What Is a Goiter?
The thyroid is the gland situated at the base of the neck. Responsible for regulating metabolism, the thyroid serves an important purpose in the body; however, several issues can arise in relation to this gland. One such condition is a goiter or an enlargement of the thyroid gland. While goiters are generally painless, an extremely large goiter may cause a cough as well as difficulty swallowing and breathing.
All goiters do not cause signs or symptoms. Some common signs and symptoms have been identified as indicative of goiters, though. A visible growth or enlargement at the base of the neck is one of the trademark signs of a goiter. Additional symptoms include a tightness in the throat, coughing or hoarseness, trouble swallowing and difficulty breathing.
The thyroid gland is responsible for producing two hormones – thyroxine and triiodothyronine – and works in conjunction with the pituitary gland and hypothalamus to regulate the rate at which these hormones are produced and released. While a disruption in these processes may result in a goiter, having a goiter does not necessarily mean that an individual’s thyroid is not functioning normally. One of the main factors contributing to a goiter or thyroid problem is an iodine deficiency. Other issues may cause a goiter including such diseases as Graves’ disease, Hashimoto’s disease, cancer of the thyroid gland. Additionally pregnancy can cause changes in the thyroid.
Natural Goiter Remedies and Thyroid Treatment
Whatever the cause of a goiter, several natural remedies serve as effective goiter and thyroid treatments. Apple cider vinegar taken daily works to shrink a goiter and regulate the body’s systems naturally. Kelp powder, bladderwrack and iodine supplements are also effective options for treating a goiter. Likewise, minimizing stress and participating in calming activities such as yoga help relieve fatigue and adrenal stimulation and may also help diminish a goiter or thyroid issue.