Can Stress Cause Hyperthyroidism? The Science Behind the Connection
When facing a health issue, such as hyperthyroidism, it can be tempting to search for its cause. You may wonder: Can hyperthyroidism be caused by stress?
And you aren’t alone– it is a popular online search filled with many people wondering about the connection. Stress is known to impact the body in numerous ways, including hormonal imbalances, which may complicate thyroid disorders.
This article will discuss the connection between stress and hyperthyroidism, how stress exacerbates symptoms, and how to minimize stress in your daily life. Understanding this link between stress and the thyroid can empower you to take better control of your thyroid health, manage your symptoms better, and improve your well-being for the long term.
Table of Contents
Can Hyperthyroidism Be Triggered by Stress?
Stress, particularly chronic stress, may influence thyroid function. While stress is not considered a root cause of hyperthyroidism, stress may worsen hyperthyroidism and make it more challenging to manage. It is important to understand the connection stress has on the thyroid and ways to manage it to reduce symptoms.
Stress and Hyperthyroidism: How the Two Are Related
Stress is not known to cause hyperthyroidism directly, but they are related. For those who have symptoms of hyperthyroidism, stress may exacerbate them.
Some
symptoms of hyperthyroidism to be aware of include:
- Weight-loss
- Increased heart-rate
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Anxiety
- Brittle hair
- Trouble Sleeping
- Uncontrolled or frequent bowel movements
- Sensitivity to heat
It is essential to remember these symptoms and contact a healthcare professional if you are experiencing them.
When it comes to stress, two main types of stress may make hyperthyroidism worse: mental stress and physical stress.
Metal stress includes:
- Job issues
- Financial problems
- Health problems
- Relationship problems
Physical stress includes:
- Injuries
- Illness
- Infections
- Lack of sleep
- Improper nutrition
- Lack of movement
If you are looking for ways to lower your stress and help your hyperthyroidism, Healthier U has you covered! Dr. Sergi works with you to examine your symptoms and make practical suggestions to aid in healing through food. Request a
free consultation today to get started.
How Stress Exacerbates Thyroid Issues
When it comes to thyroid issues, stress is not a welcome friend.
What is the science behind stress and thyroid issues?
Can hyperthyroidism be caused by stress?
There are a few ways that stress may hinder thyroid function: hormonal imbalance, inflammation, and immune system activation
.
- Hormonal imbalance: The thyroid gland works with the adrenal glands for proper function. The adrenal glands manage your body’s stress response by making cortisol, which helps the body balance stress. However, when cortisol levels remain elevated due to chronic stress, it slows the pituitary gland from making thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is essential for metabolism, energy, and thyroid function. When these levels drop, your thyroid stops working. This specific chain of events leads to
hypothyroidism.
- Inflammation: Chronic stress may lead to inflammation, which can interfere with normal thyroid function. This may lead to worsening symptoms of both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
- Immune system function: Stress may irritate the immune system, which can trigger an autoimmune response. Certain autoimmune disorders, such as Graves' Disease, are associated with thyroid function. Graves' disease is known to be a cause of hyperthyroidism, with 60-80% of cases being linked to the disease. While
hyperthyroidism isn’t directly related to stress like hypothyroidism, added stress leads to greater issues that may cause significant health problems and potentially even death. This change in thyroid health is typically called a Thyroid Storm, a rare but severe complication of hyperthyroidism.
Let’s take a deeper look at thyroid storms and why they are an important complication to watch for in hyperthyroidism.
Thyroid Storms
Many times, severe physical or emotional stress may cause a thyroid storm. It is most common in those with uncontrolled hyperthyroidism and Graves' disease. A thyroid storm occurs when the thyroid gland becomes overactive and a large amount of thyroid hormones enters the bloodstream, overwhelming the body’s systems. This surge of hormones can lead to a rapid escalation of symptoms and is considered an emergency.
Some physical stressors that may cause thyroid storms are:
- Infection/Illness
- Heart attack
- Childbirth
- Diabetes
- Surgery
- Radioiodine therapy (treatment for hyperthyroidism)
In some cases, extreme emotional distress or trauma can be a trigger for Thyroid Storms. If you or a loved one is experiencing emotional challenges while facing hyperthyroidism, keep a close watch for developing symptoms.
Some symptoms of a thyroid storm are:
- Fever
- Sweating
- Rapid heart rate
- Anxiety
- Tremors
- Diaherra
- Nauseous
- Seizures
- Confusion
Recognizing these symptoms is life-or-death, and seeking emergency care can significantly improve the outcome.
#4: Thyroiditis
Thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland that can disrupt normal hormone production. In some cases, it causes a temporary spike in thyroid hormone levels (hyperthyroidism), followed by a drop (hypothyroidism) as the gland becomes damaged or depleted.
When thyroid hormone levels fall too low, metabolism slows down, which can lead to weight gain, fatigue, and other symptoms associated with hypothyroidism. If left untreated, this reduced hormone production can continue to impact weight and overall energy levels.
5 Ways To Minimize Stress and Improve Hyperthyroidism Symptoms
Yes, hyperthyroidism medications can cause weight gain by slowing the metabolism as thyroid hormone levels normalize.
This metabolic shift often leads to increased appetite and reduced calorie burning, which may result in weight gain, especially if eating habits don’t adjust accordingly.
#1: Get Adequate Sleep
Yes, hyperthyroidism medications can cause weight gain by slowing the metabolism as thyroid hormone levels normalize.
This metabolic shift often leads to increased appetite and reduced calorie burning, which may result in weight gain, especially if eating habits don’t adjust accordingly.
#2: Physical Activity
Engaging in physical activity is excellent for your health and reduces stress. A study with 1.2 million people showed that those who exercised had fewer days with negative mental health than those who did not exercise. Regular physical activity can lower cortisol levels, increase mood, and provide more sustainable energy throughout the day.
The general recommendation is 75-150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each week.
Physical activity may:
- Increase your endorphins
- Improve your mood
- Helps with the fight or flight response associated with stress
Some popular physical activities that are great for stress relief are:
- Walking
- Yoga
- Running
- Swimming
#3: Spend Time Relaxing
Relaxation is more than just a luxury–it’s necessary for supporting stress relief. Taking time to unwind may help support overstimulation and promote relaxation.
Some
benefits of relaxation include:
- Improves concentration
- Improves digestion
- Increases blood flow
- Lowers blood pressure
- Lowers the risk of strokes
- Reduces fatigue
- Reduces inflammation
- Lowers heart-rate
Finding the time to relax can be difficult, but prioritizing relaxation can be an essential step toward achieving good health. Even finding 15-30 minutes a day can be the key to reducing your stress load.
Some ways you can relax are:
- Journaling
- Deep breathing
- Going on walks
- Picking up a hobby such as gardening, knitting, or painting
#4: Eat a Balanced Diet
What you eat can affect your health, stress levels, and thyroid function. When you fuel your body with the proper nutrients, your body can better support you. Eating healthy food may take some planning and prep, but it may benefit your overall health. A well-balanced diet can allow your body to function optimally and reduce inflammation, a significant factor in hyperthyroidism care.
Some examples of beneficial nutrients you will find in a well-rounded diet
include:
- Omega-3s: Found in fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseed, omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that may support brain health.
- Protein: Protein, found in meats, eggs, cheeses, and nuts, may help build muscle and boost metabolism.
- Fiber: Lentils, beans, and whole grains may help support digestion and regulate blood sugar.
- Vitamin B12: Commonly found in meat, eggs, and dairy, which can help with red blood cell production. These vitamins help maintain energy and mood, which may be beneficial when managing stress.
- Magnesium: Found in foods like spinach, almonds, and avocados, Magnesium may help relax muscles and lower heart rates.
- Probiotics: Naturally found in foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut which help gut health
At HealthierU, we have programs that can support your diet goals. Request a nutrition consultation today to see how we can help you through hyperthyroidism and beyond.
#5: Seek Support
Finding support may be paramount when it comes to reducing stress. Isolation may worsen mental and physical symptoms, while connecting with others may provide clarity, hope, and relief. Whether it is seeking emotional support or looking for help, surrounding yourself with people who will listen may make a large difference in your mental health.
Some additional support systems include:
- Friends and family: Talking to the people who know you and your situation best may provide clarity and relief.
- Therapists: Licensed professionals are trained to listen and provide personalized support and tools. This unbiased support may benefit those who want help, without sharing personal information with people they know.
- Co-workers: Sharing experiences with colleagues may help with stressors that are commonly found in the workplace
- Support group: Joining groups where others share similar experiences may be beneficial and offer a better sense of understanding.
- Church members: Spiritual communities may provide a different perspective and offer emotional support and belonging
- Coaches: Life or wellness coaches may offer guidance and strategies for mental well-being and achieving goals
- Online Communities: Virtual forms or groups may be a contingent option for finding support and sharing experiences with others.
Minimize Hyperthyroidism Symptoms Through a Holistic Approach With HealthierU
Finding relief from symptoms of hyperthyroidism can be challenging, but you do not have to do it alone. That is why Dr. Sergi at HealthierU set out to support individuals with a holistic, integrative approach. For over 25 years, she has treated thousands of patients with a wide range of health issues, including hyperthyroidism treatment in Brooklyn, New York.
Contact her office today to see how her nurturing and holistic approach to health can make you feel balanced, empowered, and healthier.
