision and such deteriorated to the extent I knew I could not perform on patrol duty. The Chief and the Captain had me turn over my weapon, and suddenly I can no longer do the things that cops do.

Text on screen:

Today, more than two decades since Ron’s diagnosis, they push forward with strength and gratitude.

Ron:

There are days when my eyes will start to cross or wander around and I’ll have dizziness and blurred vision, but I absolutely refuse to be a victim. For anyone who is suddenly having an onset of blurred vision, please don’t wait, don’t take chances, contact an endocrinologist and an ophthalmologist. Both of whom are experience with Thyroid Eye Disease and Graves’.

Vickie:

And I would add, that even if you don’t know that those are symptoms of Graves’ or the onset of Thyroid Eye Disease, if you are having symptoms that are significant—and double vision is definitely a significant symptom of something—don’t just pass it off as “I’m tired.”

Ron:

Vickie has meant everything to me. All is not lost, it’s just the beginning of a journey that can still be a pretty good journey.

Vickie:

We just don’t let any of the good days or bad days stop us from doing anything.

“For anyone who is suddenly having an onset of blurred vision, please don’t wait, don’t take chances, contact an ophthalmologist with Thyroid Eye Disease experience.” — Ron, real TED patient

To find a TED Specialist like Ron did, click here

A Patient’s Guide to Thyroid Cancer Care

We usually don’t pay much attention to our thyroid, a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck, just below the voice box. Yet it plays an important role in keeping us healthy.

Getting Started with Thyroid Cancer

The Thyroid produces hormones that influence virtually every part of the body including regulating heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and metabolism as well as affecting the nervous system, muscles and various other organs.

Many thyroid cancer patients are initially unaware that they have the disease. Often, a lump is found on the thyroid during a routine physician exam or while taking a medical image of the neck for other conditions. In the vast majority of patients, the lump is simply an infection or other benign condition of the thyroid. However, about 5 percent of the time, this finding turns out to be cancerous (where the cells of the thyroid gland grow uncontrollably and form a tumor) and further treatment is needed.

Symptoms

Most patients do not experience symptoms. However, some may feel enlarged lymph nodes or nodules in the neck or have difficulty swallowing or speaking. Although other conditions can also cause these symptoms, it is best to have a physician examine you. For a referral to one of Cedars-Sinai’s expert team members, please call 310-248-6510.

Risk Factors for Thyroid Cancer

The exact cause of many cases of thyroid cancer is unknown, but certain factors increase the risk of the disease, including:

• Age: Papillary and follicular thyroid cancer are more common in adulthood. Sporadic medullary thyroid cancer usually occurs in adults, while familial medullary cancer either is an isolated condition or is found in association with other endocrine tumors (multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes), generally occur in childhood or adolescence. Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, albeit rare, usually occurs in individuals over the age of 60.
• Gender: Women are two to three times more likely to develop thyroid cancer than men.
• Family history: Approximately five percent of patients with papillary thyroid cancer have a parent or sibling with thyroid cancer and usually have a familial form of the disease. The familial forms of medullary thyroid cancer are usually transmitted in a dominant fashion and therefore if an individual has a parent with one of these syndromes they have a 50 percent chance of having the genetic mutation that causes these diseases. There are several inherited conditions that are associated with well-differentiated thyroid cancer including papillary or follicular cancers: Gardner’s syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis, Cowden’s disease, and the Carney complex. If you or a family member have or have had any of these conditions, please contact our Medical Genetics Institute.
• Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
• History of radiation to head or neck: This was once used to treat enlarged tonsils, acne and the thymus. There is also an increase of thyroid cancer in people exposed to the 1986 nuclear power plant explosion in Chernobyl.

When to Seek Medical Advice

You should seek prompt medical attention if you experience a lump in your neck near your Adam’s apple, hoarseness or trouble swallowing or breathing. Although other conditions cause these symptoms, it is best to have a physician examine you.

Support Groups

The closest support group to Cedars-Sinai for thyroid cancer is ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association Inc.

Thyroid Cancer Frequently Asked Questions

How will I know I have thyroid cancer? Are there any symptoms I should look out for?

Thyroid cancer is the fastest growing cancer diagnosed in the US and cases have more than doubled in the last 30 years. Some patients have no symptoms but some may experience difficulty swallowing, enlargement of the neck, hoarseness, or neck or throat pain. If you have any of these symptoms or feel a lump in your neck, make an appointment with one of our expert endocrinologists at the Thyroid Cancer Program who specializes in the treatment of these symptoms.

What can I expect at my first doctor visit?

Your physician will feel your neck for any nodules and check your blood for the level of your thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). If necessary, he/she will perform a quick and painless ultrasound procedure. This will provide a picture of your thyroid and show your physician if any abnormal lymph nodes are present in your neck. Your physician may perform a fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy where a thin needle is inserted into the nodule(s) and a sample is taken to the lab for analysis. If positive for thyroid cancer, your physician will recommend surgery to remove the thyroid and any affected lymph nodes. If negative, your physician may simply follow you and monitor any growth of the nodules.

Do I need an endocrinologist, oncologist or can my regular doctor treat my thyroid cancer?

Endocrinologists are the primary treating MD for thyroid cancer. Oncologists can assist the endocrinologist when targeted chemotherapies are needed for the rare aggressive thyroid cancers. An oncologist or primary care physician are excellent resources however, since thyroid cancer is still relatively rare, we recommend you see one of our endocrinologists from our Thyroid Cancer Center who all specialize in the treatment of thyroid cancer.

How is thyroid cancer treated?

Thyroid cancer is typically treated by removing part or all of the thyroid and any affected lymph nodes. For some patients, radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment will be given to destroy any remaining thyroid cells. Thyroid hormone medication may also be prescribed for suppression of TSH levels which has also been shown to decrease recurrence of thyroid cancer in some patients. Follow up scans (ultrasounds, CT, MRI, PET) may also be done to monitor patients. Your endocrinologist will follow you closely to ensure that your medication is at the optimal level to decrease chances of recurrence.

If my thyroid is removed, will I have to take medication for the rest of my life?

All patients who have had their thyroid removed will need to take life-long thyroid hormone replacement. Approximately 50 percent of patients will need to take thyroid hormone supplementation after a hemithyroidectomy (partial removal of the thyroid) but it depends on each individual. Your thyroid is largely responsible for your metabolism, energy levels and other bodily functions. These hormones can be replaced via daily oral medications and your endocrinologist will work closely with you to determine the optimal level of medication that your body will need.

What can I expect the day of surgery?

Your surgeon will go over in detail what you can expect but in general, you will be directed to not eat anything the night prior to your surgery. Depending on the extent of the surgery, it will take about 2-3 hours and you will most likely be discharged within 24 hours with instructions on how to care for yourself and the incision. During your hospital stay, your doctors will monitor you for complications. Although you may feel fatigued and your voice may feel weak, most patients are able to eat, drink and talk right after the surgery. Most people only take between 2-3 days off work. Your endocrinologist will call you within a few days with the results of your surgery and give you detailed instructions on how to follow up.

What does the long term management of thyroid cancer entail? Will I need to take blood tests for the rest of my life?

Most thyroid cancer recurrence occurs within the first 5-10 years after initial diagnosis. After the first few years of twice annual visits for blood tests and neck ultrasounds, your endocrinologist will likely see you annually.

What are the chances of my thyroid cancer recurring?

While the recurrence rate for thyroid cancer is about 10-20 percent depending on size of the thyroid cancer, the chance of it returning is still there for over 20 years, although most recurrences are found within the first 10 years. Therefore, it is extremely important to have an experienced endocrinologist that specializes in the treatment of thyroid cancer on your team. Our Thyroid Cancer Center physicians are experts in this field and work together in providing you with exceptional care to improve your chances of disease-free survival.

Will I gain weight if my thyroid is gone?

As long as you are on an adequate amount of thyroid hormone, you should not expect to gain weight after your thyroid has been removed. It is important that you continue to maintain a healthy diet and exercise frequently to feel your best.

What is the difference between radioactive iodine treatment and chemotherapy? Do I need both and how do I know which treatment is right for me?

Radioactive iodine treatment (RAI treatment) may be prescribed about 6 weeks after your thyroid surgery to destroy any remaining thyroid tissue (papillary or follicular) in your body. It may also be used to treat thyroid cancer that is unable to be resected. Thyroid cells are the major cells in our body that picks up iodine so this type of treatment has less effect on other cells in your body. This type of treatment also makes it easier to monitor for recurrence and has been shown to improve survival rates for some patients.

Chemotherapy is not usually given for thyroid cancer unless it is a very aggressive form that is not responding to other forms of treatment. Your endocrinologist at the Thyroid Cancer Center is well versed in the treatment of thyroid cancer and will work you with to provide you with the very best outcome to ensure long term survival and low recurrence rates.

What does a low iodine diet entail?

Patients are required to go on a low iodine diet if they will be undergoing radioactive iodine treatment or diagnostic scan. Patients are on the diet for about 2 weeks prior to treatment and this enables the body to rid itself of any traces of iodine so that the radioactive iodine scan is able to identify and destroy any remaining iodine cells in the body. Please visit thyca.org for more information or for a detailed low iodine diet cookbook.

What is the risk of my children having thyroid cancer?

About 5 percent of patients with well-differentiated thyroid cancer (papillary or follicular) will have at least two close relatives with thyroid cancer. This can occur sporadically or in association with other cancer syndromes. The less common medullary carcinoma of the thyroid has a greater tendency to run in families and there is a genetic test that is available to test for it. The majority of patients with thyroid cancer do not have a genetic abnormality that was passed to them and would potentially be passed to their children.

Can I be seen at the Thyroid Cancer Center if I don’t have thyroid cancer?

Yes, we treat all types of thyroid conditions including Hashimoto’s, Graves’, hyperparathyroidism etc.

Who can I contact if I have more questions? How do I make an appointment?

How to choose a thyroid doctor: tips and tricks

Contents

• 1 Who should treat thyroid disease and how?
  • 1. 1 How to treat the thyroid gland
    • 1.1.1 Different methods of treatment
    • 1.1.2 Recommendations for the treatment of the thyroid gland
    • 1.1.3 Treatment of the thyroid gland in children
  • 1.2 Types of diseases thyroid gland
    • 1.2.1 Hypothyroidism
    • 1.2.2 Hyperthyroidism
    • 1.2.3 Chronic thyroiditis
    • 1.2.4 Autoimmune thyroiditis
    • 1.2.5 Thyrotoxicosis
    • 1.2.6 Follicular thyroid cancer

  9 0005 1.3 About the main thyroid specialists

  • 1.4 Thyroid treatment: the possibility without drugs
    • 1.4.1 Problem definition
    • 1.4.2 No drugs: proper nutrition
    • 1.4.3 No drugs: stress reduction
    • 1.4.4 No drugs: exercise
    • 1.4.5 Summary
  • 1.5 Physical exercise to restore the thyroid gland
    • 1.5.1 Yoga exercises
    • 1.5.2 Exercise “39”
  • 1.6 Treatment of thyroid with herbs and folk remedies
    • 1. 6.1 1 General information about the treatment of thyroid with herbs
    • 1.6.2 2. Which herbs help in the treatment of thyroid
    • 1.6.3 3. How to use herbs for the treatment of thyroid
  • 1.7 Drug treatment of the thyroid gland
    • 1.7.1 Thyroid hormone replacement medicines
    • 1.7.2 Thyroid suppression medicines
    • 1.7.3 Warnings and side effects
  • 1.8 Treatment considerations for thyroid in women
  • 1.9 Surgery for thyroid disorders
  • 1.10 Rehabilitation after thyroid surgery
    • 1.10.1 What happens after thyroid surgery?
    • 1.10.2 Main tasks of rehabilitation
    • 1.10.3 Who will assist in the rehabilitation of the patient?
  • 1.11 Prevention of thyroid disease
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • who?
      • 1.13.0.2 How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?
      • 1.13.0.3 What treatments are offered for thyroid disorders?
      • 1. 13.0.4 What habits and factors negatively affect the functioning of the thyroid gland?
      • 1.13.0.5 How is recovery after thyroid surgery?
      • 1.13.0.6 Can the treatment of thyroid disease be effective without the use of drugs and surgery?

Find out which specialists treat thyroid disease and what methods are used to treat it. Learn how to keep your thyroid healthy and how to prevent thyroid disease.

The thyroid gland is the organ responsible for the level of hormones in the body. Due to stress, poor lifestyle choices, hormonal imbalances, and genetic factors, the thyroid gland may not function properly. How to treat and who will help restore the health of this organ?

A specialist who treats the thyroid gland is called an endocrinologist. He conducts an examination and detects violations of the gland. After that, depending on the causes and extent of the disease, the specialist may prescribe drug therapy or surgery.

Important to remember! Experts recommend contacting an endocrinologist if signs of thyroid disorders have been observed for a long time, such as increased fatigue, drowsiness, hand tremors, menstrual irregularities, disorders in the gastrointestinal tract, etc. Early contact with a specialist will allow faster diagnose and treat the disease.

How to treat the thyroid gland

Various treatments

There are several treatments for thyroid disorders. In some cases, patients are advised to take medications that help normalize thyroid function. This may be necessary in case of insufficient or increased secretion of thyroid hormones.

Another treatment for the thyroid gland is radioactive iodine. It destroys tumors and cysts in the thyroid gland, but can adversely affect the functioning of other organs.

Recommendations for the treatment of the thyroid gland

For any thyroid disease, you should consult an endocrinologist for advice. The specialist will help determine the type of disease and prescribe the necessary course of treatment.

It is also important to watch your diet and exercise regularly. Foods high in iodine and selenium, such as seafood, seaweed, and nuts, will help keep your thyroid healthy.

In the presence of diseases, stressful situations should be avoided and bad habits such as smoking and alcohol should be abandoned.

Treatment of thyroid in children

Thyroid disorders in children may present differently than in adults. It is recommended that children be treated with drugs or undergo surgery only when absolutely necessary. At the same time, it is important that the child receives a sufficient amount of iodine and selenium, especially during the period of growth and development of the body.

Attention should be paid to the child’s nutrition and regular visits to the endocrinologist in order to detect and treat thyroid diseases in a timely manner.

Types of thyroid diseases

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is an underfunction of the thyroid gland, in which it does not produce enough hormones to maintain normal body functions. Symptoms of hypothyroidism can include fatigue, depression, memory loss, drowsiness, and decreased metabolism.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much hormone, resulting in a rapid metabolism. Symptoms may include rapid heart rate, sweating, anxiety, depression, strong appetite, and weight loss.

Chronic thyroiditis

Chronic thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland that can damage the thyroid gland and reduce its function. Symptoms may be similar to those of hypothyroidism, including fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, and weight changes.

Autoimmune thyroiditis

Autoimmune thyroiditis is an inflammatory disease of the thyroid gland associated with defects in the immune system. It can damage and reduce thyroid function. Symptoms may be similar to those of hypothyroidism, including fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, and weight changes.

Thyrotoxicosis

Thyrotoxicosis is a condition that can develop with hyperthyroidism, in which the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. Symptoms may include rapid heart rate, sweating, anxiety, depression, strong appetite, and weight loss.

Follicular thyroid cancer

Follicular thyroid cancer is a type of malignant tumor that develops in the thyroid gland. They may not show obvious symptoms initially, but over time they can become cancerous and spread to other parts of the body.

About the main specialists treating diseases of the thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is an organ of the endocrine system that is responsible for the body’s metabolism. It can be exposed to various diseases that require complex treatment. One of the main doctors involved in the treatment of this gland are endocrinologists.

Oncologists, surgeons and radiologists can also take part in the treatment of thyroid diseases. They are involved in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer. Radiologists may perform various tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT.

In addition, dietitians and nutritionists can help patients with thyroid disorders by developing a personalized diet that will help maintain the health and metabolism of the body.

Treatment of the thyroid gland: a possibility without drugs

Identifying the problem

The thyroid gland is a very important organ that is responsible for the production of hormones necessary for the normal functioning of the body. But in some cases, the thyroid gland does not work as it should, and this can lead to many health problems. Thyroid can be treated with a variety of methods, including medications. But if you do not want to use drugs, then there are alternative ways of treatment.

Without drugs: proper nutrition

One of the methods of treatment of thyroid gland without drugs is nutrition correction. Particular attention should be paid to the consumption of hormones necessary for the thyroid gland, such as iodine. Iodine is found in fish, shellfish, eggs, red beets, algae. You should also reduce your intake of foods that promote weight gain, as excess body can affect the functioning of the thyroid gland.

Drug Free: Stress Reduction

Another non-drug treatment for thyroid disease is to reduce stress levels in the body. Stress is a factor that affects the functioning of the thyroid gland and can lead to unstable work. To reduce stress, yoga, meditation, relaxation techniques, and releasing massages are useful.

Medication-free: exercise

The third method of treating thyroid without medication is regular exercise. They contribute to the improvement of metabolism in the body and the redistribution of energy. Special exercises for the thyroid gland, described on the Internet, can help restore its work.

Results

Thus, if for some reason you do not want or cannot use medications for the treatment of thyroid gland, then there are alternative methods that can help restore its work. Diet, stress reduction, and exercise are not substitutes for drug treatment, but they can help improve and promote health.

Physical exercise to restore the thyroid gland

Yoga exercises

Yoga is one of the most effective ways to improve health and strengthen your immune system. Certain yoga exercises can help restore thyroid health. One such exercise is the Plow. This pose helps relieve pressure on the thyroid gland.

• Lie face down on the floor.
• Raise your legs up and out of boat pose.
• Lower your legs behind your head and touch your knees to the floor.
• Then slowly move your legs back into Boat Pose.

Perform this pose on a cold floor and stay in it for 1-2 minutes.

Exercise 39

Exercise 39 is a traditional exercise used in Chinese medicine to strengthen the body as a whole. However, it is also beneficial for the thyroid gland.

1. Stand up straight and connect your feet.
2. Relax and squeeze the air out of your lungs.
3. Shake your hands to bring energy to you.
4. Place your palms on your belt and activate your self-protective lower back center.
5. Lean forward 45 degrees and press your upper lip against your lower lip.
6. Count to nine and catch your breath on a nine.

Swimming the energy to the abdomen, find the pinched points in the area of ​​the thyroid gland, massaging them slowly. When performing this exercise, you should exercise in the fresh air and avoid strenuous physical exertion before bedtime.

Treatment of thyroid with herbs and folk remedies

1. General information about the treatment of thyroid with herbs

The thyroid gland is the main organ of the endocrine system, which is responsible for many important functions in the body. Various disorders of the thyroid gland are possible, such as hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, goiter, thyroid cancer, etc.

Herbs and folk remedies can be used to treat thyroid problems. Herbs can help improve thyroid function, reduce thyroid inflammation, shrink goiters, and more.

However, be aware that herbs may have side effects and may not be effective for certain conditions. Herbal treatment should be carried out only after consulting a doctor.

2. What herbs help in the treatment of thyroid

There are a large number of herbs that help in the treatment of thyroid. For example, walnut, nettle, calendula, St. John’s wort, birch leaf, etc.

Walnut contains vitamins and microelements that help improve thyroid function and reduce inflammation. Nettle contains vitamins and minerals that improve metabolism in the body and lower blood cholesterol levels. Calendula has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps to reduce the level of thyroid hormones in the blood.

3. How to use herbs in the treatment of thyroid gland

Each herb has its own characteristics of application and dosage. For example, when using a walnut, you should use it inside in the form of a decoction prepared from 10 g of nuts per 1 liter of water.

Nettle can be consumed as an infusion or decoction by drinking 1 glass 3 times a day every day before meals. Calendula can be used internally as an infusion or externally as a compress.

Be aware that herbs can have side effects and cause allergic reactions. Before starting herbal treatment, you should consult your doctor and follow the recommendations for dosage and use.

Thyroid drugs

Thyroid hormone replacement drugs

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is treated with drugs that replace the missing thyroid hormones. These can be tablets of levothyroxine, litothyron, triiodothyronine.

Medicines work by carefully regulating the amount of thyroid hormones in the body and lowering blood cholesterol levels.

Thyroid suppressants

For hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), drugs that are thyroid inhibitors are used. Such medicines are Tyrozol, Methimazole and Proptizol.

Medicines block the production of thyroid hormones, which leads to a decrease in the level of hormones in the blood and improves the general condition of the body.

Warnings and side effects

• Before starting treatment, it is necessary to undergo a diagnosis and consult an endocrinologist.
• Take medication exactly as directed by your doctor and do not skip doses.
• When taking medicines, side effects may occur, such as: nausea, dizziness, allergic reactions.
• Thyroid hormone levels should be checked regularly.

Features of thyroid gland treatment in women

The thyroid gland is an organ of the endocrine system that synthesizes hormones that regulate basic metabolism and cell growth. In women, the thyroid gland is subject to more changes associated with age and hormonal balance.

In the case of thyroid disease in women, treatment may vary depending on the cause of the disease. The most common diseases of the gland are hypo- and hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis and tumor processes.

In the treatment of thyroid gland in women, especially with its hypofunction, replacement therapy with synthetic thyroid hormones is used. Hyperthyroidism may be treated with antithyroid therapy, which suppresses thyroid function. In case of tumor processes, surgical intervention can be used.

• Although hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid tumors are common in both sexes, they are more commonly diagnosed in women.
• Women’s hormonal imbalance can cause thyroid diseases and aggravate their course.
• It is important to conduct preventive examinations and monitor the condition of the thyroid gland in time, especially in women over 40 years of age and women who have close relatives with thyroid diseases.

Thyroid surgery

Thyroid surgery may be required in case of diseases that cannot be eliminated by conservative methods of treatment.

One such disease is thyroid cancer, which can spread to other organs and tissues in the body.

Thyroid surgery may also be needed if a tumor has formed that is not cancer but is large or too close to important arteries and nerves.

During the operation, the surgeon removes the affected tissue of the thyroid gland or the entire gland. If the gland is completely removed, the patient will then need to take hormone therapy to maintain normal hormone levels in the body.

Some surgical procedures can save part of the thyroid gland, especially if there is a risk of developing thyroid failure.

Rehabilitation after thyroid surgery

What happens after thyroid surgery?

Thyroid surgery is a serious intervention in the body, after which there is a recovery period. In the first days after the operation, the patient is observed in the hospital in order to carry out the necessary treatment and prevent complications. The main consequence of the operation is the loss of thyroid function, which controls many processes in the body.

In addition, the patient may experience pain in the neck, disturbances in sensation or movement of the head, difficulty in swallowing and breathing. The need for constant intake of thyroid hormones will become a constant for the patient after surgery.

The main tasks of rehabilitation

The main task of the patient’s rehabilitation after surgery is related to the restoration and maintenance of the body. The rehabilitation process is aimed at restoring hormonal balance, increasing efficiency, relieving pain and preventing complications. Therefore, it is important not to dwell only on drug therapy, but also to engage in the process of strengthening your health and the body as a whole.

Lack of thyroid hormones will lead to deterioration in appearance, weight loss, health problems and possible depression. To improve your own condition, you need to monitor the proper intake of hormones, monitor nutrition, play sports, strengthen immunity and not lose heart.

Who will help with the patient’s rehabilitation?

Recovery of health after thyroid surgery requires the participation of several professionals: an endocrinologist, an attending physician, a physiotherapist and a nutritionist. The task of doctors is to establish the correct regimen for taking hormones, prescribing physical activity and physiotherapy procedures.

A nutritionist can help you understand which foods are best to eat, as some foods can affect the functioning of the thyroid gland. The most important task lies with the patient, who must control his health and strengthen his body during the rehabilitation period.

Prevention of thyroid disease

The thyroid gland is an important organ in the human body that produces hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, growth and development. To avoid the occurrence of thyroid diseases, it is necessary to monitor its health and undergo regular medical examinations.

One way to prevent thyroid disease is proper nutrition. It is necessary to eat foods containing iodine, since this mineral is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. Foods such as seafood, chicken, buckwheat, and eggs will help keep your thyroid healthy.

Another important way to prevent thyroid disease is a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise will help improve overall health, including thyroid health. Smoking and drinking alcohol also have a negative effect on the thyroid gland, so it is necessary to refrain from these bad habits.

• There are other measures to prevent thyroid disease:
• Use of radiation protection techniques . Radiation can cause damage to the thyroid gland, so it is necessary to use protective devices in situations where there is a risk of radiation exposure.
• Water test for iodine content . Some areas may not have enough iodine in their drinking water, which can lead to thyroid health problems. It is necessary to check the iodine content in drinking water and, if necessary, use iodized salt.
• Thyroid test . Regular health check-ups can help identify potential thyroid health problems early and take the necessary steps to address them.

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Q&A:

What symptoms indicate thyroid problems?

The most common symptoms include fatigue, irritability, weight changes, digestive problems, menstrual irregularities, changes in heart rate.

How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a general examination of the patient, followed by blood tests for the level of thyroid hormones. If there is a suspicion of a tumor, then an ultrasound and biopsy is performed.

What treatments are offered for thyroid disorders?

The standard methods of treatment for thyroid diseases are surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, medication – hormonal drugs, their dosage and periods of administration are selected depending on the diagnosis and condition of the patient.

What habits and factors negatively affect the functioning of the thyroid gland?

Smoking, alcohol consumption, low dietary fiber, prolonged use of contraceptives, stress and mental disorders, sleep disturbance, and sports before and after thyroid surgery.

How is recovery after thyroid surgery?

In the first days after surgery, the patient may experience neck pain and difficulty swallowing. Recovery occurs within 2-3 weeks after surgery, subject to proper nutrition and care. After the operation, it is necessary to visit the doctor regularly and do tests to control the level of hormones.

Can the treatment of thyroid disease be effective without the use of drugs and surgery?

In some cases, mild thyroid disease can be controlled with lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation, proper nutrition, regular hormone monitoring, and exercise. But in potentially dangerous cases, it will not be possible to do without the appointment of medicines and surgery by a specialist.

An endocrinologist told how thyroid diseases affect the course of coronavirus

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08/24/2021

People with chronic diseases tend to carry the coronavirus in a more severe form.

Elena Kiseleva, endocrinologist at Invitro-Voronezh , spoke about how chronic endocrine diseases affect the course of coronavirus infection and how to reduce the risk of a severe course of the disease.

1. What are the symptoms of thyroid disease in patients who have recovered from COVID-19most often?

COVID-19, like any viral infection, can trigger autoimmune processes in the body, when the immune system fails and begins to perceive its own cells as foreign. The body produces antibodies that attack its own organs, destroying them. In the case of the thyroid gland, it is primarily chronic autoimmune thyroiditis and subacute de Quervain’s thyroiditis. Since chronic autoimmune thyroiditis occurs in three stages (hyperthyroidism – increased thyroid function, euthyroidism – normal thyroid function and hypothyroidism – reduced thyroid function), complaints can be different depending on the stage. In subacute thyroiditis, the main symptom is pain, which can be quite intense, in the area of ​​the thyroid gland, which may be accompanied by a new increase in temperature, and symptoms of increased thyroid function (trembling, sweating, irritability). If these symptoms appear some time after any viral infection, including COVID-19You need to contact an endocrinologist immediately.

The general weakness that develops in everyone after suffering a coronovirus infection COVID-19 should already make you check your hormones even in the absence of other symptoms. There may be weakness, drowsiness, sweating, palpitations, irritability, swelling, shortness of breath, weight changes both in one direction and the other, menstrual irregularities in women, erectile dysfunction in men, changes in libido in both sexes. Nodules may begin to grow. Therefore, 4-8 weeks after the infection with COVID-19it is better to check the hormonal status of the thyroid gland and always with antibodies (TSH, T3 free, T4 free, AT-TPO), and after 3-6 months it is advisable to do an ultrasound of the thyroid gland. In case of abnormalities, you should contact an endocrinologist. Pain in the thyroid gland may indicate the development of subacute de Quervain’s thyroiditis, which requires immediate consultation with an endocrinologist.

As I said, subacute thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease. Any autoimmune disease can develop after any viral infection, including after COVID-19. In this case, the immune system begins to perceive the cells of its own body as foreign, and produces aggressive antibodies that destroy the organ, in this case the thyroid gland.

2. What complications and why can people with chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes experience after COVID-19?

COVID-19 on the background of diabetes and obesity is most severe. These diseases are risk factors for severe course and death in case of coronovirus infection. Patients with these chronic endocrine diseases have the highest risk of greater damage to the lung tissue with the development of respiratory and heart failure. Therefore, it is important to strive to reduce weight and compensate for diabetes, and you should also remember about the prevention of coronovirus infection.

Any infectious disease leads to decompensation of diabetes mellitus, therefore, its course is initially expected to worsen, increase in glucose levels, develop ketosis, which can lead to coma. If you have diabetes, it is important to remember that not all diabetes medications can be used for COVID-19, and you should always consult with your doctor.

And obesity after COVID-19 can develop and reveal type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes always begins without visible symptoms and runs latently until age 10, and COVID-19exacerbates its course and leads to a quick diagnosis. Hypertension may also develop. These diseases are associated, among other things, with the use of drugs such as dexamethasone and prednisolone in the treatment of coronovirus infection. Therefore, you can not use these drugs without a doctor’s prescription.

3. How might thyroid dysfunction be associated with muscle loss in people who have recovered from COVID-19?

Sarcopenia or loss of muscle mass is a problem of our physical inactivity and obesity, which leads to faster development of atherosclerosis and aging in general, which is one of the five main causes of morbidity and mortality in people over 65 years of age. It sharply worsens the quality of human life, significantly increasing the risk of falls, reducing the possibility of active life and the ability of a person to self-service. Both of these diseases (hypothyroidism and COVID-19) exacerbate muscle loss. To prevent this, you need to compensate for all your chronic diseases, including hypothyroidism, constantly engage in physical activity and take vitamin D in a prophylactic dose. After a new coronovirus infection, they use protein-enriched (in the absence of contraindications) and specially designed physiotherapy exercises, and, of course, vitamin D, the dose of which is strictly determined by the doctor.

4. Can COVID-19cause hair loss and what role does the thyroid gland play in this?

Just like COVID-19 itself, an underactive thyroid can cause hair loss. There are many internal causes for hair loss. Some exist on their own, we are talking about individual diseases that can occur, like all autoimmune processes, after any viral infection, including after COVID-19. Others arise as a result of deficiencies of hormones, vitamins, microelements and / or protein deficiency that have arisen after a coronovirus infection.

Lack of vitamins and microelements affects the production of hormones. At the same time, uncontrolled intake of vitamins can lead to hypervitaminosis of some vitamins, which is a separate disease, as well as to poor absorption and lack of other vitamins and microelements, and as a result, to various fluctuations in the hormonal background. The need for certain vitamins and microelements, as well as their dosage, is determined by the endocrinologist based on the results of laboratory tests.

5. How important is thyroid health in the fight against coronovirus?

The thyroid gland is often called the “conductor” of the body. Any pathology can complicate the course of COVID-19. With reduced thyroid function, immunity decreases, obesity develops, iron deficiency and B12 deficiency anemia, which can lead to heart or lung failure. In hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis), drugs are used that can also affect bone marrow function and lead to a decrease in the production of white blood cells, and therefore to a decrease in immunity, and heart failure can lead to the development of cardiopulmonary failure.

In obesity, which is observed in hypothyroidism, and in chronic myocardial damage (myocardial dystrophy) with the development of arrhythmias, as in thyrotoxicosis, a more severe course of COVID-19 has already been proven, with a maximum risk of developing complications in the form of massive lung damage, accompanied by cardiopulmonary insufficiency up to death. Thus, any thyroid disease can cause a severe course of coronavirus infection, especially during the period of decompensation. Therefore, if any deviation from the norm is detected in the thyroid gland tests, you should contact an endocrinologist and start treatment, moreover, observing the recommended terms for monitoring treatment for timely correction and maximum compensation of the disease.

6. Which diseases of the thyroid gland can be vaccinated and which ones can not?

As we found out, any thyroid disease in the stage of decompensation can cause a more severe course of coronovirus infection. To protect yourself from this infection or its severe course, vaccination is recommended for all diseases of the thyroid gland. Absolute contraindications for vaccination are only hypersensitivity to any components of the vaccine, severe allergic reactions in the past, pregnancy and lactation, age up to 18 years, acute infectious and non-infectious diseases, as well as exacerbations of chronic diseases.