Understanding thyroid disorders in adolescence
Thyroid problems have become a disturbingly common issue among adolescents. Whether we choose to blame it on the fast food culture or an equally fast lifestyle, the real issue lies in finding a long-term solution to thyroid problems. Let’s explore the types of thyroid issues being faced by teenagers and the thyroidtreatment options that are available.
Types of thyroid disorders
Hyperthyroidism
A disorder in which the thyroid gland over produces hormones. More prevalent in girls than in boys, hyperthyroidism leads to an increased heart rate, irregular periods, and high blood pressure. More noticeable symptoms include sudden weight loss, excess sweating, irritability, nervousness, and hair loss.
Hyperthyroidism is most commonly caused due to Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder. Other causes of this thyroid problem include presence of tumours in the ovaries, an excess of iodine in the diet and inflammation of the thyroid gland.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition which reflects an underactive thyroid gland. Teenagers with a family history of diabetes are more prone to this thyroid disorder. Symptoms include weight gain, slow metabolism, constant fatigue, constipation, brittle hair and nails and frequent muscle pain.
Hypothyroidism in adolescents is mainly caused by Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis – an autoimmune disorder in which the body mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. Other causes of this disorder include a history of genetic conditions such as Type 1 diabetes, Down Syndrome and even excess exposure to pesticides and chemicals.
What can one do?
- Get professional help
Trying to tackle a suspect thyroid problem at home can worsen the situation. Approach a doctor and get the necessary blood tests to find out the type of thyroid disorder your teen is suffering from. Follow through with the prescribed medication.
- Follow a balanced diet
The biggest challenge that most parents of teenagers face. Getting your child to follow a healthy diet can prove to be a tall task. Replace biscuits with healthy alternatives such as khakra. Throw out the soft drinks, packaged juices and salty snacks. Replace white bread and rice with the brown variety. Small changes can have a huge impact on the long run.
- Allow for rest and fun
Adolescents these days are more stressed than ever. With the ever-present pressure to succeed, ambitious parents often sign up their children for many hobby classes in addition to their regular tuitions and studies. Cut down on activities your child does not enjoy and allow him/her sufficient time each week to indulge in things they truly want to. Remember, high stress levels cause thyroid problems.
- Be patient and calm
Don’t panic if your child is diagnosed with a thyroid issue or a related medical condition such asdepression or ovarian cysts. It may be difficult and stressful for you as a parent, but it is even more trying for your child. Don’t let your child see you upset. Be supportive as much as possible in the healing process. Never blame your child upfront or rebuke him/her for leading a bad lifestyle. Remember that teenagers, these days,face an increasinglystressful and competitive world.
Homeopathy and thyroid disorders
Conventional thyroid treatment methods often involve lifelong medication and sometimes a painful operation. Homeopathy offers holistic healing for all kinds of thyroid problems with minimal side effects. This makes homeopathic medicine a popular alternative for concerned parents of adolescents with thyroid disorders.
Homeopathy does not merely focus on the symptoms of thyroid disorders, but seeks to discover and solve the root cause of the problem. The root cause could vary from genetic factors to lifestyle, stress, other medications, and an improper dietary pattern. Moreover, our body faces constant attack from toxins in the air, in our food and water. These toxins damage our internal systems and often lead to autoimmune disorders. These autoimmune disorders attack the thyroid gland and either cause it to slow down or speed up; both of which are harmful to us.
Homeopathy seeks to heal by reactivating the body’s natural immune system so it can fight off any further infection. It stimulates the thyroid gland to secrete its hormone and thereby boost body metabolism to optimum levels of function. A healthy metabolism is a crucial aspect of development for both adolescent boys and girls. Above all, homeopathic medicine is safe and has no side effects. If your teenager is showing signs of thyroid disorder, do consult your nearest homeopathic doctor to get permanent relief and lasting results in thyroid treatment.
