#Hashimoto's thyroiditis treatment

[health-homeopathy]

Low Thyroid Treatment In Homeopathy

Homeopathy is emerging as a safe treatment forow thyroid problems. A high TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is the main sign that you have hypothyroidism. Your major thyroid hormones, T3 and T4, maybe low or normal. But if your TSH is high you have hypothyroid or a low thyroid problem.

Start homeopathic treatment for thyroid if you want to treat hypothyroidism in a natural and holistic way.

Homeopathic medicines have no side effects. Hence patients want to consult a good homeopathy doctor for low thyroid treatment. The trend is rising in Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Indore and several cities in India. People are experiencing the benefits of homeopathy treatment in thyroid hormone problems.

To book your appointment with Dr. Chintan Mehta call or Whats app +91 9869021226.

Start treatment for thyroid and other hormonal problems at Dr. Mehta’s Standard Homeopathy Clinic in Mumbai, India.

[britneyshakespeare]

well i didn’t get my paycheck in the mail but i did get a referral notice from my doctor saying that i can expect to see an endocrinologist... in SIX. FUCKING. MONTHS.

[healthcareproducts115]

Comprehensive Guide to Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Causes, Effective Treatments, and Long-Term Management

Introduction

Hashimoto Thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland, is increasingly recognized as a significant health concern, particularly in women. The condition leads to chronic inflammation of the thyroid, often resulting in hypothyroidism — a state where the thyroid is unable to produce sufficient hormones. Understanding Hashimoto Thyroiditis is crucial for effective management, as early detection and treatment can significantly improve quality of life.

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Understanding the Thyroid Gland

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What is Hashimoto Thyroiditis?

Hashimoto Thyroiditis, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to its gradual destruction. First identified by Dr. Hakaru Hashimoto in 1912, this condition has since become one of the most common causes of hypothyroidism worldwide. As the immune system continually assaults the thyroid, it becomes unable to produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones, leading to a host of metabolic disturbances.

Causes of Hashimoto Thyroiditis

The exact cause of Hashimoto Thyroiditis remains elusive, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors is believed to contribute to its development. A genetic predisposition is often evident, with the disease frequently running in families. Environmental triggers, such as excessive iodine intake, viral infections, and exposure to radiation, have also been implicated. Hormonal changes, particularly in women, may exacerbate the condition, explaining why it is more prevalent among females. Central to the disease is autoimmune dysfunction, where the immune system erroneously identifies thyroid cells as foreign and mounts an attack against them.

Risk Factors Associated with Hashimoto Thyroiditis

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing Hashimoto Thyroiditis. Women, particularly those between the ages of 30 and 50, are at higher risk, with the condition being up to ten times more common in women than men. A family history of thyroid disease or other autoimmune disorders, such as type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, also heightens the risk. Additionally, excessive iodine consumption, either through diet or supplements, can trigger the onset of the disease in susceptible individuals.

Symptoms and Signs of Hashimoto Thyroiditis

Hashimoto Thyroiditis often progresses insidiously, with symptoms developing gradually over months or even years. Early on, patients may notice subtle signs such as fatigue, weight gain, or sensitivity to cold. As the disease advances, more pronounced symptoms emerge, including dry skin, hair loss, muscle weakness, and depression. In some cases, the thyroid gland may enlarge, forming a goiter, which can cause discomfort and difficulty swallowing. If left untreated, Hashimoto’s can lead to severe complications such as heart disease, infertility, and myxedema coma, a life-threatening condition.

Diagnosis of Hashimoto Thyroiditis

Diagnosing Hashimoto Thyroiditis involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. During a physical examination, a doctor may detect an enlarged thyroid or observe symptoms indicative of hypothyroidism. Blood tests are crucial, particularly those measuring thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, free T4, and the presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb), which are often elevated in Hashimoto’s patients. In some cases, an ultrasound may be performed to assess the size and structure of the thyroid gland, and a biopsy may be recommended to rule out other conditions.

Impact on Overall Health

The effects of Hashimoto Thyroiditis extend beyond the thyroid, impacting various aspects of health. Metabolically, the slowed production of thyroid hormones can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and a decreased ability to tolerate cold. Mentally, patients often experience depression, memory problems, and a general sense of mental fog. Furthermore, Hashimoto’s is associated with an increased risk of developing other autoimmune conditions, such as celiac disease and lupus. Without appropriate treatment, the long-term consequences can be severe, affecting cardiovascular health, reproductive function, and overall well-being.

Conventional Treatment Options

The cornerstone of treatment for Hashimoto Thyroiditis is hormone replacement therapy, typically with levothyroxine, a synthetic form of T4. This medication helps restore normal hormone levels, alleviating symptoms and preventing complications. Dosage is tailored to the individual, with regular monitoring to ensure optimal levels. In addition to hormone therapy, other medications may be prescribed to address specific symptoms, such as cholesterol-lowering drugs or antidepressants. Surgery is rarely required but may be considered in cases of large goiters or if thyroid cancer is suspected.

Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

Lifestyle modifications play a critical role in managing Hashimoto Thyroiditis. Diet, in particular, can influence the course of the disease. Foods rich in selenium, zinc, and vitamin D support thyroid health, while those high in sugar and processed ingredients should be limited. Gluten and dairy are often avoided, as they can exacerbate autoimmune responses in some individuals. Managing stress is equally important, as chronic stress can trigger or worsen symptoms. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, and regular physical activity are beneficial in maintaining balance and reducing the impact of the disease.

Integrative and Alternative Therapies

Beyond conventional medicine, many patients explore integrative and alternative therapies to support their thyroid health. Supplements such as selenium, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids have shown promise in supporting immune function and reducing inflammation. Acupuncture and chiropractic care are often sought to alleviate symptoms like fatigue and joint pain, while mind-body techniques such as mindfulness and biofeedback can help manage stress and improve overall well-being. While these therapies are not a substitute for medical treatment, they can complement traditional approaches and enhance quality of life.

Long-Term Management and Monitoring

Effective management of Hashimoto Thyroiditis requires ongoing monitoring and adjustment of treatment. Regular blood tests to check TSH and free T4 levels are essential, as these values guide medication adjustments. Over time, the dosage of thyroid hormone replacement may need to be modified based on changes in the patient’s condition, weight, or other health factors. Consistent monitoring ensures that symptoms remain controlled and reduces the risk of complications. Additionally, patients are encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay informed about their condition to better manage it over the long term.

Coping with Hashimoto Thyroiditis

Living with Hashimoto Thyroiditis presents both physical and emotional challenges. Many patients struggle with feelings of fatigue, frustration, and anxiety, particularly if the disease is not well-controlled. Support from family, friends, and healthcare providers is crucial in navigating these challenges. Joining a support group, either in-person or online, can provide valuable connections with others who understand the condition and offer practical advice.

[beautifullychaoticworld-blog]

How is your prolactinoma treatment going?

Ok, I guess... I'm still on the cabergoline pills... and my doctor doesn't want me to stop them even if my tumor has shrank to the point where it isn't visible on the MRI... But in summer 2022 on my latest MRI scan when they did a close up it showed that my tumor was still there but it was a tiny dot (it shrank a lot). In summer 2021 my tumor was not really visible on the MRI but when they did a close up this year it was still there which is a bit disappointing that it's not over yet... (been 7 years now on medication and initially they told me it could shrink in 5 years time so it's taking longer). My future MRIs have to show 0.00mm for the next 3 years so that I could stop the medication and be healthy again...

I still got weight fluctuation problems and I'm trying to lose weight but it's hard.

I haven't done any blood tests in months to check my prolactin and TSH levels but they should be normal... however my recent blood tests showed that lately I had high hemoglobin and insulin instead ugh... so doing diets to cut off sweet foods and eat more healthy... I think I could be hypothyroid too... 

My endocrinologist checked my eyesight and thyroid, she thought I could have Hashimoto which I doubt that my thyroid is that bad... just got rising TSH levels but I'm on thyroxine pills to normalize it. My eyesight is okay, I'm not going blind... I did echocardiograms too and my heart was okay too.

The side effects I suffered from cabergoline are under control now, I felt really irritated, hormonal, aggressive and dizzy between 2016 and 2019... but now I've calmed down. My mental health got better too - don't feel as manic or depressed... I felt like I had bipolar disorder in the beginning of drinking cabergoline... I was briefly on an antidepressant (citalopram) in 2016 to help me cope with the side effects but stopped them after a year, it was prescribed by my doctor. I had intrusive and racing thoughts back then.

Anyone that says that prolactinoma isn't that bad because it's not a cancerous tumor is a fucking dickhead. I can barely even function as normal human ever since I got diagnosed with this... TBH I'm just dreaming of the day this is over and I can be a normal healthy human again but sometimes I'm scared that I will have to live with this and be on cabergoline for life... like I'm damaged for life.

[centralbiohubgermany]

Research on Autoimmune Diseases

What exactly are autoimmune diseases?

Have you ever thought of a situation where our body becomes our enemy? Autoimmune diseases refer to a condition in which our immune system tends to destroy our healthy tissue due to an abnormal mechanism called autoimmunity. It is a chronic lifelong condition, and millions of people across the globe are living with it. Most of the time, autoimmune disorders are abrupt in onset, regardless of age, and females are more likely to develop than men. There are more than 80 autoimmune diseases that affect millions of people across the globe. It includes rheumatoid arthritis, Grave’s disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), antiphospholipid syndrome, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Sjogren’s syndrome, and many more.

Strengthen Research on Biospecimens of Autoimmune Diseases

The growing incidence and prevalence of autoimmune disorders called for the immediate attention of global research to discover novel treatments and prevent autoimmune diseases. Today, medical science has endless possibilities. As far as immunology research is concerned, a lack of a clear understanding of the causes and exact pathway of autoimmunity is the main roadblock to discovering a permanent cure for autoimmune conditions. Against this background, it is of paramount importance to utilize the banked human biospecimens, such as serum, plasma, tissue, and PBMC, isolated from patients with autoimmune diseases. A well preserved, richly annotated human biospecimen can act as in-vitro patient models to intensify more studies on autoimmune disorders. Therefore, powering human biospecimens to foster research can uncover the secret behind autoimmunity and discover disease-specific autoimmune disease treatments.

The largest collection of Autoimmune Disease samples. Order online.

Today, research on human biospecimens has immense possibilities. Therefore, the demand for best-quality reliable human biospecimens is rising exponentially. Understanding the limitless possibilities of human specimen research, Central BioHub unveils a meticulous collection of autoimmune disease samples exclusively for drug and diagnostic research. It provides samples that are ethically obtained from autoimmune disease patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, myasthenia gravis, antiphospholipid syndrome, Grave's disease, Hashimoto's disease, Sjögren's syndrome, etc. Being a marketplace for human biospecimens, all samples are in-stock and readily available for purchase, reservation or quotation. Central BioHub offers human serum samples tested for antinuclear antibodies (ANA), antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA), antibodies to double-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (anti-dsDNA), Rheumatoid factor (RF) and more parameters. To find out more about the samples and the ordering process, click here: https://centralbiohub.de/biospecimens/autoimmune-diseases

Central BioHub is eager to provide top-notch human biospecimens with the fastest global delivery. Pave your path to a moon shoot discovery in autoimmune disease research. Let’s start with Central BioHub today.

[synbiosys]

So, I’m not proud of it, but I’m back to ask for help again. Above is the link to my Ko-Fi account; I can accept donations via Stripe and Paypal; I don’t have a preference of which method you use. Below is a more detailed explanation of the events that have led to my current predicament; it’s not entirely necessary to understand, but it should make sense of why this happened to me.

I’m dealing with some health problems and a recent car accident and I need help paying my bills for the next few months while I use that time to finish incomplete coursework for classes I took last year. In case it’s not clear, an “Incomplete” is a grade that can be given by instructors at some schools in situations where a student wasn’t able to complete a major assignment for a class due to circumstances outside their control, and allows students a pre-determined amount of time to finish that work beyond the end of the course. I had a plan for covering my expenses with a summer job at the Oregon State University Arthropod Collection (OSAC) while I finished the incomplete work, but the nature of my health issues, an outbreak of fleas, and a car accident have all prevented me from making it work. Now I’m kind of trapped; the cost of living in Corvallis is too high for food stamps to last an entire month, I don’t have a car anymore, and I’ll probably end up homeless if I can’t pay October rent and also pay November rent on time. I’ve managed to find some work doing landscaping and yardwork in my neighborhood, but I’ve realized that it’s impossible to make enough money and also handle the incomplete coursework; focusing on the former will impact the completion of my degree in June, while focusing on the latter will likely result in homelessness. The loss of my car is exacerbating all of this, in part because I live further away from all of the stores/banks/etc. in Corvallis, and public transit here is not very good.

Since late 2022, I’ve been experiencing sleep apnea-like health problems arising from swollen turbinate glands. I have some known allergies, but they’ve never caused swollen turbinate glands. The impact on my sleep quality became so severe that I had to resort to nasal strips every night. I saw doctors about this problem as early as spring of 2022, but none of them were helpful; most of them didn’t listen to me, and none of them considered trying any kind of testing. This ineptitude continued even after directly asking my primary doctor about autoimmune conditions and how we could test for them. Despite how obviously informative blood samples can be, nobody suggested a blood test. I finally lost my patience and demanded they give me a blood test for hypothyroidism at the end of August. Lo and behold, my thyroid hormone levels were an order of magnitude out of the normal range. Autoimmune problems run in my mother’s family, and it’s likely that I have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis; this disease is rarer in men, and the symptoms appear very gradually. While I can understand how this would delay detection of the disease, there were FIVE different doctors who saw me in relation to the sleep/allergy problems and none of them considered a blood test. I started taking levothyroxine the same day as the test results, but before being treated, my symptoms became so severe that my ADHD medication stopped working, my OCD symptoms went out of control, and I was experiencing severe brain fog. This is what forced me to request incomplete grades for my courses; I was trying to complete coursework despite all of this, and I was barely able to keep up. Once treatment begins, it takes at least a month to take effect, so my symptoms didn’t start improving until early October. Most recently, I found out that I needed to increase my dosage, but thyroid problems often have complex consequences, and any changes to the dose of the medication will result in unwanted side effects.

My original plan for this summer was to work at OSAC to cover my expenses while I tackled the incomplete coursework. I calculated the gross income I’d need to meet my expenses, and working 30 hours a week at this position well exceeded that amount. My duties as a curatorial assistant change slightly depending on the tasks at hand, but because I am paid from grant money, I must work efficiently, accurately, and in an organized manner. Because I have ADHD, extra measures are necessary in order to meet these requirements. I’ve worked this job intermittently since 2018, so I know how prevent my ADHD symptoms from interfering with my work. Because of the failures by my doctors to address my health problems, I was already struggling to arrive at work on time by June. By July, my symptoms had worsened to the point that I was no longer able to focus on work consistently, voluntarily cutting some days short because I wasn’t accomplishing much, and continuing to work in that state was inherently a waste of grant money. By August I could only make it to work sporadically. As a result, I missed most of the income I could have earned for August and September of this year. I was able to make up for some of this impact by selling old trading cards and video games from childhood, but that money didn’t last very long.

I was also confronted with a flea infestation that suddenly appeared in August. I rent a bedroom in a house with housemates; we tried to eradicate them ourselves, but the landlord suddenly informed us in early September that he hired an exterminator, who was arriving in less than 24 hours. I have some pet reptiles and pet invertebrates I needed to protect from pesticide exposure, so I suddenly had to move my pets to a friend’s house. I also had to re-arrange my bedroom to accommodate the exterminators. Based on the chemicals that were used, the only way I could make room safe again for my pets was by mopping the floor in my bedroom and the adjacent hallway three times. This ultimately cost me four days, and then the exterminators came back in early October, which forced me to repeat the process.

As if this wasn’t enough, I had a serious car accident in late September that annihilated my car and left me with severe lacerations to my left arm and a fracture in my thumb. The car spun out and flipped in the process, landing in the opposite lane. If another car had been about to pass me, it would have caused a direct collision at around 55 mph, and I probably wouldn’t have survived that. I realized the danger immediately and crawled out of the car, but most of the other possible outcomes would have involved my demise. I’m very lucky, but it took almost a month for the lacerations to heal, and one of them was deep enough to cause nerve damage, which hasn’t completely healed yet. My left hand has healed enough for me to use it, but I’m still having some issues with my thumb.

I wish I could say that I had help from my family, but my parents were impacted by both of the recent hurricanes that made landfall in western Florida. Even before the hurricanes, my parents weren’t really willing to understand what I was dealing with. I grew up in an abusive household; my sister and I were neglected by our parents, and we experienced emotional abuse from them as young adults. This is particularly true of my father, who himself is the product of a highly abusive upbringing. Unfortunately, research on the dynamics of child abuse has shown that children from abusive households often suffer a lack of economic mobility relative to children from more supportive family backgrounds as a result of mental health impacts. This has absolutely been the case with my sister and I; both of us are well into our 30s, and neither of us is anywhere close to long-term financial stability. That’s why it was deeply hurtful to hear my father blame me for being unable to fly to Florida on a whim to help him clean up the house, blame me for paying $950 a month for rent, and shame me for being 35 years old without a “stable job”. Both of my parents visited me in Corvallis in late July; they could tell that I was struggling, they apologized for neglecting me, and they told me they’d be more supportive, but apparently everything they said to me then must have been an act.  

Hopefully, this explanation sufficiently articulates the situation I’ve ended up in. I almost have enough money to pay my October rent, and I need to have my November rent paid by 11/5. I would have tried using Ko-Fi sooner, but in the interest of upholding my own responsibility, I wanted to exhaust my other options before resorting to donations again

[kenntowol]

EMERGENCY; Longterm assault has led to the deterioration of my health + avoiding homelessness

I’ve been life-haltingly sick going on 7 years now, with several outside factors either exacerbating things or keeping me from getting treatment. The short version is, I did not ask for the things that happened to me that led to my health issues, I have fought like hell to stay afloat anyway. In my childhood I lost my trust, power, community, sense of self and my autonomy. In my adulthood I lost my time, health, stability, my home and any feeling of safety and its only getting worse because I can not afford to be this sick and pay my bills. **Now I’ve lost the ability to even eat.**

**I can not stress enough these are ACCUMULATIVE AMOUNTS. this is not money that I HAVE, this is money that has gone into rent, bills, doctors, moving to a cheaper place, medications, mobility aides, etc. it has gone to things that are necessary.**

I have not had a life of my own since 2017. I have worked tirelessly with measly breaks when I can’t take it anymore. My mental health is collapsing and it makes me ashamed when it shows. If I am not medicated, I am not even a person anymore- it feels like I am just the fear.

Any time I’ve started to see savings come together It all ends up going to the extraordinary taxes required as a freelance artist.  An ultrasound recently showed there is barely anything left of my thyroid and my new endocrinologist tested for hashimoto’s again, and it came back negative- meaning a great majority of issues I’ve had doctors blaming my thyroid for are completely unrelated and caused by something else. Currently looking into internal brain injury, but the need for financial support in order to pay bills and afford medical help is incredibly dire. Please help and reblog this GFM anything quite literally helps.

[el-tur-el]

Went to the ENT today! The Good News: They're almost completely certain it's not any kind of malignancy. The Bad News: My thyroid is enlarged, and they have concerns that my symptoms may be consistent with something like Hashimoto's Disease. However, this is very very treatable, and the prognosis is excellent with treatment and continued monitoring. I have an ultrasound next week where they will examine my thyroid for nodules/other evidence of illness, and take a closer look at the lymph nodes just to be absolutely certain it's not anything serious. I'm also going to be getting some blood work done. So, yay! Not anything very very concerning! And answers are always good. I'm hoping the ultrasound gives us a clearer picture of what we're dealing with. My sincerest thanks to all of you for your support, kindness, and patience over the last few weeks. This community is genuinely one of the nicest spaces I've ever been in, and I am so immensely grateful for each and every single one of you! Upload schedule for this week should be up sometime later this evening! Yes, the promised Rolan fic is on there. Hugs to you all!!

[sleepy-gryphon]

I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's when I was six. I had a fairly large thyroid nodule removed the same year. My thyroid function was monitored until I was about... 10? 11? And then stopped. I strongly suspect this was because my mom's private insurance wouldn't pay for the testing. I didn't get ANY treatment for hypothyroid until I was twenty. Complete thyroidectomy at 22.

Seeing people who are diagnosed with Hashimoto's in their 30s, their 40s, and they talk about how debilitating it is is just like.... I've had what you have all my life. This thing that destroyed your hobbies and job and life.

Have I EVER known what normal feels like?

[wanderrealms]

I got sent an article on Liam Gallagher talking about hashimoto's thyroiditis and the effect it has on his life. I think it's great he's talking about it, since people don't know much about the symptoms and I've read it is more common in women, so men might not be as aware and be less likely to seek treatment because it's less likely. But less likely does not mean impossible.

Hashimoto's is when your autoimmune system produces thyroid antibodies which disrupt thyroid function and make it underactive. The symptoms are broad and varied. Cold extremities is common, fatigue, brittle hair, goiter, dry scaly skin, it also causes swelling of the joints resulting in pain, abdominal swelling, facial swelling, slow heartrate.... and more. It can be hard to even suspect one illness might behind them and seek treatment.

The Mirror article in question

[bizlybebo]

i can’t wait to get treatment not cause i’m sick of being in pain and tired and cold all the time but because the way to treat hashimotos is usually thyroid hormone replacements. i can literally say i’m on hrt

[snugglebeans3000]

Hey guys, it’s me. I just wanted to give an update on things since I’ve very inactive over the last several months.

I recently got diagnosed with Hashimotos, and for those of you who don’t know what it is, it’s an auto immune disorder that has to do with the inflammation of your thyroid, a tiny little butterfly like organ in your neck. Because the thyroid is directly tied to one’s immune system, this means I’ve been getting sick a lot over the past few months. It’s taken a lot out of me, and I haven’t had the energy to do as much as I used to. I feel bad that I don’t interact a lot on posts anymore, I think that’s maybe why I’m making this post in the first place. I’m sick now, but I’m getting better, it’s just I’ve been in limbo trying to get treatment for this disorder, and because of that wait I keep getting sick, and it doesn’t help that my entire job is to be around people who need help with sickness of their own. I just wanted to let you guys know. Thank you for your understanding. I’m going to try and interact and post more, but if I go quiet for a little (or maybe a long while) that’s why. I know it’s silly to say but I miss you guys.

I’ll probably delete this post later. I don’t usually talk about personal stuff like this, so maybe this is just sickness brain getting the better of me. I hope all of you are doing well, I may not show it but I get so happy when I see your art and headcanons. Thank you for your understanding guys. I have an appt with my doctor on the third, so hopefully that will get this cleared up and back to my normal self. Until then, I wish all of you a happy new year, and some very very wholesome thoughts with your favorite characters. Thank you.

[myhealingera]

Two weeks after this photo was taken, I received a phone call that nobody ever wants to receive.

I was dealing with a slew of health issues: an inability to lose weight, hair loss, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue so intense that getting out of bed felt like a miracle, and severe brain fog. My joints were in so much pain that I found myself using a heating pad for most of the day.

I consulted my aunt, who is a pediatrician, and she reviewed my recent blood work. She observed that my TSH levels were consistently borderline high, often surpassing the normal threshold. Encouraged by her insight, I visited my OBGYN and shared my symptoms. She ordered hormone testing and referred me to a rheumatologist, given that lupus runs in my family. The results indicated elevated TSH, DHEA, and C-reactive protein levels.

I then saw a remarkable rheumatologist who conducted over 120 tests. All came back normal except for my thyroid antibodies, and I was diagnosed with arthritis in my hands. Around this time, my neck began to swell, feeling as though something was stuck in my throat. My primary care physician scheduled an ultrasound, which revealed swelling in my neck and a lymph node, and identified a nodule or "ectopic" tissue.

Returning to my primary care doctor, I was told my lab results were normal and advised to follow up in a year, despite continuing to experience swollen lymph nodes and being told that the neck nodule was unrelated to the swelling. At this point had been to urgent care 3 times, completed 3 rounds of steroids, a z-pack, and tested negative for mono, Covid, and strep.

Despite my tendency to avoid conflict, something felt off, and I knew I wasn't okay.

I requested a referral to an endocrinologist, which I received, but they couldn't see me until after Christmas. Not wanting to wait, I found another endocrinologist who could see me on Halloween. At my first appointment, I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and hypothyroidism. She ordered a biopsy "to be safe," emphasizing that a finding warrants investigation. Even at the hospital for my biopsy, the PA questioned its necessity given my primary care's advice to wait a year.

On 12/22, my endocrinologist informed me that the biopsy results were suspicious for thyroid carcinoma. I returned on 1/5 to discuss the findings.

They had sent my sample for Afirma testing, a genetic test for medullary thyroid cancer, due to the unusual results and the aggressive nature of the potential cancer.

I was then referred to an ENT, who suspected the nodule might actually be a lymph node. A CT scan confirmed this suspicion, revealing a lymph node suspicious for thyroid cancer, yet with no nodules on my thyroid itself.

The decision was made to remove the lymph node, with intraoperative pathology consultation to decide whether to also remove the thyroid.

On 2/24, the lymph node was removed, but pathology was indeterminate, leading to the decision not to remove the thyroid.

The following week, I was informed that my results had been sent to a larger university hospital for further analysis and a second opinion, an ominous sign according to my ENT.

Ultimately, it was confirmed as papillary thyroid cancer that had begun to metastasize to the lymph nodes, indicating occult thyroid cancer, typically undetected until it spreads to the lymph nodes. Likely, there are microcarcinomas on my thyroid undetectable by imaging. Thus, another surgery is required.

My complete thyroidectomy is scheduled for 4/24.

Honestly, none of this truly sank in until I received a call from the hospital's oncology department to schedule a radiation consultation for post-surgery RAI treatment.

It’s been an incredibly tough start to the year, to say the least.

[x22817]

"Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside of a dog, it's too dark to read."

-Groucho Marx

"we can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals"

-Immanuel Kant

↓ About us ↓

♏️Madde🦇human🐈‍⬛23

🏺classicist

📚 bibliophile

🎼 metal head

👻 horror hound

🕸 goth wannabe

⭐️ occultist

🐐 Satanist

🌘Hekate🌕Bean/Magickal Fruit🌒3

🖤 familiar

🐾 rescue

🦴 foodie

🪢tug of war champ

🐕‍🦺 multipurpose service dog

🐕 hound wannabe

We are not perfect

We don't have to be

📚 StoryGraph 📚

Human with:

Polyglandular Autoimmune Syndrome

Addison's Disease (primary)

Vasodepressor syncope

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

Peripheral neuropathy

Rheumatoid arthritis

Pernicious anemia

Hyponatremia

Gastritis

POTS

TBI

PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Panic, EDs

🩶 Fenway 🩶

💖 Tony 💖

💙 Oliver 💙

[grkhere]

Treatment for Hypothyroidism | Hashimoto's thyroiditis

[doodlehowlter]

The Emerging Role of Low-Dose Naltrexone: A Promising Therapy for Various Health Conditions

Introduction

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) as a potential treatment for a wide range of health conditions. Originally approved in the 1980s for treating opioid addiction, LDN is now being explored for its potential benefits in autoimmune disorders, chronic pain, and various other ailments. This article delves into the science behind LDN, its mechanisms of action, and its potential applications in managing several medical conditions.

Understanding Low-Dose Naltrexone

Naltrexone, a drug initially developed to treat opioid and alcohol dependence, works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain. At standard doses (50mg), naltrexone effectively antagonizes these receptors, preventing the rewarding effects of opioids and reducing cravings for alcohol. However, researchers have discovered that at much lower doses (ranging from 1.5mg to 4.5mg), the drug exhibits a different pharmacological profile, leading to the emergence of LDN.

Mechanism of Action

Low-dose naltrexone exerts its effects by modulating the immune system. It acts as an opioid receptor antagonist, temporarily blocking these receptors, which triggers a rebound effect. This rebound response leads to a surge in endorphin production, causing a cascade of immunomodulatory effects. The increased levels of endorphins have been shown to regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation, making LDN an intriguing option for various immune-related disorders.

LDN and Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, tissues, or organs. LDN's immunomodulatory properties have shown promise in the management of several autoimmune conditions, including multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Studies have suggested that LDN may help reduce autoimmune activity and mitigate symptoms in these patients.

LDN and Chronic Pain

Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide, often diminishing their quality of life. LDN has been studied as a potential option for chronic pain management due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Conditions like fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), and neuropathic pain have been the subject of investigation regarding LDN's efficacy in alleviating pain and improving patients' overall well-being.

LDN and Cancer

In addition to its immune-regulating effects, LDN has attracted attention for its possible role in cancer treatment. Preliminary studies have shown that LDN may have a direct effect on cancer cells by inhibiting their growth and promoting apoptosis. Additionally, LDN's immune-modulating capabilities may enhance the body's own defenses against cancer cells, potentially complementing conventional cancer therapies.

Neurological Conditions and LDN

LDN's potential impact extends to various neurological conditions. Research has indicated its possible benefits in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Though much of the evidence is based on preclinical studies and anecdotal reports, the results are promising, prompting further investigation into LDN's role in supporting neurological health.

Safety and Side Effects

LDN, when used at low doses, has generally been well-tolerated. Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal disturbances and vivid dreams. However, it is crucial to note that LDN is not suitable for everyone, and individuals with liver disease or those taking opioids should avoid its use. As with any medical intervention, it is essential for patients to consult their healthcare providers before initiating LDN therapy.

Challenges and Limitations

While LDN shows considerable promise, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges and limitations associated with its use. Due to the lack of large-scale clinical trials, LDN's full potential and long-term safety remain to be fully understood. Additionally, LDN is not a one-size-fits-all treatment, and its efficacy may vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being addressed.

Conclusion

Low dose naltrexone represents a fascinating and promising area of medical research. Its unique mechanism of action and potential benefits in managing autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, cancer, and neurological conditions have sparked interest among healthcare professionals and patients alike. Although further research is needed to establish its effectiveness conclusively, LDN offers hope for individuals seeking alternative treatments for a variety of health conditions. As the scientific community continues to explore its potential, LDN may eventually become a valuable addition to the arsenal of therapeutic options for numerous medical challenges.