It might take some trial and error for your doctor to find the right levothyroxine dose for you. Be ready for a blood test every few weeks to check your levels. Your doctor might adjust your dose up or down, depending on the results. The most common side effects of this medication are increased appetite, insomnia, heart palpitations, and shakiness.
Most people get all the iodine they need from iodized salt. You can also get it from seafood, seaweed and kelp, and dairy products. [5] X Research source Don’t use iodine supplements unless your doctor tells you to. If you’re not careful, you could take too much and trigger other thyroid problems. [6] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Iodine deficiency is very rare. It usually only happens in developing countries that don’t have access to iodine-containing foods.
If you only have soy occasionally, ask your doctor if that’s okay. It’s usually only a problem in high doses.
Other cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale, or cauliflower could also be a problem, but don’t make big dietary changes without asking your doctor first. Otherwise, you could end up with vitamin deficiencies.
Some products might have a different suggested dosage, so always follow the dosing directions provided. Always ask your doctor before taking herbal supplements, especially if you’re already on medication.
Overdosing on zinc could cause constipation and other intestinal problems, so follow the dosing instructions and ask your doctor if taking zinc is safe for you.
Radioactive iodine to shrink your thyroid and stop it from overreacting. Anti-thyroid medications like Tapazole to stop your thyroid from producing too many hormones. Beta-blockers to treat the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. These usually don’t cure the condition but alleviate its effects.
Avoid iodized salt, seafood, and seaweed and kelp. Check other food items for their iodine content so you don’t eat too much. Hyperthyroidism from too much iodine is very rare. More often, a hormone imbalance in your body is to blame.
In general, adults need 1,000-2,000 mg of calcium each day. You can get this from supplements or your regular diet.
Keep your eyes lubricated with artificial tears or prescription eye drops.
A balanced diet should provide all of the vitamins and nutrients you need. Only use supplements if your doctor tells you to. Also try to avoid unhealthy items like processed, fried, sugary, and fatty foods.
Different people might need different amounts of water, so this number is just a guideline. If you feel thirsty or your urine is dark yellow, then drink more water. Try to drink plain water instead of juices or soda, which contain a lot of sugar. If you want some extra flavor, try adding fruit to a glass of water.
Foods with selenium include Brazil nuts, fish and shellfish, organ meats, poultry, eggs, and dairy products.
Aerobic exercise is helpful if you have hypothyroidism. It will help you keep your weight down and your energy up. If you have Grave’s disease, a condition that can cause hyperthyroidism, then do weight-bearing exercises to keep your bone density up.
Try some relaxation exercises like meditation or deep breathing. Even 15-20 minutes each day could make you feel much better. Making time for your hobbies is another great way to relieve stress. Stress is also a major risk factor for Grave’s disease, which could trigger an overactive thyroid.
If you have any liver or health problems from drinking, then it’s best to quit altogether.
Secondhand smoke can also cause health problems, so don’t let anyone smoke in your home either.
