Hypothyroidism is often thought of as a problem of older women. The condition is most likely to strike women who have passed the age of 50, but it can affect anyone of any age. It is usually treated with a synthetic thyroid hormone, though acupuncture can play a role in its treatment.
Function
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the front of your neck. MayoClinic.com reports that the hormones produced by the thyroid gland help to maintain the rate at which your body uses fats and carbohydrates, and it helps control your body temperature. The hormones also influence your heart rate and regulate the production of protein and the amount of calcium in the blood.
Considerations
If your thyroid isn't producing enough hormones, it's said to be underactive -- a condition called hypothyroidism. Symptoms such as mild fatigue or sluggishness can be barely noticeable at first. Over time, you might develop any number of symptoms such as increased sensitivity to cold, a puffy face, hoarse voice, constipation, high cholesterol, unexplained weight gain, muscle aches and weakness, stiff or painful joints or depression.
Diagnosis
An acupuncturist might suspect hypothyroidism in a patient based on the symptoms they describe, but a blood test can confirm the diagnosis. Endocrineweb.com explains that the test measures certain hormone levels and determines where you fall in the normal range for the hormones. Hypothyroidism occurs in many degrees of severity and some patients are more sensitive to these hormone variations than others.
Treatment
The traditional treatment for hypothyroidism is a daily dose of a synthetic thyroid hormone. The medication comes in different doses, and a doctor will monitor your hormone levels to determine what amount is right for you. The University of Maryland Medical Center cautions that if you have hypothyroidism, you need conventional medical treatment. Dr. Maoshing Ni, a doctor of Chinese medicine and medical author, echoes that belief. However, both medical sources also agree acupuncture might be able to play a roll.
Potential
According to the website Ask Dr. Mao, acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine herbal formulations help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with hypothyroidism. The website also reports that acupuncture might help with side effects of thyroid medicines. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes acupuncture might be helpful in correcting hormonal imbalances, including thyroid disorders, as long as it is used in conjunction with conventional hormone treatments.
Warning
The conventional treatment for hypothyroidism is simple, and not seeking treatment could have serious consequences. MayoClinic.com warns that advanced hypothyroidism, a condition called myxedema, is rare. However, it can be life-threatening when it occurs. Myxedema can lead to low blood pressure, decreased breathing and decreased body temperature. In extreme cases, it can cause unresponsiveness, coma or death.
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