Hypothyroidism, Neurotransmitters, and Brain Function
Hypothyroidism is a growing concern among Americans, especially among women. Estimates claim that over 20 million Americans currently have a thyroid condition, with the majority of these thyroid imbalances being hypothyroidism.
For most patients, symptoms such as hair loss, fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, and brain fog become frustrating enough, that the patient chooses to make a doctor’s appointment. Once the appointment is made with the doctor, and a medical history and physical exam are performed, laboratory blood tests normally follow. The most commonly prescribed test for thyroid symptoms is the Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) test.
According to Dr. Datis Kharrazian’s book, Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms?, “A doctor should not evaluate thyroid function without considering the brain, which is saturated with thyroid hormone receptor sites.” Hypothyroidism is not a linear disease process, that is to say, when the thyroid gland becomes dysfunctional other bodily systems compensate as well. Due to the amount of thyroid hormone receptors in the brain, neurological symptoms frequently accompany hypothyroidism. “Neurological symptoms” can sound ominous, and hypothyroidism certainly does not equate to neurological imbalance to the level of an individual that has multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Hypothyroidism leads to a decrease in thyroid hormone production. The tissues of the brain are saturated with thyroid hormone receptor sites, or places that accept thyroid hormones in order to fulfill physiological mechanisms. When the brain does not receive thyroid hormones into the receptor sites, neurotransmitter production declines, leading to additional symptoms related to brain chemistry imbalance. This imbalance perpetuates an inflammatory cascade which leads to further brain degeneration, fewer neurotransmitters, and further inflammation. This of course leads to more symptoms.
In addition to the classic thyroid symptoms that an individual was already experiencing, brain and neurotransmitter symptoms typically associate with either the neurotransmitter serotonin, or the neurotransmitter dopamine.
Serotonin deficiency symptoms can include:
- Depression
- Unprovoked anger
- Increased susceptibility to pain
- Lack of enthusiasm to favorite foods, friends, activities, etc.
- Inner rage
- Feelings of being overwhelmed
- Apathy
- Inability to fall into a deep/restful sleep
- Feelings of dependency on others
- Difficulty enjoying relationships
Dopamine deficiency symptoms can include:
- Feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness
- Inability to handle stress
- Decreased sex drive
- Short tempered/lose temper for minor issues
- Desire to isolate one’s self from others
- Lack of concern for loved ones
- Easily distracted
- Self destructive thoughts
- Easily angered
- Increased aggression, especially under stress
- Need for caffeine to be alert
Patients that demonstrate symptoms of hypothyroidism frequently experience symptoms of neurotransmitter imbalance. Evaluating a patient’s thyroid health, and brain health is an essential step in helping the patient to achieve the level of health they deserve. Doctor’s at The Hayden Institute are trained to leave no stone unturned when it comes to getting to the cause of a patient’s symptoms. In addition be being doctors of chiropractic, Drs. Chase and Reece Hayden are trained in Quantum Neurology rehabilitation, and have extensive training in Functional Endocrinology.
Do you experience hypothyroidism or other thyroid symptoms that do not seem to be improving? There may be more to your specific symptoms than an out of range “TSH” blood test.
