Hashimoto’s is the main cause of hypothyroidism and if you want to get well it is important to consider your unique risk factors, root causes, and triggers.
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease just like multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus, psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to name a few, in which the immune system has lost self-tolerance and attacks various tissues. I referenced these conditions mainly because they are commonly known – however, there are many autoimmune conditions. Actually, there is an autoimmune condition to attack almost every cell and tissue in the body.
- Lupus is the result of the immune system targeting the skin, joints, and/or internal organs.
- MS results when the immune system attacks the myelin sheath (a protective covering) of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
- Psoriasis happens when the immune system targets cells of the skin and is most common on the knees, elbows, scalp, torso, palms and soles of the feet.
- RA occurs when the immune system attacks the joints.
- In Hashimoto’s, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. It isn’t that the thyroid gland itself is the problem; however, low thyroid function is one of the many results. Replacement thyroid hormone alone doesn’t reverse Hashimoto’s although it is often necessary, as well as taking a close look at possible triggers and root cause issues.
There are approximately 80 to 100 autoimmune diseases that we know of and despite what the “label” is that we call each one in my view, they’re basically all the same…it’s just that the immune system is targeting and attacking different tissues in each one. Autoimmune conditions are progressive and if you’ve been diagnosed with one autoimmune disease, you are at risk for being diagnosed with secondary autoimmune diseases. Hashimoto’s also raises the risk factor for thyroid cancer.
It is possible to get into remission, however.
Hypothyroidism is defined as abnormal low activity of the thyroid gland.
It may or may not be caused by Hashimoto’s.
If it is not caused by Hashimoto’s, replacement thyroid medication and getting to the root cause is indicated.
If hypothyroidism is caused by Hashimoto’s, using only replacement thyroid hormone will not address the underlying issue: your immune system is targeting your thyroid.
I encourage you to consider your risk factors.
Get your copy of my free e-Guide to help consider your unique root causes, triggers, and/or genetic factors.
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EXPLORING YOUR RISK FACTORS FOR HASHIMOTO’S
Additional resources you might consider:
- The Hashi’s Sister’s Autoimmune & Thyroid e-Course (free)
- The Autoimmune Wellness Handbook by Mickey Trescott and Angie Alt
- Most Popular Article: Hashimoto’s & Shoulder Pain
- The Hashi’s Sister’s DIY Thyroid Detox
An optimal treatment protocol including lifestyle interventions (nutrition, movement, stress-reduction, reversing adrenal fatigue, hormone balance, target nutrients, etc) is one that is designed per your unique circumstances.
Despite what Dr. Google says, or the wisdom various Facebook groups and books offer (although these may be excellent references) everyone’s Hashimoto’s journey is different – as is the approach to getting into remission.
Have you been diagnosed with a secondary autoimmune condition? Which came first, Hashimoto’s or a different AI disease?
Which came first, Hashimoto’s or a different AI disease?
Send me an email and let me know which risk factors apply to you!
