A chronic illness can make you look healthy on the outside while suffering on the inside. Thyroid conditions are among these illnesses. There are many cases of people who were happy and healthy at one point until they began feeling ill. Some have had misdiagnoses for months or years before a doctor told them that they have hypothyroidism. A person may have to monitor their health after a diagnosis. That is because having significant stress, falling sick, or even visiting the dentist could affect their medication and condition.

Millions of Americans live with some kind of thyroid disease. Therefore, medical practitioners have drawn attention to how Chinese medicine and acupuncture can help treat thyroid conditions. At the Art of Chinese Healing, we pride ourselves on assisting patients to treat their thyroid conditions through acupuncture. We have the necessary experience to deliver the best possible outcome. If you wish to try this treatment in Los Angeles, CA, call us today for a consultation.

Types of Thyroid Conditions

When functioning correctly, the thyroid gland produces the appropriate thyroid hormone levels. This hormone regulates almost all the body's metabolic processes. Too little or too much of these hormones could dramatically affect body weight, mental health, and energy levels.

The thyroid gland is butterfly-shaped in the front part of the neck. It is responsible for blood calcium, body weight, hormone regulation, metabolism, and energy levels. Thyroid conditions may range from an enlarged gland (harmless goiter) that requires no intervention to severe cancer.

The prevalent thyroid-related problems arise from either an underproduction or overproduction of thyroid hormones. An overproduction of hormones is called hyperthyroidism, while an underproduction is hypothyroidism. When you have an improperly functioning thyroid gland, your body could experience different symptoms.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism and Hypothyroidism

You could experience different symptoms if you have thyroid conditions. Unluckily, the signs of thyroid conditions are usually virtually like those of other stages of life and medical conditions. This could make it challenging to know whether or not your signs have something to do with a thyroid issue. In many cases, the signs can differ based on the specific thyroid condition a person has.

The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism include the following:

  • Dry hair and skin
  • Heavy and frequent menstrual periods or constipation
  • Goiter development (goiter is an enlargement in your neck)
  • Numbness or tingling in the hands
  • Increased sensitivity to cold temperatures
  • Reduced heart rate
  • Depression, lethargy, or slower mental processes
  • Gaining weight
  • Experiencing forgetfulness
  • Fatigue (feelings)
  • Experiencing a hoarse voice

The signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

  • More frequent bowel movements, at times with diarrhea
  • Excessive perspiration, nervousness, higher blood pressure, heart palpitations, and increased heart rate
  • Trembling hands, muscle weakness
  • Weight loss, even with increased appetite
  • Experiencing shorter or lighter menstrual periods,
  • Not experiencing menstrual periods at all or having irregular menstruation
  • Development of a goiter
  • Experiencing irritability and anxiety
  • Having difficulty sleeping
  • Sensitivity to heat
  • Having eye irritation or vision problems

These symptoms are usually uncomfortable or unpleasant. Nevertheless, most thyroid-related issues are well-manageable if diagnosed and addressed as they should.

Causes of Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

All forms of hyperthyroidism occur because of the excessive production of thyroid hormones. However, this condition may occur in various ways:

  • Subacute thyroiditis—This is a condition when thyroid inflammation occurs, making the gland overproduce hormones. The overproduction leads to a temporary hyperthyroidism condition that lasts some weeks but may go on for months.
  • Toxic adenoma—This is the development of nodules in the thyroid gland. The nodules then start producing hormones, disturbing the body’s chemical balance. Some goiters might contain many of these nodules.
  • Grave's disease—the secretion of excessive thyroid hormones
  • Cancerous growths in the thyroid glands or pituitary gland malfunction—hyperthyroidism could also stem from these conditions, though it is rare

Contrarily, hypothyroidism arises from the underproduction of thyroid hormones. The production of body energy requires particular thyroid hormone levels. So, if hormone production drops, it will lower body energy levels. Hypothyroidism causes include the following:

  • Exposure to too much iodide—sinus and cold medication and the heart drug amiodarone might expose you to excessive iodine. This is also true for particular contrast dyes administered before particular X-rays. You might be at a higher risk of developing hypothyroidism when you have experienced thyroid problems before.
  • Thyroid gland removal—healthcare providers could remove the thyroid gland through surgery. Or they may destroy it using chemicals.
  • Hashimoto’s thyroiditis—This illness occurs when the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. The gland then dies and ceases secreting hormones.
  • Lithium—this medicine is also deemed a cause of hypothyroidism

If not treated for an extended period, hypothyroidism may lead to myxedema coma. This is a rare, though possibly deadly, condition requiring urgent treatment of hormones. Hypothyroidism poses a special risk to newborn babies and infants. Lacking thyroid hormones in the body system at a younger age might cause intellectual disability (cretinism) and stunted growth (dwarfism).

Nowadays, most infants undergo regular checks for thyroid levels soon after being born. If they have hypothyroidism, treatment starts immediately. An infant with hypothyroidism is unusually quiet and inactive, sleeps for too long, and has a poor appetite.

Diagnosing Thyroid Conditions

Properly treating thyroid conditions is only possible after having a correct diagnosis. Various tests help determine whether the symptoms stem from a thyroid problem. These tests are:

Blood tests—the primary way to diagnose hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism is via blood tests. The tests determine whether your thyroid gland is working correctly. It does this by determining the thyroid hormone level in the blood. Doctors perform this test by drawing blood from the vein in the arm. Thyroid-related blood tests determine whether you have hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. This includes establishing whether you have these conditions:

  • Grave's disease
  • Thyroiditis
  • Goiter
  • Hashimoto's disease
  • Thyroid cancer
  • Thyroid nodule

The particular blood tests the doctor will perform in testing your thyroid include:

  • The Free T3 test: It measures the amount of free triiodothyronine (FT3) in the blood
  • The T3 test: Measures triiodothyronine (T3) in the blood
  • The FT4 test: Measures free thyroxine (FT4) in the blood
  • The T4 test: It measures the level of thyroxine in the blood
  • The TSH test: It measures the levels of TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone) in the blood

These tests may not diagnose any disease on their own. However, they might prompt the medical professional to do more tests to assess for a potential thyroid condition. This will enable you to receive the ideal remedy.

More blood tests may include:

  • Imaging tests: For most cases, examining the thyroid may answer many questions. The medical professional may conduct an imaging test known as a thyroid scan. The scan enables the doctor to examine the thyroid. They will check for increased growths (nodules), shape, or size. The doctor may also conduct an ultrasound. An ultrasound is a diagnostic test transmitting high-pitched sound waves via body tissues. Usually, the echoes are recorded and converted into photographic or video images.
  • Thyroglobulin: Doctors perform this test to diagnose thyroid inflammation (thyroiditis). The test also monitors thyroid cancer treatment.
  • Calcitonin: Doctors perform this test to diagnose medullary thyroid cancer or C-cell hyperplasia. These thyroid conditions rarely occur.
  • Thyroid antibodies: the tests help identify various forms of autoimmune thyroid conditions
  • Physical examination: Another technique for checking the thyroid gland is a physical examination. The exam is painless and simple. The doctor feels your neck for any enlargement or growth of the thyroid gland.

Clinically Diagnosing Thyroid Conditions With Acupuncture

During acupuncture therapy, your acupuncturist will insert fine needles into certain spots on the body. Needle insertion often causes some discomfort. Every acupuncturist has their own unique style of treatment. In their styles, they often blend aspects of Western and Eastern approaches to medication. Your acupuncturist might need to know about your behaviors, lifestyle, and symptoms. This will help them establish what acupuncture treatment style will be effective. They might also closely evaluate the following:

  • The strength, quality, and rhythm of the pulse in your wrist
  • Your tongue's color, coating, and shape
  • The painful body parts
  • Your face color

The initial consultation, examination, and treatment might take a maximum of sixty minutes. The second and subsequent appointments often take approximately thirty minutes. A prevalent treatment plan for one complaint would generally entail one treatment or two per week. The total number of treatment sessions depends on:

  • The thyroid condition for which you are undergoing treatment and
  • The severity of that condition

Generally, it is prevalent to undergo 6–8 treatments.

Acupuncture Treatment for Thyroid Conditions

Both Eastern and Western medicine offer different methods of restoring thyroid hormone amounts. Western treatments depend primarily on surgery and drugs. On the other hand, Eastern treatments aim to restore immune function. They also work to balance the release and production of thyroid hormones via various approaches. The approaches range from herbal remedies to acupuncture, special experiences, and lifestyle changes.

According to various studies, acupuncture is an effective treatment for hypothyroidism and hypothyroidism. Reports show that this treatment may help rectify hormonal imbalances. This includes imbalances resulting from thyroid disorders. The treatment also helps to:

  • Smooth emotions,
  • Regulate energy levels,
  • Manage sleep and emotions
  • Manage menstrual problems.

Practitioners deem acupuncture the ideal remedy for thyroid problems. Various powerful acupoints on the body and ear can regulate thyroid hormone secretion. Treatments consider all your symptoms. They aim to balance the energy in the body to improve health.

Like any disorder or disease, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) considers hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism to stem from a yin-yang imbalance in the body. TCM defines yin generally as a structure while yang is a function. TCM aims to restore balance between the two forces. Thus, acupuncture will provide the best solution for thyroid problems.

On lifestyle changes, a diet rich in magnesium, iodine, calcium, and protein supports thyroid function. On the other hand, particular foods called goitrogens might impede thyroid hormone secretion. Goitrogens include cruciferous vegetables (like Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower), soy, and peanuts. You should limit these foods. Stress-lowering exercises like Tai Chi or yoga are also beneficial.

The Mechanism of the Acupuncture Treatment

TCM takes a holistic approach to developing treatment procedures and diagnostic impressions for each patient. Its purpose is to revive the body’s capability to cure itself. Acupuncture treatment provides the ideal relief for any thyroid-related problems. TCM seeks to find the primary cause of the problem within the imbalance patterns. It determines this cause to be a kidney Yang and kidney Yin deficiency.

Acupuncturists use thin, sterilized needles. They insert these into particular points in the body, aiming to:

  • Stimulate the kidney yang,
  • Strengthen the kidney and liver yin, and
  • Clear the heat

The primary reason for the hypothyroidism condition is Yang deficiency. This is where the body’s function to transform, motivate, and warm is inadequate. The major organ systems involved are the kidney and the spleen. The heart becomes included in the more advanced stage. Per TCM, the hyperthyroidism condition is a combination of:

  • Phlegm stagnation,
  • Yin and Qi's inadequacy and
  • Liver fire uprising

Yin and Qi insufficiency is the primary cause, whereas the signs and symptoms show phlegm stagnation and liver fire.

Effectiveness of the Acupuncture Therapy

Acupuncture treatment is a vital component of TCM and relieves any thyroid-related disorder.

  • Many medical practitioners believe acupoints help stimulate muscles, connective tissue, and nerves. The stimulation may enhance the body's natural pain relievers and blood flow.
  • It entails inserting fine needles through the skin at specific points on the body. The technique most ordinarily treats pain. The concept is that it balances the life force or energy flow called chi or qi in the body.
  • People who endorse the advantages of acupuncture for diabetes cite that it stimulates endorphins. These hormones block feelings of pain and stimulate positive feelings in the body.

Advantages of Acupuncture Treatment

The acupuncture therapy principles are particularly tailored to address every person's symptoms. Note that these symptoms can vary. Acupuncture is beneficial in treating hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in various ways. These are:

  • It reduces inflammation by increasing the release of immunomodulatory and vascular factors
  • It improves joint mobility and muscle stiffness by enhancing blood circulation. This helps disperse swelling.
  • It increases the secretion of the adenosine chemical. The chemical lowers pain sensitivity.
  • It reduces stress and sensitivity to pain. It also promotes relaxation as it works on particular brain areas.
  • It increases thyroid hormone levels in patients with hypothyroidism
  • It lowers thyroid hormone levels in people with hyperthyroidism

Conventional Treatment for Thyroid Disorders

Subacute thyroiditis may lead to temporary hyperthyroidism. However, the condition does not need medical treatment. The doctor might advise you to take aspirin or acetaminophen. That will relieve the pain caused by the inflamed thyroid gland.

Generally, children below 19 years should not take aspirin. That is because studies link this drug with Reye’s syndrome. If over-the-counter medication does not help, your physician might prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs briefly. Examples of anti-inflammatory drugs are dexamethasone or prednisone.

Conventional Hypothyroidism Treatment

If you have hypothyroidism, you will have to take thyroid hormone replacement your entire life. Surgery or medication cannot boost your thyroid gland after it slows down.

Physicians generally prescribe artificial hormones like levothyroxine. Side effects rarely occur. However, some individuals experience pain or nervousness while on these drugs. Adjusting the medication dose eliminates unpleasant side effects. Let your medical professional know everything you are taking. That is because some things may impact how effectively the medicine works. Inform your doctor if:

  • You have diabetes, or you are on diabetes medication
  • You use antidepressants
  • Use the blood-thinning drug warfarin
  • You are on birth control or estrogen for hormone replacement therapy
  • You are on the heart drug, Digitalis
  • Use products and supplements that contain soy, iron, or aluminum.

Conventional Hyperthyroidism Treatment

The doctors can stop completely or slow down the production of thyroid hormones with:

Anti-thyroid drugs: Once you begin using anti-thyroid drugs, your signs and symptoms should start disappearing in approximately six to eight weeks. However, you will generally need to continue taking the drugs for about one year. Then, your physician will examine you to check whether you should stop. You will need routine checkups once you are off medication to be sure your hormones remain balanced.

Radioactive iodine treatment: Your physician may decide that radioactive treatment is ideal for your condition. In this case, you will swallow a liquid or tablet with sufficient radioactive iodine. This liquid or tablet will wreck your thyroid cells so they cannot make hormones. At times, you will require a single treatment to restore hormone production to the usual level. Many individuals develop hypothyroidism due to this procedure.

Surgery: Doctors do not usually perform surgery unless you are pregnant (and cannot use anti-thyroid drugs). Or, they will perform surgery if you have a large cancerous nodule or goiter.

Find a Professional Acupuncturist Near Me

Are you seeking the best solution for your thyroid condition in Los Angeles, CA? We at Art of Chinese Healing can help. We have expert acupuncturists currently providing treatments for various conditions. As certified acupuncturists with decades of experience, we have seen acupuncture work effectively on people with thyroid disorders. We will thoroughly examine your case and prepare a treatment plan that suits your needs. Call us at 310-405-1610 for a consultation.