Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, also known as Hashimoto’s disease, is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the thyroid, leading to a condition called hypothyroidism. In this case, the thyroid produces less thyroxine hormone, up to a level adequate for the body’s needs.

Although the exact causes of Hashimoto’s disease have yet to be determined, some of the important contributors that have been found to play a role are estrogen dominance condition, excessive iodine intake, radiation exposure, and genetic factors. . This disease affects women eight times more often than men, suggesting that estrogen and progesterone may have an important role to play. One can diagnose the disease by its symptoms: an enlarged thyroid or goiter accompanied by hypothyroidism and abnormal blood levels of autoantibodies.

In addition to the above symptoms, some of the other symptoms of Hashimoto’s are joint and muscle pain, fatigue, weight gain, slow heart rate, constipation, and sometimes numbness or tingling in the hands and feet due to poor production of energy and circulation. To diagnose and find out the real causes of this thyroid problem, a Chinese acupuncturist will analyze all the symptoms, the tongue, the pulse, and the results of the blood tests.

Acupuncture treatment and medication.

Hashimoto’s patients must take pills containing thyroxine: a lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Getting qualified acupuncture treatment for Hashimoto’s along with TCM and making diet and lifestyle changes has been shown to be very effective in reducing symptoms and keeping medications at the lowest possible dose.

A Boston Chinese acupuncturist will give you a differential diagnosis based on your symptoms, pulse, and tongue reading. Acupuncture treatments can balance your immune function and reduce inflammation in your thyroid glands, so your body will no longer make antibodies to attack your thyroid glands.

You may be able to maintain some of your thyroid function and only have to take very small doses of Synthroid. Chinese herbs combined with acupuncture can help patients digest food better, improve their energy production so they can be more active, and sleep better with less aches and pains. Also, a high dose of thyroid hormones can be life-threatening: it can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to heart failure.

Treatment duration for lasting results

People suffering from Hashimoto’s disease require comprehensive and expert treatment only by experienced acupuncturists. Receiving treatment twice or once a week for three months reduces symptoms and helps achieve harmony to rejuvenate thyroid function. People with large goiters and long-standing problems may need weekly treatment for 6 to 12 months depending on their age and health conditions to help them reduce their medication intake and normalize their hormonal balance.

Consulting an experienced acupuncturist and following a well-designed acupuncture treatment protocol will provide patients with adequate relief. Insertion of hair-thin needles into specific acupuncture points triggers the release of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, stimulates blood flow, reduces stress and relieves pain. Balances the immune system and helps patients feel energetic.

Experts suggest receiving acupuncture treatment for Hashimoto’s disease along with other natural treatment methods for maximum benefits. In addition to acupuncture treatment, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and meditation will go a long way in reducing stress and help Hashimoto patients recover faster.