First, we need to understand, what Is the Thyroid Gland?

The thyroid gland is located in front of the neck. It has right and left lobes that confer a butterfly-shaped appearance. The hormones produced by this gland control the body’s metabolism, or the processes by which the body uses energy. Disorders that affect thyroid function can either speed up or slow down metabolic processes, which can lead to a wide range of symptoms.

Overactivity and underactivity of the thyroid gland may result in alterations in body weight, skin, hair or the nails too! Skin problems can be significant in patients with thyroid disease. Not surprisingly, the signs of an underactive thyroid are quite different from those of an overactive thyroid. The signs are rather non-specific, often subtle, and easily confused with other conditions or normality.

What is Hypothyroidism?

An underactive thyroid can cause a condition known as hypothyroidism. It's hard to tell if you have thyroid abnormalities. You might feel run down and tired, or have what is known as "brain fog." You may be gaining weight  or experiencing hair loss. Others may feel "hyper," anxious, or sweat a lot more than usual. All of these are common symptoms of thyroid disorders. The thyroid gland regulates many processes within the body, and women are particularly likely to have disorders that affect the function of this essential gland. Recognizing and treating these conditions is critical for optimum health and preventing long-term health problems.

What to look for?

In advanced hypothyroidism, the following symptoms may lead to a visit to the doctor and thyroid hormone testing.

Weight Gain:

Because patients with an underactive thyroid tend to have a very low basal metabolic rate, one of the most noticeable symptoms of hypothyroidism is weight gain and difficulty losing extra weight. Often the “metabolic burn” continues to fall as calories are reduced when dieting. That’s why some people with low thyroid can have weight gain even when they severely restrict calories.

Skin, Hair & Nails :

  • Other Changes that one must be aware of in Hypothyroidism
  • The skin turns yellowish in color called “Carotenaemia”
  • The skin turns Pale, cold, scaly & gets wrinkled up.
  • The scalp and hair become dry & coarse.
  • Hair loss in the scalp groin, lateral eyebrows etc. areas
  • Hands, face and eyelids become puffy . Nails turn thick & brittle. Bruising & poor wound healing.
  • Limited/ Absence of sweating
  • In some cases as a result of very dry skin , one may experience “Eczema Craquele”

All thyroid diseases can be treated, resulting in normal thyroid function. However, this frequently requires being on medication to maintain the normal thyroid state. After starting treatment, you should have regular visits with your doctor to make sure you have the right dose of medicine. In most cases, symptoms of hypothyroidism start to improve within the first week after you start treatment. All symptoms usually disappear within a few months.

Tips:

  • Oral anti oxidants containing Lycopene, Vitamin C, Ubiquinone are advised to combat the free radical damage.
  • Have a Hydra medifacial monthly with hydra infusions to combat the dryness
  • For hair, treat as soon as you see the hair loss or hair thinning with procedures like growth factor infusions. To grow back hair is harder than preventing the hair loss.
  • Use a body oil after shower to form a coat on the skin
  • For puffiness, have Detox Medifacials to detox the skin and help with the lymphatic drainage.
  • Radiofrequency treatments for older patients over 45yrs is advisable to keep the skin tight and taut, otherwise premature sagging sets in.