When the levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) are high, it means that the thyroid is not working properly, in which case it is called hypothyroidism. This disorder occurs when the gland does not produce adequate amounts of certain hormones that the body uses to control important metabolic or chemical functions. This pathology causes a sense of exhaustion, depression, weight gain and loss of appetite; if left untreated, it can lead to obesity, infertility, heart disease and joint pain. If you have hypothyroidism, you need to lower your TSH levels to reduce symptoms. To treat the excessive concentration of this hormone, you can take medications, as well as make changes in diet and lifestyle, to keep hypothyroidism at bay.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Thyroid Medications
Step 1. Get tested for TSH levels
If you have experienced some symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as constipation, hoarseness, and fatigue, go to your doctor to see if you have this disorder. During your visit, your doctor will likely order blood tests to check if your thyroid is not functioning properly.
Step 2. Ask your doctor to prescribe thyroid medications
The most effective way to lower TSH levels that are too high due to hypothyroidism is to take a synthetic thyroid hormone called levothyroxine; this drug is available by prescription, is taken orally and is able to restore the correct hormone concentration by managing the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Take one serving a day.
- Once treatment is started, symptoms should subside within 3-5 days and the drug should be fully effective within 4-6 weeks.
- Always follow the doctor's instructions regarding the dosage; never take more than the recommended dose.
- Thyroid medications must be taken for life to keep TSH at the correct levels, but fortunately they are quite inexpensive; the doctor or pharmacist can tell you what the client's fee is.
Step 3. Learn about the side effects of the drug
If you are prescribed too high a dose and your thyroid hormone reaches too high levels, you may experience side effects; your doctor must adjust the dosage according to your body's unique needs. He may prescribe a certain medicine to which the body reacts negatively. See the emergency room immediately if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to levothyroxine such as: hives, difficulty in breathing, swelling of the face, tongue, lips or throat. Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Tachycardia or arrhythmia;
- Chest pain and / or difficulty in breathing;
- Fever, hot flashes and / or excessive sweating;
- Unusual feeling of cold
- Weakness, fatigue and / or sleep disturbances;
- Memory problems, depression or irritability
- Muscle aches
- Dry skin, hair, or hair loss;
- Changes in the menstrual cycle;
- Vomiting, diarrhea, changes in appetite and / or weight changes.
Step 4. Do not take certain supplements while on drug therapy
Those of iron and calcium can affect the body's ability to absorb the medicine; you should also avoid cholestyramine and aluminum hydroxide products.
- Before starting thyroid medication, tell your doctor about any other medication or supplement therapy you are taking.
- Generally speaking, thyroid medication is most effective when taken on an empty stomach about half an hour before a meal.
Step 5. Try "natural" thyroid medications with caution
These "natural" substitutes come from the thyroid glands of animals, such as pork, and you can buy them online as food supplements; however, they are not hygienically guaranteed and the dosage of the active ingredient is not standardized. You should avoid buying or taking products that are deemed "natural" but are not prescribed or recommended by your doctor.
- Your doctor may prescribe such "natural" alternatives in dried or extracted form.
- If you are interested in learning more, ask your doctor if there are any non-synthetic products available by prescription.
Step 6. Monitor drug progress
Get regular checkups to see if your TSH levels are dropping properly with the help of medications. In some cases, the doctor may adjust the dosage after two to three months to make sure the body is getting an adequate amount of the hormone.
After a month or two with the correct dose of medication, your symptoms should begin to subside and you should feel less tired. eating habits should also improve and weight should return to normal
Step 7. Undergo TSH tests annually
Schedule a yearly check of your hormone values to make sure they reach the correct levels; your doctor should prescribe this test at least once a year to confirm that the medication is working properly.
- When you start taking a new dosage of levothyroxine you will need to be checked more frequently.
- People with hypothyroidism must take thyroid hormone replacement drugs for life; even if you start to feel better, you don't have to stop taking it, otherwise the symptoms may recur.
Method 2 of 2: Adapting Nutrition and Lifestyle
Step 1. Eat a diet rich in vitamin B and iodine
Eat many healthy sources of protein, such as tofu, poultry, and legumes, as well as vitamin B-rich foods like whole grains, nuts, and seeds. It also incorporates an adequate amount of fruit and vegetables, especially seaweed which are rich in iodine; Foods that have a high natural iodine content are great for the thyroid.
- You could try eating seaweed like kelp, nori, and kombu at least once a day. Sprinkle some kelp over salads or soups to enrich them with iodine; kombu is perfect with legumes or meat, while nori is ideal for making rolls.
- Add nuts and seeds to stir-fry dishes, quinoa, and salads.
Step 2. Exercise regularly
Exercise helps speed up your metabolism and fight side effects of underactive thyroid, such as fatigue, depression, and weight gain. Go for a run or bike ride regularly; join the gym and take part in training courses. Get into the habit of staying active at least half an hour a day.
You can also take yoga classes to move and reduce stress levels; look for a local gym or yoga center in your area
Step 3. Get enough vitamin D every day
Aim to expose yourself to the sun for at least 20-30 minutes in the early morning or late afternoon; keep your arms, legs and face in the sun. Low vitamin D levels have been found to be associated with hypothyroidism; therefore, raising them can soothe the symptoms of the disease.
If you live in an area where the sun's rays are often very weak, especially during the winter months, see your doctor for vitamin D supplements
Step 4. Reduce anxiety and stress
You have to limit the emotional state of anxiety so as not to compromise the thyroid. Engage in calming activities, such as painting, drawing, and sewing, or practice a hobby you enjoy to relax and relieve tension.
