Overactive thyroid and exhaustion: Connection explained and coping strategies provided
News Article: Managing Fatigue in Hyperthyroidism: Tips for Improving Energy Levels
Hyperthyroidism, a condition characterized by an overactive thyroid gland, can lead to various symptoms, including fatigue. This article provides tips for people with hyperthyroidism to improve their sleep and energy levels.
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormones, which can disrupt sleep, cause muscle weakness, and lead to feelings of fatigue, despite occasional feelings of jitteriness or high energy levels. Proper treatment aims to normalize hormone levels, reducing overstimulation that exhausts the body.
To manage hyperthyroidism and its symptoms, doctors may prescribe antithyroid drugs to stop the thyroid from producing hormones. These medications help manage the condition over time, generally reducing fatigue and improving energy levels.
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can also help combat fatigue and tiredness associated with hyperthyroidism. These changes include:
- Avoiding stimulants before bed: Consuming alcohol, caffeine, and large meals before bedtime can disrupt sleep and exacerbate feelings of fatigue.
- Eating regularly: Consuming regular meals and healthy snacks can help maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.
- Exercising regularly: Regular exercise can boost energy levels and improve overall health.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Achieving and maintaining a moderate weight can reduce the burden on the body and help alleviate feelings of fatigue.
- Reducing stress: Chronic stress can contribute to feelings of fatigue. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce stress levels.
- Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help maintain energy levels and overall health.
- Getting enough sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for restoring energy and maintaining overall health.
It's essential to note that some people with hyperthyroidism may still experience lingering feelings of fatigue even after treatment. In such cases, planning activities for times when they feel well-rested and scheduling periods of relaxation can help manage energy levels.
In some cases, hyperthyroidism treatment may lead to hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, which can also cause fatigue. If this occurs, further treatment may be necessary.
Lastly, it's important to remember that both thyroid and adrenal glands affect energy levels. Addressing thyroid function alone may not fully resolve fatigue if adrenal dysfunction is present. A comprehensive approach can maximize energy improvements.
In the United States, around 70% of adults with hyperthyroidism undergo radioactive iodine treatment. This treatment can lead to hypothyroidism, which requires additional management to alleviate symptoms like fatigue.
In summary, by correcting the overproduction of thyroid hormones, hyperthyroidism treatment helps reduce fatigue and restore more stable and normal energy levels. Lifestyle changes can further support these efforts, and addressing any underlying adrenal dysfunction can help maximize the benefits of treatment.
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[2] Adrenal Insufficiency. (n.d.). Retrieved April 04, 2023, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adrenal-insufficiency/symptoms-causes/syc-20375110
[4] Hyperthyroidism: Treatment, Complications, and Outlook. (n.d.). Retrieved April 04, 2023, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyperthyroidism/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20375626
[5] Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms and Causes. (n.d.). Retrieved April 04, 2023, from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hyperthyroidism/symptoms/
- The underactive thyroid gland condition, hypothyroidism, can also cause fatigue, potentially arising in situations where hyperthyroidism treatment has led to a normalization of hormone levels.
- Proper management of mental health is vital in complementing the treatment of hyperthyroidism and its symptoms, considering that chronic stress can exacerbate feelings of fatigue.
- Maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrition is crucial for sustaining both energy levels and overall health, an essential part of any health and wellness routine.
- Besides medication, fitness and exercise play a significant role in boosting energy levels for individuals with hyperthyroidism, contributing to their overall well-being.
- Addressing adrenal gland function is crucial to achieving comprehensive energy management, as both the thyroid and adrenal glands significantly impact energy levels.
