Thyroid – Management
- Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
- Thyroid Hormone Replacement: Daily dose of levothyroxine (synthetic T4) is the standard treatment.
- Regular Monitoring: Check TSH and free T4 levels periodically to adjust dosage.
- Medication Adherence: Take medication consistently, ideally on an empty stomach for better absorption.
- Lifestyle Support: Encourage balanced diet and exercise to manage weight and fatigue.
- Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
- Antithyroid Medications: Drugs like methimazole or propylthiouracil (PTU) reduce hormone production.
- Radioactive Iodine Therapy: Destroys overactive thyroid tissue; often leads to hypothyroidism, requiring lifelong hormone replacement.
- Beta-Blockers: Manage symptoms like rapid heart rate and tremors.
- Surgery: Thyroidectomy may be considered in severe or resistant cases.
- Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders
- Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Treated as hypothyroidism with hormone replacement.
- Graves’ Disease: Managed with antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, or surgery.
- Nutritional and Lifestyle Support
- Iodine Balance: Ensure appropriate iodine intake—neither deficient nor excessive.
- Avoid Goitrogens: Limit foods like soy and cruciferous vegetables in large amounts for thyroid-sensitive individuals.
- Stress Management: Reduce stress, as it can influence thyroid function.
- Regular Check-ups
- Annual Screening: Especially important for high-risk groups (e.g., women, elderly, pregnant women).
- Symptom Monitoring: Watch for changes in weight, energy, mood, and heart rate.
Effective management ensures stable thyroid function and prevents complications.