Thyroid in relation to fungal infection

Thyroid in relation to fungal infection

One of the most common diseases that people complain about is thyroid. Either they could have an undeveloped or an underdeveloped thyroid. And there are others whose thyroids produce much more hormone than necessary, making the person hyperactive or restless. Thyroid nodules are another problem in some people.

There are other medical failures that a person with thyroid disease should be concerned about. The human immune system has fallen victim to such diseases. Fungal infections are rare but affect a significant number of people with thyroid problems. An underactive thyroid can cause fungal infections of the scalp. This can lead to hair loss, itchy scalp, dandruff and even psoriasis in some rare cases. Sometimes this excessive hair loss leads a person to believe they have thyroid deficiency. People with leukemia or autoimmune diseases are more likely to suffer from hypothyroidism and therefore fungal infections.

A fungal infection can also affect the nail, skin and mucous membranes. Redness, flaking, and severe itching can be some of the symptoms of fungal contamination. The person has a very low tolerance to diseases caused by Candida albicans and in extreme cases it can prove fatal. There might be a rash on the skin and it might even be discolored. If it is a simple skin infection, topical solutions and ointments are recommended. To ensure that no further serious complications arise, the doctor may recommend thyroid function tests such as TSH and Total T4. Sometimes even low levels of vitamin A, an increase in carotene levels, or abnormally high cholesterol levels can indicate hypothyroidism. This in turn would make the person more susceptible to fungal infections. Fungal infections affect the endocrine organs and also the metabolic rate. That is why a person can get tired very easily. Some mushrooms cause thyroid enlargement and fatal respiratory failure can also occur due to obstruction of the trachea. The normal function of the pancreas could be affected.

Antifungal medications that work against yeast can help cure hypothyroidism. In such cases, thyroid supplements in the form of desiccated thyroid, glandular thyroid extract, or even thyroid drops could improve the condition. Goiter, generally caused by iodine deficiency, is worsened by fungal infections. It is important that the thyroid problem is detected early. With medical supervision that includes special medications and a diet plan, this condition can be overcome. Especially because the immune system becomes weak and fungal infections can occur, it is even more important that thyroid diseases are overcome.

Food that may be infected with fungi should be thoroughly cleaned. Food whose shelf life has expired must be disposed of immediately. Cookies, cereals, cucumbers and even vegetables that have been stored for too long should not be consumed. This is also the reason why you need to be careful when getting food from the supermarket. Check whether the expiry date has passed. Iodine must be consumed as a supplement if you don't get enough of it in your diet. There are diets designed for people suffering from thyroid disease due to fungal infections. Organic and fresh vegetables and fruits help as they are least affected by fungal infections. Additional intake of minerals and vitamins may be recommended.

Although the effects of fungal infections on thyroid behavior are being studied, it is evident that a dysfunctional thyroid has negative effects on the human body. It therefore makes sense to keep fungal diseases at bay.

Inspired by Helena Ederveen