Treatment Options For Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism might be the less common of the two main types of thyroid conditions, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t affect a lot of people. If you are someone diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, the following treatment options are available.

Medications

Most types of thyroid conditions can get better with the right medications, and hyperthyroidism is no exception. With an overactive thyroid, you need anti-thyroid medications. These should help to reduce the amount of hormones that your thyroid gland is producing while also helping to ease some of the thyroid symptoms and side effects. However, keep in mind that there is a slight risk of developing an underactive thyroid. Make sure you follow your doctor’s orders for taking the medication and get repeat bloodwork every few months. The prescription might change and need to be adjusted.

Beta Blockers

Beta blockers are medications that are usually given to people who have high blood pressure. While they can’t directly reduce your thyroid hormone levels, they help with side effects related to your heart rate. With hyperthyroidism, you have a risk of a rapid heart rate and the resulting heart palpitations. Since these can affect your cardiovascular health, it is important to take something to slow down your heart rate to a reasonable level. This is what the beta blockers are going to help with.

Surgery

While it is not a common treatment remedy, surgery is sometimes requires. The surgery to help with an overactive thyroid is called a thyroidectomy. This procedure requires removing the majority of the thyroid gland, which is why it is only done in the more severe cases. If you are not responding to home treatments or drugs for your overactive thyroid and you are having serious side effects as a result of your hyperthyroidism, then this might be a good option for you.

Home Remedies

Don’t forget that there are also some home remedies available if you have hyperthyroidism. You can change your diet and add in some of the nutritious fruits, veggies, and protein sources that will help to normalize your hormone levels. You can also try using certain essential oils at home that will help with the side effects caused by your thyroid condition. If you are dealing with extreme weight loss to a dangerous level, then your doctor might recommend increasing your calories, such as with high-calorie protein drinks.

