THE THYROID ADRENAL CONNECTION
I want to devote some time in today’s post to discuss the connection between thyroid function and adrenal fatigue syndrome. The reality is that in most of the adrenal fatigue cases I’ve researched, as well as in my own situation, there is a direct connection between the two glands. To begin, let’s review the basic functions of the thyroid gland. Located in the neck, the thyroid is one of the largest glands in the endocrine system. It is involved in numerous functions including; making proteins, regulating energy and hormone distribution. The thyroid is controlled by the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary glands. The two most common problems related to thyroid function are conditions called hyper and hypo thyroidism. In the hyper condition, the thyroid gland produces too much of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4. Hypothyroidism is the opposite scenario, in which too little T3 and T4 are produced. Both cases are cause for concern and are usually identified via a blood test to check hormone levels. In the case of the blood analysis the doctor will pay careful attention to the level of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) triggered by the pituitary. In the event TSH, T3 and T4 are all low or all elevated, the problem likely stems from the pituitary gland. If one, say TSH is low and T3 and T4 are high the thyroid itself is typically to blame. So what does this all have to do with adrenal fatigue syndrome? The point is to be aware and be empowered to treat your overall condition. If you have or suspect you have adrenal fatigue, have been treating it for a while, and still aren’t feeling quite like yourself, I would encourage you to work with your progressive medical doctor or naturopath and examine your thyroid situation. What can complicate matters is that some of the common symptoms of thyroid imbalance mimic those of adrenal fatigue – heart palpitations, fatigue, weight fluctuations, and sleep disturbances.