Is Your Depression From An Undiagnosed Thyroid Condition?
 Did you know that thyroid conditions can cause depression? Depressive disorders are often related to malfunctions of signals transmitted between the brain and central nervous system. This includes signals to our key organs and glands.
This tiny gland, situated in the neck at the throat's base, regulates the body's metabolism. It weighs only .5 percent of the body's total weight, but holds 25 percent of the total iodine content obtained from food and water.
The thyroid secretes essential hormones that affect nearly every bodily tissue where it increases cellular activity -- thereby affecting almost every organ and working system in the body including heart rate, weight, energy, strength of muscles, skin conditions, sight, menstruation, mental health, and many more.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive) can appear suddenly or slowly, but can be so numerous and so persistent, that (1) living with these symptoms in itself can cause depression, especially if the disease is undiagnosed as in approximately 13 million Americans, or (2) the depression comes from the imbalanced chemical state of the brain's neurotransmitters, and a malfunctioning gland due to autoimmune disease, too much iodine or other factors.
Thyroid Malfunctions can go Undiagnosed in "Regular" Tests
Overactive and underactive thyroid symptoms can cross over, with people having several from both categories, making it hard to diagnose or causing an incorrect, simplified diagnosis of just "stress" or "mild depression". The person may be put on wrong medication or may not be given correct advice.
- Hypothyroidism: Cold extremities, fatigue, constipation, cramps, depression, mood swings, low temperature and respiratory infections, dry and brittle hair, yellow-toned dry skin, fluid retention and weight gain, menstrual problems, raised cholesterol.
- Hyperthyroidism: Irritability, nervousness, sleep disturbances, muscle weakness/tremors, irregular menstrual periods, weight loss, bulging eyes and heat intolerance (people with overactive thyroid can be cold even at moderate temperatures, and can also experience depression, although less frequently noted).
If you suspect you may be suffering from a thyroid condition related depression, you should speak to your doctor. While there are many effective prescription medications available to treat thyroid conditions and depression, there are also a variety of all-natural supplements that may help to relieve your symptoms. Consider supplements that contain:
- Kelp: A rich source of natural vitamins, minerals and amino acids, kelp promotes healthy glandular function by regulating the thyroid.
- Bayberry: A stimulating astringent that raises vitality, improves circulation and balances hormones.
- Black Walnut: Abundant in organic iodine and manganese to nourish and strengthen the gland's function, it helps to improve a sluggish metabolism.
For more information about thyroid conditions and how you may be able to control your mild symptoms with all-natural herbal supplements, speak with your health care provider.
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