This topic causes lots of confusion and can affect your treatment.
If you've been diagnosed with Hashimoto's, you might have been scratching your head about the differences between the two. Don't worry; you're not alone!
First, let's get to know what Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism are.
Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks your thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage to the gland.
As a result, your thyroid gland may not produce enough hormones, leading to hypothyroidism. So Hashimoto's is a form of hypothyroidism.
Then, what is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a condition where your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones to function properly. The thyroid hormones control many vital functions in your body, including regulating your body's metabolism, your heart rate, body temperature, and energy levels. There are many causes of hypothyroidism.
To put it simply, Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune condition that can cause hypothyroidism, but not all cases of hypothyroidism are due to Hashimoto's disease.
Hypothyroidism can also be caused by other factors such as iodine deficiency, radiation treatment, obesity, poor gut function, or surgery.
It's crucial to understand that Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism have different causes and treatments.
While hypothyroidism can solved with a straight forwards treatment of synthetic thyroid hormone medication, iodine supplementation, simple lifestyle changes, Hashimoto's disease requires a more holistic approach. To manage Hashimoto's disease, you need to also manage the inflammation and immune system response that's causing the damage to your thyroid gland. You will also have to address other parts of your body that may have been affected by your immune system like your gut, brain, heart, etc.
If you have Hashimoto's disease, it's essential to work with a naturopathic doctor or other health professional to develop a treatment plan that's tailored to your specific needs. While there isn't a cure for Hashimoto's disease, there are ways to manage the condition effectively, and with proper treatment, you can reverse your symptoms and achieve long-term remission.
So Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism are NOT the same thing, but they are related. The way to differentiate between Hashimoto's and hypothyroidism is by testing thyroid antibodies. If you have positive antibodies, you have an autoimmune thyroid condition NOT just hypothyroidism so thyroid hormones alone will not fix the problem.
As someone with Hashimoto's disease, it's vital to understand the differences between the two so you can receive effective treatment. If you're ready to start reversing your Hashimoto’s symptoms, then schedule a free discovery call HERE.
Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep slaying, ladies!
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