Hashimoto's Unmasked: A Roadmap to Healing

Hashimoto's disease, also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is considered an autoimmune disorder. Our current understanding of autoimmunity is that our immune system is confused and begins to see the body's own cells as threats that need to be eliminated, leading to chronic inflammation, tissue damage, and dysfunction of the affected organ or system. In Hashimoto’s the immune system mistakenly targets the thyroid gland. A gland is an organ that makes hormones that are released directly into the blood and travel to tissues and organs all over the body. The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. Although small in size, it plays a significant role in regulating the body's metabolism and overall health.

The thyroid gland produces two hormones - triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which control the rate at which cells in the body use energy. Symptoms of Hashimoto's thyroiditis may fluctuate within a hypo and hyperthyroid state and damage to the thyroid gland can cause fluctuations in hormone levels. In some Hashimoto thyroiditis cases, patients may experience symptoms of both hypo and hyperthyroidism at the same time.

Some common symptoms of Hashimoto's thyroiditis include:

• Fatigue and weakness

• Weight gaining or difficulty losing weight

• Cold and/or heat intolerance

• Constipation

• Dry skin and hair

• Hair loss or thinning hair

• Depression or low mood

• Muscle aches and stiffness

• Joint pain and stiffness

• Menstrual irregularities in women

• Hoarseness or difficulty speaking

• Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)

• Slow or rapid heart rate

• Tremors

• Irritability

• Anxiety.

It is important to note that some people with Hashimoto's thyroiditis may have no symptoms or very mild symptoms, while others may have more severe symptoms.

As a naturopathic physician I view health a bit differently. Our health is a complex paradigm involving chemical, emotional, physical and microbial triggers. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is often caused by an underlying imbalance in the body's immune system, which can be triggered by a variety of factors such as stress, diet, and environmental toxins. The health of the gut and liver plays an especially important role in the development of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, as up to 80% of the body's immune system is located in the gut. The first step in treating Hashimoto's thyroiditis is to identify and address any underlying factors that may be contributing to the autoimmune response. This involves a thorough evaluation of the patient's diet, stress levels, sleep habits, and exposure to environmental toxins, past infections and trauma. Using appropriate tests, I find and eliminate food allergens and sensitivities and other triggering factors.

In my clinical practice, after a detailed history, lab and imaging work up (if indicated), I often recommend naturally derived glandular thyroid hormone replacement, as well as herbs, nutraceuticals, homeopathics, and pharmaceutical or compounded medications to support thyroid function, reduce inflammation, and modulate the immune system. In addition to these treatments, I also encourage lifestyle modifications to improve overall health and reduce stress levels. By addressing underlying factors such as diet, stress, stealth infections, and environmental toxins, and using natural therapies to support immune function and reduce inflammation, my goal is to restore balance to the body and improve overall health and well-being.

It is important to note that some of these symptoms listed in this blog can also be caused by other medical conditions. An accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment is vital to this condition.