Thyroid conditions affect approximately 30 million Americans, half of whom suffer undiagnosed. Thyroid damage and irregularities can lead to unexplained weight gain, weight loss, fatigue, hair loss and depression, among other debilitating side effects.
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that produces hormones which helps control the energy throughout your body, including your caloric burn and heart rate. Thyroid diseases relate to an underproduction or overproduction of this hormone, although conditions vary based on severity and cause.
Thyroid Problems
An abnormal thyroid manifests in different ways – such as the following:
- Hypothyroidism
- Hyperthyroidism
- Thyroiditis
- Thyroid Nodules
- Goiter
- Thyroid Cancer
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are the two most commonly discussed conditions, which can be viewed as opposite conditions on a spectrum. Hypothyroidism is a condition where your thyroid fails to produce enough hormones, while hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of hormones. The former, also referred to as an underactive thyroid, results in symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, mood swings and lethargy. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, is caused by an overactive thyroid that may lead to weight loss, rapid heartbeat, unexplained sweating and irritability. Hormone replacement therapy is a common treatment for hypothyroidism, while hyperthyroidism is combatted with radioactive iodine, medication and possibly surgery.
Thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid, often caused by hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid. Thyroid nodules typically don’t exhibit symptoms but showcase as a lump on the thyroid gland which are often benign and don’t require treatment. Goiter is classified as the enlargement of the thyroid due to iodine deficiency or thyroid inflammation and may or may not have side effects. Thyroid cancer can be treated with surgery, iodine, chemotherapy, radiation or hormone therapy.
Causes of Thyroid Abnormalities
The roots of your thyroid condition largely depend on the problem at hand. Patients with hyperthyroidism may have a history of Graves’ disease, toxic adenomas, thyroiditis and pituitary gland issues. Hypothyroidism is often related to excessive iodine consumption, Hashimoto’s disorder and lithium exposure.
Silver or amalgam fillings are made up of approximately 50 percent elemental mercury. Studies have shown that mercury can bind with cells in the gland and lead to an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism. Mercury is also linked to thyroid damage, autoimmune thyroiditis and hormone function impairment.
Further Health Problems Associated with Mercury Poisoning
Amalgams release vapors into the human body 24 hours a day, for as long as the filling is implanted. Methylmercury poisoning causes vision problems, cerebral palsy, hearing difficulties, growth issues, intellectual disability and microcephaly.
Assure A Smile has been providing holistic dental services in Miami since 1989. Dr. Ted Hermann uses extreme care in removing these mercury fillings from patients’ mouths and alleviate related health issues such as thyroid disease. To schedule a consultation to discuss amalgam removal in South Florida, call our office at 305-274-0047.
