Hyperthyroidism: Dealing Day-to-Day

There are many things you can do to limit the impact hyperthyroidism has on your life. By working with your doctor and following your treatment plan, you can help keep your hyperthyroidism from worsening and lead a lifestyle that is otherwise healthy and fulfilling. For example:

1. Quit smoking

There are a number of excellent reasons to quit smoking whether or not you have hyperthyroidism. However, people who have this condition are especially encouraged to not smoke.

Some research has found smoking to be a risk factor for Graves' disease, the leading cause of hyperthyroidism. Smoking also increases your metabolism, which is already sped up when the thyroid is overactive.

2. Reduce your stress level

Stress is a biological response to a perceived threat. The threat may be physical, as in a traffic mishap, or it may be emotional or mental, such as job or relationship stress. No matter what kind of stress is involved, however, the body's reaction is similar. This stress response is also known at the "fight or flight" response.

Much like smoking, there are many benefits to reducing the amount of stress in your life. For people with hyperthyroidism, this may be especially true, especially if afflicted with symptoms such as nervousness and anxiety.

3. Monitor your iodine intake

Too much iodine in your diet can worsen or in some cases trigger the onset of hyperthyroidism. Some dietary supplements, such as those containing kelp, may also have a lot of iodine. Ask your doctor which foods contain high amounts of iodine and whether it is safe for you to eat them. A simple dietary change such as this one can go a long way in minimizing the effect future symptoms of the disease can have on the body.

4. Be informed about hyperthyroidism

Learn about hyperthyroidism from several reliable sources. Be sure to ask questions of your doctor during your regularly scheduled visits. Don't be shy, either. Doctors are used to hearing about many different medical conditions. Get a second opinion if you think you could benefit from one.

Know what the risk factors are for hyperthyroidism. Learn about all the possible complications of hyperthyroidism. This knowledge could be a powerful motivator and help you deal more successfully with any challenges the condition may present.

5. Consult with your doctor about medications you are taking

Some medications for other conditions may interact negatively with hyperthyroidism medications. It's important to consult with your doctor before you start taking anything new or you make any other significant changes. This includes over-the-counter medications, vitamins and herbal supplements.

6. Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Because stress, smoking, diet and other lifestyle issues are known risk factors for triggering hyperthyroidism, it is very important that you make a healthy lifestyle central to your treatment plan. Take a walk if you feel the stresses of the day weighing on you. If you are having trouble quitting smoking, ask your doctor to recommend a support group, counseling or other assistance.

Exercise is its own reward. However, this is especially true for people with hyperthyroidism. Maintaining a physician-approved exercise program can help reduce stress levels, increase your confidence, and reduce the frequency of symptoms.

Much like exercise, eating a healthful diet is beneficial for a number of reasons. For people with hyperthyroidism, watching your iodine intake carefully can do a great deal in reducing the severity of the condition. Learn about which foods contain high levels of iodine and avoid them as best you can.

Don't be embarrassed to work out, regardless of the reason. If a gym atmosphere is not for you, check out your other options, such as classes at your neighborhood school or community center, or walking clubs. Or, you might prefer to exercise alone, or with a friend or two. Finding a way to exercise where you'll feel comfortable is an important step to sticking to your new fitness routine.

Help the whole family get more active together. See if your friends will join you for a bike ride or yoga class. Making your loved ones part of your healthy lifestyle will help you manage your condition better by not feeling like you're in it all alone. Plus, they will get a great benefit from it as well.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can seem like an overwhelming undertaking considering all of the daily pressures in life. But doing so will not only improve your condition, but also give you the peace of mind that you are doing all you can to fight the effects of hyperthyroidism.

7. Ask about getting tested if it runs in your family

Although it's not clear what causes hyperthyroidism, it can run in families. Consider getting tested for the condition if a parent, aunt, uncle or sibling have been diagnosed. Even if you don't have any symptoms, early diagnosis can improve your treatment options, lessen the severity of future episodes and improve your overall quality of life.

8. Stick to the plan

No amount of good advice or information in the world will help you to manage your hyperthyroidism if you don't follow your treatment plan. Take your medications as instructed, regularly and without variation. Go to your doctor for regular follow-up exams to make sure everything is going smoothly. Don't let a bad day or stressful time distract you from doing what is necessary to keep your hyperthyroidism at bay.

More: Get additional coping tips, and share your own, at the Thyroid Conditions message board.