Preventing GOITRE

WHAT IS GOITRE?

Goitre is an enlargement or swelling of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is situated in front of the neck. It produces some hormones chief of which are thyroxin (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Iodine and tyrosine are the two ingredients needed to manufacture the hormones. Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid while iodine is essential; and therefore must be consumed daily (in food and water). The hormones (T3 and T4) stimulate body metabolic processes thus promoting growth and development.

CAUSES OF GOITRE Goitre is mediated by thyroid stimulating hormone whenever the blood concentration of thyroxin decreases regardless of the cause. This means that goitre (swelling) may be associated with either under-activity or over-activity of the gland. Dietary deficiencies, heredity, pregnancy and diseases are inducing factors (they reduce thyroxin-release into the blood). Underactivity: results when there is deficiency of iodine in diet. It is characterised by low body activities such as low temperature, low heart rate, slow speech and thought processes as well as slow movements. In infants, it results in cretinism and in adult, myxoedema. Overactivity (hyperthyroidism, thyrotoxicosis):- results when there is over-stimulation of thyroid gland by the controlling hormones. It results in over-activities of body functions, including, irritability, nervousness and restlessness.

How under and overactivity of the thyroid gland causes enlargement: The problem is always with the synthesis and release of the thyroid hormone into circulation. When the supply of iodine is deficient, excess stimulating hormone is secreted and there is proliferation of thyroid gland cells (tissues), resulting in enlargement of the gland. Hyperthyroidism on the other hand represents physiological response to an excessive functioning (or stimulation) of the thyroid gland. Thyroid crisis on the other hand is an exaggerated physiological response to hyperthyroidism. It is a medical emergency (a life-threatening situation).

Management: The overall aim of medical treatment is to control the circulating hormone and its release from store. Goitre is thus prevented or corrected by the introduction of more iodine or iodine salt in diet. Surgery is aimed at removing thyroid gland tissue thereby reducing its hormone production capacity. The products recommended help to balance the body chemistry and supply enough iodine. Once the chemistry is balanced, the body will adjust to any life changes. The body has adequate, competent and reliable self-control system. These products have proved effective over the years.