For years, people have associated hypothyroidism with women. The truth is that two out of every ten men also have hypothyroidism. Whether you have been treating hypothyroidism for years or have just been diagnosed, you should explore the advances in stem cell therapies for patients with hypothyroidism because new advances are popping up these days.
The Mighty Thyroid
The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your throat. If it sat outside your throat, it would look like a small, fleshy bowtie! While most people have no idea what it does, it performs one of the body’s biggest jobs.
This small organ is essential for your body to function. The thyroid is responsible for regulating your growth, physical development, and metabolism. The hormones the thyroid releases into your blood are critical for maintaining your muscle mass, digestion, heart function, brain function, and bone strength. The one thing your thyroid does not do is produce iodine. Luckily, you can get that from iodized salt!.
Who’s at Risk?
While 10% of all hypothyroidism cases are female, men are also likely to get. Because the symptoms can mimic other illnesses, men are less likely to see the doctor for a diagnosis. While hypothyroidism isn’t genetic, it can run in families.The word hypothyroid tells you what it is—hypo meaning low and thyroid meaning belonging to the thyroid. Or underactive thyroid. Individuals with hypothyroidism have a slow metabolism due to not producing enough thyroid hormone.
There are four types of hypothyroidism:
Primary hypothyroidism attacks the thyroid gland by producing less thyroid hormone. The pituitary then increases its production of TSH (Thyroid-stimulating Hormone). Hashimoto’s disease can cause hypothyroidism, thyroid surgery, and radiation exposure.
Secondary hypothyroidism is an underactive pituitary gland (located at the base of the brain. Secondary hypothyroidism halts the production of TSH to your thyroid.
Tertiary hypothyroidism involves your hypothalamus, which is located in the brain and maintains homeostasis — your body’s way of keeping you at your optimal health through temperature regulation, blood sugar regulation, and minor corrections in body function throughout the day and night.. When the body doesn’t make enough thyrotropin-releasing hormone, the pituitary gland doesn’t make enough TSH.
Subclinical Hypothyroidism is a mild of thyroid failure where your TSH level is elevated, but the other thyroid hormones are normal. The elevated TSH eventually reverses itself.
The Causes of Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism can run in families, though it is not genetic. In some cases, it is congenital. For some people, it happens as they age. It can be induced by certain drugs or by another disease. No matter how you get it, it is treatable. Those who choose not to be treated can become very sick very quickly.
Could You Be Symptomatic?
The symptoms of hypothyroidism are the same as those of many other diseases, making it harder to diagnose. In females, it wreaks havoc on the menstrual cycle. It can slow your heart rate, increase weight gain, brain fog, dry out your skin, raise your cholesterol, cause fatigue that makes you want to nap during the day, cause hair loss, constipate you, and make you depressed. Diagnosing hypothyroidism is as easy as getting a blood test.
Treating Hypothyroidism
Current treatments include a synthetic hormone replacement. For it to be effective, it has to be taken on an empty stomach an hour before you eat. Skipping a dose or two makes it much less effective.
Over-the-counter hormone replacement should be done only under your primary caregiver or an endocrinologist. Hypothyroidism is different for everyone, and for one person who has a hard time regulating their thyroid, there are a few more who are managing very well.
Like treatments for other conditions, the side effects of the medication may not be pleasant, and you may be looking for an option that you feel comfortable with. If you don’t enjoy the side effects, try a different med or treatment options. Some people are lucky, and the medication reverses their hypothyroidism. But, for most of us, staying on the hormone replacement will be lifelong.
The goal of stem cell therapy for thyroid treatment is to regulate the immune system and promote new thyroid tissue growth. Unfortunately, getting government approval takes a long time.
Advances in Stem Cells for Hypothyroidism
Our specialists at StemLife Clinic use mesenchymal stem cells derived from Wharton’s jelly in post-birth placentas. The Wharton’s jelly is used in an injection or administered through infusion. You remain awake during infusions while the staff monitors you.
Once you have received stem cell therapy, the new cells begin decreasing inflammation and lessening any discomfort. The stem cells go where they are needed most and start making new stem cells and rejuvenating the mature cells. Once the treatment ends, you can expect to feel better in a few weeks. The infusion will continue to create new cells while revitalizing older cells for weeks to months afterward.
Stem cells are not a cure, but when used with your current regimen, they can help improve your symptoms by enhancing thyroid function and improving the quality of your life. But not everyone is a good candidate for stem cells. At your consultation, the specialist will go over your medical history, and together you will develop a treatment plan.
Researchers are pushing to find a cure for Thyroid diseases; it may take some time. Clinical researchers are working on hormone therapies that are tissue-specific and personalized medical approaches using environmental. The future hypothyroidism treatments will be through stem cell
Our expert staff at Stem Life Clinic is dedicated to treating patients using mesenchymal stem cells. They offer a unique stem cell experience, delivered by highly trained doctors in a relaxing environment. We are committed to providing stem cells at better rates than Canada and the USA to ensure those who need them can afford them.
If you or someone you love has hypothyroidism or another endocrine disease, contact us today!
