Dr. Tabor: I recently gained about 10 pounds over a short period of time. I was complaining about it to a few friends and they suggested that I might have a thyroid problem. What is the thyroid and how could it cause weight-gain? —JoAnn S., Bellevue, WA

JoAnn:
The thyroid gland produces hormones, which control the metabolism. According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, over 27 million Americans suffer from a thyroid disorder and only about half of these people have been diagnosed. This is because the symptoms of thyroid disorders run the gamut—from weight fluctuations to mood changes—and these indications can often be confused for other conditions.

Hypothyroidism is an under-active thyroid, meaning that not enough of the thyroid hormones are being produced. This imbalance has a direct effect on the rate your body burns calories, as well as, your heart rate and body temperature. The following symptoms vary for each individual case:

− Weight gain (usually does not exceed 20-30 pounds)
− Fatigue
− Muscle weakness or pain
− Increased blood cholesterol
− Dry, pale or puffy skin
− Depression
− Constipation
− Heavier menstrual periods

Many people discount the symptoms as just a part of life or getting older. In other cases, the combination of certain symptoms could be misdiagnosed; for example, weight gain, hot flashes, fatigue and irritability are signs of both hypothyroidism and menopause.

But if hypothyroidism goes undiagnosed, symptoms increase, the thyroid gland (located at the nape of the neck) can become enlarged, the risk of a heart attack nearly doubles and the condition can develop into an advanced form, which is life threatening. If you are concerned that you may have hypothyroidism, speak with your doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing. If he or she is concerned, they will most likely start by testing your blood—with a TSH test and/or T4 test.

Treatments include thyroid hormone replacement or natural alternatives.

In good health,
Dr. Tabor

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There are plenty of things to worry about in our daily lives, from alarming news stories to your family’s well-being to meeting deadlines. Stress is not an uncommon response to life’s challenges. In fact 75-90% of all doctor visits are for stress-related conditions and symptoms, according to The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

The body’s response to negative and/or threatening experiences is sometimes referred to as “fight-or-flight” and is an essential survival mechanism in many instances. But, over-exposure to stressful situations can wreak havoc on your mental and physical health.

Effects of frequent stress run the gamut—headaches, stomach issues, high blood pressure, chest pains, fatigue, depression, diabetes, obesity, skin conditions, anxiety and sleep disorders.

In stressful situations, the pituitary gland (at the base of the brain) releases an increased amount of the hormone adrenocorticotropic (ACTH). The ACTH hormone activates the release of other hormones, like cortisone and adrenaline, into the bloodstream. These hormones act to sharpen your focus, provide you with extra strength and help you quickly react to danger.

Hormones return to normal levels after the situation subsides. However, if these hormones are triggered frequently and over a long period of time, you can be at risk for serious health conditions.

Here are some pointers for re-shaping your lifestyle to avoid stress:

− Reflect/relax: find an activity that helps you relax, whether it be yoga, meditation, listening to music, etc.

− Healthy diet: eat foods like protein, whole grains, fresh fruit/vegetables, which keep blood sugar levels consistent and avoid sugar and caffeine that cause energy spike-and-crash reactions.

− Sleep: seven to nine hours of sleep per night will restore your body and mind and help you avoid illness.

− Stay active: exercise helps relieve stress and promotes production of endorphin hormones, which improve mood.
− Talk/share: express your emotions and thoughts to friends or to a therapist. Keep a personal journal.

− Time for yourself: take the time to engage in a hobby, volunteer, pamper yourself or just have “me” time.

It is important for us to listen to what our bodies and minds are trying to tell us so we are aware of our stress levels. There are ways to take control of such experiences and tailor our lives to avoid situations that might trigger anxiety.

Posted by Revival Administrator at 08:24 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)