A Butterfly

...shaped gland at the base of the neck is the thyroid gland, which excretes a hormone that controls how energy is used by our cells. Abnormal function of the thyroid gland can exhibit excessive or insufficient amounts of hormones in the bloodstream. Insufficient amounts of the thyroid hormone is called hypothyroidism and is the most common thyroid problem. It also affects more women and people over the age of 60 than any other groups.

According to the American Thyroid Association, the major causes of hypothyroidism are:

• Autoimmune disease,
• Removal of all or part of the thyroid, resulting in a decrease of thyroid hormone production,
• Radiation treatment,
• Congenital hypothyroidism,
• Inflammation of the thyroid gland caused by an autoimmune attack or infection,
• Reaction to medication,
• Too much iodine,
• Damage to the pituitary gland,
• Disease that impairs thyroid function.

The symptoms of hypothyroidism are not consistent from individual to individual, and can develop very slowly over a period of time. Symptoms can be difficulty in losing weight, dry skin, lethargy or fatigue, hair loss, recurrent infections and sensitivity to cold. They should be unusual to typical daily feelings to consider them a thyroid issue. Also, check with family members for a history of thyroid disease or problems, because it is genetic.

If you think hypothyroidism is the problem, get tested. A simple TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) blood test can determine if you suffer from low levels of the hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). The T4 hormone is the most critical because of its affect on every cell in the body. If the results show a hypothyroid issue, take the initiative to start controlling the disorder.

To control hypothyroidism, thyroxine (T4) needs to be replaced. Sounds simple, however, it will be a lifelong commitment. Controlling hypothyroidism can be done by supplementation with a natural Thyroid Formula to balance hormone levels, or there are other alternatives. For individuals with a minor hypothyroid disorder, symptoms should subside within a few weeks after taking a TSH, but a more severe thyroid imbalance may take longer with other factors influencing relief.

Good health should be taken seriously, so if you haven't focused on symptoms in your body, start paying closer attention. Consistent feelings of lethargy, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold may not be because you're going through the normal aging process, but because that butterfly-shaped gland in the base of your neck is, well, gradually becoming more than just a pain in the neck.

Change

Some days we have it, some days we don't. Fatigue that is. Occasional drowsiness during the day or lack of interest is a common symptom of fatigue that effects the general population, and doesn't necessarily mean there is a physical, emotional, or psychological problem of any kind. It may mean you worked too hard in the garden yesterday or had a decision that wore you out mentally. These can be overcome easily by changing the habit or process in which you do that particular task. If you've made the change and your everyday responsibilities return without an abundance of fatigue, then you most likely don't suffer from chronic or persistent fatigue.

There are a number of factors that point to a reoccurring fatigue problem. Chronic fatigue usually lasts for six months or longer and interferes with daily function. The number one problem is an overgrowth of microorganisms in the body. After years of taking antibiotics or other medications, eating processed foods and sugar, and being exposed to chemicals, airborne particulates and other irritants, the body becomes less efficient, weakens and becomes a breeding ground for fungus. The longer a body is fed additives, sugars, and medications, the worst symptoms become. The body weakens according to the level of abuse throughout the years and what the body is exposed to. This is why there is a tendency for older people to develop disease.

Symptoms are the result of a buildup of fungus in the body, which alters the function of many internal organs and processes. In other words, fungus throws a wrench into typical human physiology. People reach a certain age - symptoms occur at varying ages - and they start to feel aches, pains, sluggishness, mild depression, and sleep disorders to name a few. The body is telling you a major change is necessary.

The number one step to take is change your diet - eliminate 99% of carbohydrates, eat plenty of vegetables, nuts and meat for at least six months. This change alone should increase energy levels. Also, take antifungals to kill off any microorganisms that have accumulated in the body and are causing problems for specific functions.

Fatigue has so much to do with inactivity, which is why exercise is so critical. If you are not used to physical activity, try something you enjoy doing, motivation will not be as difficult. There are so many different kinds of exercise available even if you live in a remote area where a gym is nonexistent. If you have stairs, try walking up and down them for 20 minutes a day. Get an exercise ball and work every part of your body, along with some type of cardio workout like walking or hiking.

Keep your mental health strong by surrounding yourself with others who are positive and active. Also, set up goals, short term and long term. Sometimes the last thing someone wants to do is the best thing for them. Schedule weekly visits with friends, join a knitting club, join a basketball league or golf league, meet relatives for a picnic. There are so many opportunities to break out of a rut and turn your thought process into a brighter outlook on life.

This is not intended to oversimplify a common, sometimes very debilitating disease. There are many factors that play a role in chronic fatigue. The advice above is a list of general techniques that, if tried, have helped others in the same situation. Sometimes all it takes is just a little advice to help change your life.