Thyroid hormone therapy is a treatment method whereby affected people (with hypothyroidism or a lack of production of the hormone in the right quantities) are supposed to take thyroid hormone.
With it in control, this treatment can contribute to regaining energy, improving mood, and establishing metabolism. But it must be understood that not all can be treated with the Thyroid Hormone Therapy. It is performed along with careful testing, accuracy of dose, and monitoring.
Like any other long-term treatment, it is not devoid of risks, which can manifest themselves in case of untimely treatment.
One has to know what the therapy is, who can use it, and how to conduct it safely before beginning therapy. This article will lead you to the details and principal considerations you have to keep in mind to make an informed decision.
Understanding Thyroid Hormone Therapy
The lowest usage of thyroid hormone therapy is aimed at the treatment of hypothyroidism (or the deficiency of an adequate amount of thyroid hormone synthesized by the body).
The most prescribed medicine that replaces the deficiency of the body is levothyroxine, which is a synthetic form of the T4 hormone.
The thyroid gland plays a dominant role in regulating metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy levels. Most body systems go sluggish with a decline in the level of thyroid hormones.
The common symptoms of hypothyroid individuals are that they are tired, they gain weight, they become depressed, they have dry skin and constipation, and they catch colds easily.
Advantages of Thyroid Hormone Therapy
The main aim of using thyroid hormone on the thyroid is to balance the level of the hormones so that such symptoms can be eliminated. The majority of the patients feel better after a few weeks of starting treatment. There is boosted energy, enhanced metabolism, and improved mood.
BP and cholesterol levels can also normalize. In women, the hormone therapy could also enhance the regularity of menstruation and fertility.
The other important advantage is that proper levels of thyroid hormones are effective at safeguarding against long-term health, particularly at the level of the heart and the brain
That said, thyroid therapy is not a cure, it’s a lifelong commitment for many patients. When patients miss doses, or take the wrong amount, or do not contact their provider to see them, the symptoms are likely to recur or be aggravated.
You should also know about the interaction with other meds and the necessity to have regular timings regarding the manner of taking medication.
Things You Need to Know Before Starting Thyroid Hormone Therapy
Here are the factors you must consider before starting thyroid hormone therapy:
1. Diagnosis and Lab Testing
A prescription of thyroid therapy without initiation should never take place. The first one is the confirmation of hypothyroidism by laboratory tests, usually TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and free T4. In some cases, T3 and thyroid antibody tests may also be made.
These tests do more than just determine that a person has low levels of these hormones; they can also determine the cause of the problem, which is either Hashimoto thyroiditis, iodine shortage, or post-surgery hypothyroidism.
During therapy, incorrect dosing may be done when the labs are not correctly prepared. It is also frequently required to retest to confirm the results before prescription.
2. Dosage and Adjustments
Identification of the appropriate dose is time-consuming. A standard dose is given out depending on weight, age, and other health issues, with most people taking it up. However, this dose usually requires some changes.
Symptoms could be present in case the dose is not high enough. Excessive use can put you at risk of developing symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as anxiety, sleeplessness, or a fast heart rate.
This is the reason why follow-ups of blood tests are conducted approximately 6 to 8 weeks following administration or change of medication. These tests direct your provider to perfect the dose according to the requirements of your body. Do not adjust your dose yourself.
3. Medication Timing and Absorption
When and the way you use thyroid medicine is important. To be absorbed well, levothyroxine is to be taken on an empty stomach, best in the morning hours, half an hour to one hour before food.
There are foods, such as supplement intake (such as calcium or iron), and even coffee, that almost block the effectiveness of absorption. Aim to follow the same time of taking your medications every day.
Consistency will stabilize hormones and enhance the results of treatment. In case you forget, you can take the missing dose as soon as you remember until it is near the next dose.
4. Drug and Supplement Interactions
Several over-the-counter drugs and supplements can interact with thyroid medicine. Absorption can be decreased by antacids, calcium, iron, cholesterol medications, and even multivitamin products.
You need to tell your provider all that you take (over-the-counter pills and herbal supplements included). In other cases, your provider can delay or change the class of medications to prevent an interference.
You should never add any new supplement to your regimen or medicine without checking. Updating your doctor curtails any chances of complications and keeps your thyroid hormone within the target range.
5. Long-Term Monitoring and Commitment
Thyroid therapy is most often a lifelong treatment. It implies that the follow-up process is necessary. Hormone levels can vary even with improvements in symptoms, as the levels are affected by changes in weight, age, pregnancy, or other diseases.
Your levels will have to be brought under control through regular blood tests, usually four times a year or at an interval of 6-12 months. You can experience relapses or a flare-up in the symptoms in case of omitting check-ups or an abrupt termination of the drug intake.
Adherence will guarantee that you are level-headed, full of vitality, and in good condition in the long run. Select a provider that takes care of long-term care and not merely prescriptions.
Final Thoughts
The use of thyroid hormone is safe when used correctly. The trick is to begin with adequate diagnosis, adherence to medication, and a promise of frequent checkups.
Ensure to be aware of what to expect during the process of undergoing treatment and its management. The thyroid treatment can be used to help regain balance and lead a normal life with proper assistance.
