Abstract

HYPOTHYROIDISM – A SILENT PHENOMENON

Rai Amit Kumar* and Deepshikha

Abstract

Hypothyroidism is a commonly prevailing disorder in adult Indian population. It is second only to diabetes mellitus as the most common endocrine disorder. It is a clinical syndrome resulting from deficiency of thyroid hormones due to their insufficient synthesis which in turn results in a generalized slowing down of metabolic processes. It is characterized by a broad clinical spectrum ranging from an asymptomatic or subclinical condition with normal levels of T4 and T3 and mildly elevated levels of serum TSH to an overt state of myxedema, end-organ effects and multisystem failure. The symptoms of hypothyroidism are notorious for their non-specific nature and for the way in which they mimic many symptoms of other diseases. So it often remains undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. The analysis of the pathogenesis and manifestations of hypothyroidism in the light of Ayurvedic principles showed that hypothyroidism occurs due to dysfunction of Agni (entity essential for digestion and metabolism). The modern treatment of hypothyroidism is Levothyroxine sodium but it has certain side-effects on long term use. So, there is a great need to find out a safe and effective remedy which not only relieve symptoms but also increase in sense of well-being leading to better compliance. It can be traced from unsheathed treasure of Ayurveda.

Keywords: Hypothyroidism, Dhatvagnimandya, Agni, Treatment of Hypothyroidism through Ayurveda, Kanchnar Guggulu.