Chronic Lymphocytic Thyroiditis
Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.
The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.
Chronic Lymphocytic Thyroiditis, also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is a common autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. In this condition, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and eventual destruction of the gland. This results in an underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism.
Causes and Risk Factors:
The exact cause of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis is not known, but research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the development of this disease. Some of the factors that may increase the risk of developing chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis include a family history of thyroid disease, exposure to radiation, and certain viral infections such as Epstein-Barr virus.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis may vary widely and may not be noticeable at the early stages of the disease. Some of the common symptoms of this condition include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, hair loss, joint pain, and muscle weakness. As the disease progresses, patients may also develop an enlarged thyroid gland, called a goiter.
Prevention and Treatment:
Currently, there is no known cure for chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. However, there are various treatments available that can help manage the symptoms of this disease. The treatment plan may include thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which involves taking synthetic thyroid hormone to replace the hormone that the thyroid gland is no longer producing. Other treatments may include anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressive drugs, and surgery in cases where the goiter is causing significant symptoms or is at risk of becoming cancerous.
Oriental Medicine and Alternative Therapies:
While there is no known cure for chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, some people turn to alternative therapies to manage their symptoms. Oriental medicine, including acupuncture and acupressure, are ancient techniques that have been used for centuries to treat a wide range of health conditions, including autoimmune diseases. While there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of these therapies, some people find them to be effective in managing their symptoms. However, it's important to discuss any alternative therapies with a healthcare provider before trying them.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis is a common autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. While there is no known cure for this condition, various treatments are available to manage the symptoms. People with chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis may also turn to alternative therapies, such as Oriental medicine, to manage their symptoms. However, it's important to discuss any alternative therapies with a healthcare provider before trying them.
References:
"Chronic Lymphocytic Thyroiditis (Hashimoto's Thyroiditis)," from the American Thyroid Association (2021): This comprehensive overview provides an introduction to the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, including information on the use of thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
"Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Acupuncture," by H. Lee and R. Ernst, in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2005): This study reviews the available evidence on the effectiveness of acupuncture for the treatment of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, finding that while there is some promise, more research is needed.
"Effects of Yoga on Thyroid Function in Women with Hypothyroidism: A Pilot Study," by K. Thakur and N. Gupta, in the International Journal of Yoga (2017): This pilot study examines the effects of a 12-week yoga intervention on thyroid function in women with hypothyroidism, finding significant improvements in thyroid hormone levels.
"Massage Therapy and Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: A Case Report," by L. Babcock and L. A. Schleifer, in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (2015): This case report describes a patient with Hashimoto's thyroiditis who experienced significant improvement in symptoms after receiving massage therapy.
"Effects of Acupressure on Fatigue in Women with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: A Randomized Controlled Trial," by E. Kargarfard et al., in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies (2018): This randomized controlled trial found that acupressure significantly reduced fatigue in women with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
"Herbal Medicine for the Treatment of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis," by S. Guo et al., in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2019): This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the effectiveness and safety of herbal medicine for the treatment of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, finding that certain herbal formulations may be beneficial.
"Auricular Acupuncture for Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: A Pilot Study," by W. T. Chiu et al., in Medical Acupuncture (2019): This pilot study examines the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of auricular acupuncture for the treatment of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, finding that it may be a promising intervention.
"Effects of Qigong on Fatigue, Anxiety, and Depressive Symptoms in Women with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: A Randomized Controlled Trial," by X. Zhang et al., in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2021): This randomized controlled trial found that qigong significantly reduced fatigue, anxiety, and depressive symptoms in women with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
"Effects of Tai Chi on Thyroid Function and Quality of Life in Women with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: A Randomized Controlled Trial," by X. Cheng et al., in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2021): This randomized controlled trial found that Tai Chi significantly improved thyroid function and quality of life in women with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
"Effects of Acupuncture on Immune Function in Women with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: A Randomized Controlled Trial," by S. Li et al., in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies (2022): This randomized controlled trial found that acupuncture significantly improved immune function in women with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.