How Long Does It Take Thyroid Medication To Work?

In this article

• How to treat hypothyroidism?

• How long does it take for thyroid medication to work?

• Tips for taking your thyroid medication

• What to do if you think your medication is not working

Hypothyroidism is the condition in which your thyroid gland is underactive and does not produce enough thyroid hormones. As part of the endocrine system, the thyroid gland helps to regulate the body’s metabolism. When your thyroid hormone production drops, your body processes slow down and change, affecting every system in your body. Untreated hypothyroidism puts patients at risk for other ailments, such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and infertility.

Taking medication to replace low thyroid hormone levels is the primary way to treat an underactive thyroid. Although it is not a cure, it replaces the thyroid hormones that your thyroid is not making and prevents secondary health issues from arising. 

People often seek help for their hypothyroidism when they experience symptoms like fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, and depression. These symptoms can be frustrating and unpleasant (to say the least), so it comes as no surprise that many people hope their thyroid medication will help right away. 

While many people get relief soon after starting medication, others need more time before seeing an improvement.  

How to treat hypothyroidism?

Before you start medication, take an at-home thyroid blood test to understand your thyroid function. Your doctor will use your test results to determine if you have an underactive thyroid, along with your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.

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There are several different kinds of thyroid hormone replacement medication. Your doctor will partner with you to determine the right brand and dose based on your test results, age, health, weight, and symptoms. Older adults and those with conditions like heart disease usually start on a smaller dose. 

Subclinical hypothyroidism

Subclinical hypothyroidism is the condition in which your thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels are elevated, but your T4 (thyroxine) levels are still normal. People with subclinical hypothyroidism may or may not have symptoms. 

There is no clear guideline when it comes to treating subclinical hypothyroidism with medication or not. Therefore, the decision to start medication is usually between you and your thyroid doctor.

How long does it take for thyroid medication to work?

The time it takes for the medication to work is unique to each person. 

Once you start your medication, it can take a few weeks to start noticing an improvement in your symptoms. However, some people see their symptoms get better almost right after starting. 

To see how your body responds to thyroid medication, you should retest your thyroid function about six weeks after starting or changing your prescription. Depending on your symptoms and lab results, your doctor may make changes to your dose. For example, if you are still having symptoms, you may need a higher dose of medication.

Sometimes, it can take several dosage changes, and even in medication, to get the results you need. However, once you find the right combination, it’s advantageous to stick with it unless something changes or your symptoms return. 

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Tips for taking your thyroid medication

There are several things you need to be mindful of when it comes to taking your thyroid medication.

Do not change brands

Once you find the correct dose and medication, you will want to stick with it. People often find there are subtle differences in formulations that can have some not-so-subtle effects. Therefore, you will not want to switch between the generic and brand names of your thyroid medication.

Take your medication at the same time each day.

It’s important to follow a schedule when taking your thyroid medication. Generally, it is best to take your thyroid medicine on an empty stomach for at least 30 minutes before putting anything in your stomach. 

Most people take their thyroid medication first thing in the morning. However, you should take your thyroid medication at least an hour before eating or drinking. So if you prefer your morning coffee or tea right away, it may be best to take your medicine at night. 

Be cautious with other medications

Some medications and supplements can interfere with how your body absorbs thyroid medication. Ensure your thyroid doctor knows everything you are taking (including vitamins) so you know when to take your thyroid pill. 

Don’t miss a dose

If you forget to take your thyroid medication, take it as soon as you remember. Also, if you need to skip a dose for surgery or another reason, make sure to check with your doctor first. You are often allowed to take your thyroid medication before surgical procedures as long as you inform your health care team.

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What to do if thyroid medication doesn’t seem to work

Remember, it can take a few weeks for your thyroid medication to start working when you begin treatment. However, suppose you have been on medication for a few months and have not seen improvement. In that case, it is high time to meet with your thyroid doctor. 

Sometimes, it may be as simple as needing your dose to be tweaked. Other times, it may be an issue where your body is not responding to the type of medication you are taking. 

Suppose your thyroid blood tests indicate stable levels, but you still experience thyroid-related symptoms. In that case, you may need a different type of thyroid medication or dose. However, your doctor may explore other causes of your symptoms and talk to you about making lifestyle adjustments.  

Are you struggling with finding the right dose or medication for you? Meet with a Paloma Health thyroid doctor to explore the best strategies for optimizing your thyroid function and reclaiming your health. 

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Hypothyroidism Treatment – How Underactive Thyroid Is Treated

Written by Stephanie Watson

• Starting on Thyroid Hormone Treatment
• How to Take Your Medicine
• When Your Symptoms Don’t Go Away
• Side Effects
• Drugs That Interact With Thyroid Medicine
• Stick With Treatment
• More

Medicine that boosts your levels of thyroid hormone is an easy way to treat your hypothyroidism. It’s not a cure, but it can keep your condition under control for the rest of your life.

The most common treatment is levothyroxine (Levoxyl, Synthroid, Tirosint, Unithroid, Unithroid Direct), a man-made version of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It acts just like the hormone your thyroid gland normally makes. The right dose can make you feel a lot better.

Your doctor will decide how much to give you based on your:

• Age
• Health
• Thyroid hormone levels
• Weight

If you’re older, or you have heart disease, you’ll probably start on a small dose. Your doctor will slowly raise the amount over time until you see an effect.

About 6 weeks after you start taking the medicine, you’ll go back to your doctor for a blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels. Depending on what the results are, your dosage may change.

Once your levels are stable, you’ll see your doctor for a blood test every 6 months to a year.

To make sure your hypothyroidism stays under control:

Stick with the same brand. Different types of thyroid hormone medicine may contain slightly different doses. That could mess with your hormone levels.

Follow a schedule. Take your medicine at the same time each day. Aim for about an hour before a meal or at bedtime. Don’t take it when you eat. Food, as well as some supplements, such as calcium, can affect the way your body uses it.

Don’t skip doses. If you miss one, take it as soon as you remember. You can take two pills in one day if you need to.

Follow instructions carefully. Don’t stop taking your medicine without first checking with your doctor.

You should start to feel better a few days after you begin taking medicine. But it may take a few months for your thyroid hormone levels to get back to normal.

If your levels get better, but you still have symptoms like fatigue and weight gain, your doctor may need to change your treatment.

The main risk of thyroid medicine is if you take too much of it, you can get symptoms of an overactive thyroid, like:

• Fast heartbeat
• Sensitivity to heat
• Hunger
• Nervousness and anxiety
• Shakiness
• Sweating
• Thin skin and brittle hair
• Tiredness
• Trouble sleeping
• Weight loss

If you have any of these, see your doctor for a blood test. They may need to lower your dose.

Some medicines can affect the way your thyroid drug works, including:

• Anti-seizure medicines like carbamazepine (Tegretol) and phenytoin sodium (Dilantin)
• Birth control pills and estrogen
• Cancer drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors
• Medicines for depression, like sertraline (Zoloft)
• Testosterone

If you take one of these meds, talk to your doctor about how you should time taking your other medications based on when you take your thyroid medication.

You’ll need to keep taking thyroid medicine throughout your life to control your hormone levels. Keep up with your treatment and you’ll see results. 

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Treatment of the thyroid gland: methods and preparations

Contents

• 1 How to treat the thyroid gland: advice from doctors
  • 1. 1 Learn what the thyroid gland is
    • 1.1.1 The thyroid gland is …

    90 005 1.1.2 Why treatment is needed thyroid gland?

    • 1.1.3 What methods and drugs are used to treat the thyroid gland?
  • 1.2 Related videos:
  • 1.3 Major thyroid problems
    • 1.3.1 Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
    • 1.3.2 Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
    • 1.3.3 Thyroid and pregnancy
    • 1.3.4 Thyroid cancer
  • 1.4 Treatment of the thyroid gland: restoration of health using modern methods
    • 1.4.1 Methods of treatment:
    • 1.4.2 Modern drugs:
    • 1.4.3 Pros and cons:
    • 1.4.4 Specialist consultation:
  • 1.5 Radioactive iodine is an effective treatment for the thyroid gland
    • 1.5.1 What is radioactive iodine?
    • 1.5.2 How does radioactive iodine treatment work?
    • 1.5.3 What are the benefits of radioactive iodine treatment?
    • 1.5.4 How can we help with radioactive iodine treatment?
  • 1. 6 Surgical treatment of the thyroid gland
  • 1.7 Preparations for the normalization of the thyroid gland
    • 1.7.1 L-thyroxine
    • 1.7.2 Metifort
    • 1.7.3 Iodine balance
  • 1.8 Treatment of follicular thyroid cancer
    • 1.8.1 What is follicular thyroid cancer
    • 1.8 .2 Methods of treatment
    • 1.8.3 Preparations
    • 1.8. 4 Cost of treatment
  • 1.9 Treatment of papillary thyroid cancer
    • 1.9.1 What is papillary thyroid cancer?
    • 1.9.2 What are the treatments for papillary thyroid cancer?
    • 1.9.3 Which drug should I choose to treat papillary thyroid cancer?
  • 1.10 Combination approach to thyroid care: an effective solution to problems
    • 1.10.1 When is a combination approach needed?
    • 1.10.2 What is a combined approach?
    • 1.10.3 Benefits of the combination approach
    • 1.10.4 Which drugs are used in combination therapy?
    • 1. 10.5 Choose a reliable combination clinic
  • 1.11 Thyroid care: important tips for patients
    • 1.11.1 1. Follow your doctor’s recommendations
    • 1.11.2 2. Take your medication regularly
    • 1.11.3 3. Eat right
    • 1.11.4 4. Avoid stressful situations
    • 1.11.5 5. Lead a healthy lifestyle
  • 1.12 Question-answer:
    • • 1.12.0.1 What methods of treatment of the thyroid gland are there?
      • 1.12.0.2 What drugs are used in the treatment of the thyroid gland?
      • 1.12.0.3 How long does thyroid treatment last?
      • 1.12.0.4 What are the possible side effects of thyroid medication?
      • 1.12.0.5 How does thyroid treatment affect the quality of life?
      • 1.12.0.6 What measures can be taken to prevent thyroid disease?

Learn about thyroid care – causes, symptoms, and treatments. Tips for the prevention and improvement of the work of the gland. Detailed information from leading experts in the field of endocrinology.

The thyroid gland is one of the most important organs of the endocrine system, which is responsible for many processes in the body. However, many people face problems related to its functioning. In such cases, it is necessary to consult a specialist and start treatment using effective methods and drugs.

One of the main methods of treatment is drug therapy. For example, for hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), hormonal drugs are used to help maintain optimal levels of hormones in the body. In hyperthyroidism (increased function), drugs are used that reduce the amount of thyroid hormones.

Another method of treatment is conservative therapy with iodine. This may be taking iodine-containing drugs or the use of iodized solutions that are applied to the skin. Iodine helps to normalize the functioning of the thyroid gland, strengthens it and increases its protective properties.

It is important to understand that self-medication in case of thyroid problems can be hazardous to health.

In addition to drug therapy and the use of iodine, there are other treatments such as alternative medicine, diet therapy and surgery. However, to determine the optimal method of treatment, it is necessary to consult an endocrinologist or therapist.

Our clinic offers all necessary services for the treatment of thyroid disorders. Doctors with many years of experience, modern equipment and effective methods of treatment will help you forget about thyroid problems and enjoy a full life!

Learn about the thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is…

…an iron organ located in the neck that produces the hormones necessary for the proper functioning of the body. The thyroid gland plays an important role in the regulation of metabolism, growth and development of the body.

Yes, often

50%

Yes, sometimes

0%

No

50%

Why do I need thyroid treatment?

Various diseases can lead to malfunction of the thyroid gland, which can lead to serious consequences, such as an increase or decrease in the gland, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disorders, etc. Treatment of the thyroid gland is necessary to restore the proper functioning of the organ and prevent complications .

What methods and drugs are used to treat the thyroid gland?

• Drug therapy: Prescribing drugs to regulate hormone levels in the body.
• Radioablation: A procedure in which radioactive iodine is injected into the body to reduce the size of the thyroid gland or destroy its particles.
• Surgery: Removal of part or all of the thyroid gland when the organ no longer functions and causes pain or discomfort.

Consultation with an endocrinologist and examination of the thyroid gland are the first steps towards complete treatment. Entrust your health to professionals and do not delay treatment.

Related videos:

Major thyroid problems

Thyroid deficiency (hypothyroidism)

Hypothyroidism is a disease associated with insufficient thyroid hormones. Patients suffering from hypothyroidism often experience swelling, weight gain, depression, and fatigue.

Excess thyroid (hyperthyroidism)

Hyperthyroidism is a disease associated with an excess of thyroid hormones. Patients suffering from hyperthyroidism experience heart problems, excessive sweating, and frequent muscle cramps.

Thyroid and pregnancy

Thyroid and pregnancy is a topic that is especially important for women. Insufficiency or excess of thyroid hormones can be dangerous for both mother and child. Proper treatment is important in order to avoid problems during pregnancy and childbirth.

Thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer is a tumor that can occur in the tissues of the thyroid gland. Symptoms can vary, including knots in the neck, voice changes, and difficulty breathing. Thyroid cancer is usually successfully treated if detected early.

Treatment of the thyroid gland: restoring health using modern methods

Methods of treatment:

Drug therapy – the use of special drugs to stimulate the thyroid gland or reduce it. Medications can be prescribed alone or in combination with other treatments.

Radioisotope therapy is a treatment that uses radioactive iodine to kill hormone-producing thyroid cells. This method is effective only in some cases and is not suitable for women during pregnancy and lactation.

Surgery – removal of a partial or complete gland, usually used when the tumor in the gland has reached a critical size or thyroid cancer is detected.

Modern preparations:

L-thyroxine is a synthetic analogue of thyroid hormone. It is prescribed for diseases associated with a decrease in the level of hormones in the body.

Methimazole is a drug that reduces the secretion of the thyroid gland. It is prescribed for diseases associated with increased thyroid function.

Potassium iodide is a preparation containing iodine necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. It is prescribed as a prophylactic for iodine deficiency in the body.

Pros and cons:

• Drug therapy – plus: availability and effectiveness, minus: possibility of side effects;
• Radioisotope therapy – plus: high efficiency, minus: inability to use for pregnant and nursing women;
• Surgical intervention – plus: radical cure, minus: possibility of complications after surgery.

Consultation of a specialist:

If symptoms of thyroid disease appear, it is necessary to contact an endocrinologist for a comprehensive examination and prescribing the optimal method of treatment.

Radioactive iodine is an effective treatment for the thyroid gland

What is radioactive iodine?

Radioactive iodine is an isotope of iodine that is used medically to treat thyroid disorders. It has the ability to destroy thyroid cells.

How does radioactive iodine treatment work?

To start treatment, it is necessary to conduct an examination and determine the dose of radioactive iodine for a particular patient. Then radioactive iodine is injected intravenously into the patient, and it enters the thyroid tissue on its own and destroys them. The procedure lasts several hours, after which the patient can return to normal life.

What are the benefits of radioactive iodine treatment?

• Efficiency – radioactive iodine destroys cells of disseminated toxic goiter and thyroid cancer.
• Simplicity and safety of the procedure – patients do not experience pain and do not need hospitalization.
• Radioactive iodine dose adjustment – the dosage is selected strictly individually for each patient.

How can we help with radioactive iodine treatment?

Our center provides radioactive iodine treatment in a comfortable environment. Our endocrinologists have extensive experience in this area and will select the optimal dose for each patient. We guarantee timely and high-quality treatment.

Thyroid surgery

If conservative treatments fail, surgery may be the only way to get rid of thyroid disease. This procedure may be recommended in cases where the tumor is too large or the node is highly likely to be malignant.

Thyroid surgery is performed under general anesthesia and may involve removal of part of the gland or its complete extirpation. Recovery from surgery can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the type of surgery and the patient’s health.

If you’re worried about the negative effects of surgery, don’t worry! Modern methods and technologies allow operations to be performed less traumatic and safer than ever before. In addition, as with any operation, before the surgical treatment of the thyroid gland, the patient undergoes the necessary studies and explains in detail the procedure and its possible risks.

• If you are facing a difficult case of thyroid disease, don’t despair! Surgery may be an exceptional option in your case.
• Use only qualified, experienced and reputable technicians. This is the only way you can be sure that the operation will be carried out safely and with a high level of efficiency.
• It is important to know that the decision to perform thyroid surgery should only be made after careful examination and consultation with a specialist.

Preparations for the normalization of the thyroid gland

L-thyroxine

L-thyroxine is a hormonal drug used to treat hypothyroidism. It contains synthetic thyroid hormone, which ensures the start of metabolic processes in the body and increase energy levels.

L-thyroxine allows you to restore the normal function of the thyroid gland and lead to positive changes in the external and internal state. This drug is especially effective in preventing early aging and maintaining the overall tone of the body.

Metifort

Metifort is a biologically active component that increases the resistance of the thyroid gland to various stress factors and stimulates its work. Among the main advantages of the drug is an increase in resistance to infectious diseases, the restoration of normal functional activity and the acceleration of metabolic processes in the body.

Metifort is prescribed for patients suffering from hypothyroidism, demiodosis and other disorders of the thyroid gland.

Iodbalance

Iodbalance is a complex drug that ensures the normalization of the thyroid gland and any disorders associated with iodine deficiency. It contains valuable trace elements and vitamins that strengthen the immune system and optimize metabolic processes in the body.

Iodbalance is prescribed for patients suffering from diffuse toxic goiter, endemic goiter and other non-specific diseases. It allows not only to restore the functioning of the thyroid gland, but also to strengthen the overall health of the body.

Treatment of follicular thyroid cancer

What is follicular thyroid cancer

Follicular thyroid cancer is a malignant neoplasm that arises from the follicular cells of the thyroid gland. Often it is formed against the background of benign formations and does not always show vivid clinical symptoms, which makes it difficult to diagnose and treat it in a timely manner.

Treatment options

Follicular thyroid cancer is treated with surgery combined with radioactive iodine and chemotherapy. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor followed by radioiodine therapy, which is aimed at destroying the remaining malignant cells in the body.

Drugs

Radioactive iodine (I-131) and chemotherapy drugs, such as cytostatics – doxorubicin, cisplatin, vinblastine, etc. are used as drugs. The selection of drugs for treatment is made individually, depending on the stage of the disease, the general condition of the patient and other factors.

Cost of treatment

The cost of treatment for follicular thyroid cancer depends on the extent of the tumor, the methods of treatment, the drugs used and other factors. The final amount can be clarified only after consulting a doctor and conducting all the necessary examinations.

Treatment of papillary thyroid cancer

What is papillary thyroid cancer?

Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common type of thyroid cancer and occurs in people of all ages. It is characterized by the formation of small nodules in the gland, which can spread to other parts of the body.

What are the treatments for papillary thyroid cancer?

There are various treatments for papillary thyroid cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

• Surgery is the primary treatment for papillary thyroid cancer and usually involves removal of the thyroid gland.
• Radiation therapy is used to kill cancer cells in the remaining tissue after surgery.
• Chemotherapy is used to kill cancer cells that may have spread to other parts of the body.

Which drug to choose for the treatment of papillary thyroid cancer?

Various drugs can be used to treat papillary thyroid cancer, which are selected individually depending on the stage and nature of the disease. Among them may be:

1. Levothyroxine is a drug that is used to replace the synthesis of thyroid hormones that the pituitary gland does not produce, which is often a concomitant disease of the thyroid gland.
2. Lenvatinib is a drug used to treat metastatic thyroid cancer. It fights the reproduction of cancer cells and allows you to suppress the growth of the tumor.
3. Iodine-131 Therapy is an additional treatment for papillary thyroid cancer that is used after surgery. It consists in taking radioactive iodine, which allows you to kill the remaining cancer cells in the gland.

Combination approach to thyroid care: an effective solution to problems

When is a combination approach needed?

The thyroid gland is the most important organ in our body that controls metabolism, weight management and body temperature. But there are various problems associated with the work of the gland. Including it can be hyperthyroidism, and hypothyroidism, and tumors, and other disorders. In such cases, the use of a combined approach is one of the most effective solutions.

What is a combined approach?

Combination thyroid treatment means the use of two or more treatments together. It can be drug treatment, and surgery, and radioactive treatment, and other methods.

Benefits of a combination approach

Combining different thyroid treatments can increase the effectiveness of treatment and reduce the risk of complications. In addition, each patient has his own characteristics and needs, so only a combined approach allows you to choose an individual approach to treatment for each individual patient.

Which drugs are used in combination therapy?

• Thyroid hormones – preparations containing hormones that help restore normal levels of hormones in the body when there are disorders;
• Antithyroid drugs – drugs that suppress thyroid function and are used in hyperthyroidism;
• Iodine is a trace element that is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland;
• Other drugs, such as analgesics, cardiovascular drugs, and others, can be used in combination with the main drugs to achieve a better treatment result.

Choose a reliable clinic for combined treatment

In order to receive quality thyroid treatment, you need to choose a reliable clinic and trusted specialists. In our clinic, we offer a combination treatment of this problem at a high level. We adhere to strict protocols and take into account the individual characteristics of each patient. Contact us and get an effective and safe thyroid treatment.

Thyroid care: important tips for patients

1. Follow your doctor’s advice

When choosing a thyroid gland treatment, you should only consult a specialist and follow his recommendations. Internet sources of information should not replace medical advice.

2. Take your medicines regularly

If you are taking medicines, take them exactly as directed by your doctor. Irregular intake can lead to poor health.

3. Eat right

Proper nutrition is an important component of thyroid care. Fatty, fried and salty foods, as well as foods containing a large amount of iodine, should be excluded from the diet.

4. Avoid stressful situations

Stress can negatively affect the functioning of the thyroid gland, so it is necessary to avoid stressful situations and find ways to get around them.

5. Lead a healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is the first step towards a healthy thyroid gland. Regular physical activity, avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol are all important for maintaining good health.

Preparations for the treatment of the thyroid gland Name of the drug Form of release Method of administration

Consult your doctor before taking medication and strictly follow the instructions for use.

Q&A:

What are the treatments for the thyroid gland?

There are several treatments for thyroid, including drug therapy, surgery, radioactive iodine, X-ray therapy, and others.

What medications are used to treat thyroid?

The drugs used to treat the thyroid gland depend on the type of disease. For example, treatment for an overactive thyroid may include drugs that reduce its activity, and thyroid replacement hormones may be prescribed to treat hypofunction.

How long does thyroid treatment last?

The duration of thyroid treatment may vary depending on the type of disease and the method of treatment. For example, drug treatment may last several months, and radioactive iodine may require observation for several weeks.

What side effects can occur during thyroid treatment?

Undesirable effects of thyroid medication may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, weight changes, hair loss, voice changes, etc.

How does thyroid treatment affect the quality of life?

Thyroid treatment can have a significant impact on a patient’s quality of life, including mood changes, decreased energy, weight changes, and others. However, with proper treatment, most patients continue to lead a full life.

What measures can be taken to prevent thyroid disease?

A healthy diet with moderate iodine intake, regular multivitamin intake, avoidance of nicotine and alcohol, weight control, and regular medication if needed are recommended for the prevention of thyroid disease.

Thyroid gland – keep under control

Important hormones

The main task of the thyroid gland – is the production of hormones: thyroxine – T4 (tetraiodothyronine) and T3 (triiodothyronine). It is these hormones that throughout life support the work of the brain, heart, muscles, regulate the metabolism in the body. So our mental abilities, body weight, physical activity, sexual development, skeletal bone strength, skin and hair condition, sleep and appetite depend on the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland works correctly – a person is alert, active, calm, feels good and looks good. There are violations in its activity – the symptoms can be very different: for example, let’s take body weight. With increased production of thyroid hormones, a person can eat as much as he wants, but will lose weight. And with a reduced function, you can eat nothing at all, but gain weight, because the so-called mucous edema develops in the body. And the matter will not be at all in nutrition, but in the thyroid gland.

Essential iodine

Various factors affect how the thyroid gland functions: even stress and insomnia can disrupt the production of its hormones. But still, most of all, for normal functioning of the thyroid gland, iodine is needed, it is from it that thyroid hormones consist of 65%. Our body cannot produce this microelement on its own, we get it only from the outside – from food, water or medicines. And if there is little iodine in the diet, then, therefore, the thyroid gland will not be able to produce the required amount of hormones. In ordinary life, of course, this is also bad, but not yet so critical, but during pregnancy, iodine deficiency can cause real problems. After all, now this trace element is needed not only by a woman, but also by her child. Both the very bearing of the baby and his health will be under threat: after all, as mentioned above, the thyroid gland affects all organs and systems.

Development of the baby

Let’s start with the fact that the baby is completely dependent on the mother’s thyroid gland. In the unborn child, the thyroid gland, although it begins to form already at the 4–5th week of pregnancy, but it begins to function, that is, it begins to produce hormones only at 12 weeks, and it is capable of finally working at full strength by the 16–17th week. pregnancy. Until that time, the development of the child and the laying of all his organs and systems are “under the protection” of the mother’s thyroid gland. And if a woman has little iodine, then this means that some system or organ of the baby may suffer. And even when the child’s own thyroid gland is formed and starts working, she can still take iodine only from the mother’s body.

Iodine deficiency most strongly affects intellectual development, even if a child is born physically healthy, his mental abilities may be lower than those of his peers.

In slow motion

Lack of iodine leads to the development of hypothyroidism – reduced production of thyroid hormones , which means that energy is produced less intensively and all processes in the body slow down. At first, the woman feels weak, she constantly wants to sleep. Hair fades, splits and falls out, nails exfoliate and break. There is excess weight, constipation, a feeling of chilliness. With developed hypothyroidism, the face becomes puffy, the eyelids swell, dry skin flakes and sometimes even turns slightly yellow. Due to swelling of the vocal cords, the voice may become lower. Many of these symptoms of hypothyroidism are similar to the usual “troubles” of pregnancy (especially weakness, drowsiness, excess weight, constipation), but if they are significantly pronounced, there is a reason for examining the thyroid gland. So if the expectant mother is tired, looks bad, she does not care what is happening around, do not blame everything on pregnancy or beriberi. Perhaps there are problems with the thyroid gland.

Change of mood

With the onset of pregnancy, when the thyroid gland begins to work for two, it enlarges a little and produces a little more hormones. This is a common occurrence, and after pregnancy everything will return to normal. But there are women in whom, for some reason, the thyroid gland begins to produce too many hormones and without the influence of pregnancy, hyperthyroidism (or thyrotoxicosis) occurs. Then other symptoms appear – imbalance, tearfulness, agitation, increased appetite, slight trembling in the hands, sleep disturbances. The body temperature can rise to small values ​​for no reason, the head often hurts, the heart beats faster, and blood pressure rises. If such symptoms appear, especially if there is still vomiting that seems to be normal for pregnant women with significant weight loss, an examination of the thyroid gland is necessary.

Going to the doctor

If the expectant mother has not been to an endocrinologist before, now is the time to visit this specialist and, possibly, do a blood test to determine the level of thyroid hormones.

Even if everything is in order with the thyroid gland, the doctor will still recommend taking either a separate medicine with iodine or a vitamin complex. The fact is that in Russia, in most regions, both water and food contain little iodine, so that it does not come with enough food. Moreover, if before pregnancy the daily dose of iodine was 150 mcg, now the expectant mother should take 200 mcg already. But still, before taking even harmless vitamins with iodine, it is better to check the level of thyroid hormones.

Also, in order to prevent iodine deficiency, you can salt your food with iodized salt (although salt itself is not healthy). A lot of iodine is found in sea fish, seaweed, squid, persimmon, feijoa, dates, dried figs, dairy products and meat.

Pay attention to the thyroid gland, and it will definitely help you look and feel good!

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