Treatments for Thyroid Disease

By Mary Shomon, About.com Guide

Recommended thyroid treatment approaches depend on the type of thyroid disease you have, and in some cases, the severity of the condition. This article provides an overview of the treatment approaches for key thyroid conditions -- hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroid disease, Hashimoto's, Graves' disease, thyroiditis, nodules, goiter, and thyroid cancer -- as well as information on the specific treatments.

Hypothyroidism Treatment
Hyperthyroidism / Graves' Disease Treatment
Autoimmune Thyroid Disease Treatment

Goiter/Thyroid Nodules Treatment
Thyroid Cancer Treatment
Alternative and Holistic Approaches to Thyroid Treatment

Hypothyroidism Treatment

Hypothyroidism is treated by replacing the missing hormone, a hormone that is essential to the body’s key functions.

Hyperthyroidism / Graves' Disease Treatment

Hyperthyroidism is treated by reducing the excess hormone levels, which is accomplished in various ways.

Autoimmune Thyroid Disease Treatment

Autoimmune thyroid disease includes Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and Graves' disease. Autoimmunity is usually indicated by the presence of antibodies.

Goiter/Thyroid Nodules Treatment

Doctors may decide to monitor -- rather than treat -- some small goiters or nodules. Some are treated with thyroid hormone replacement drugs to slow, stop, or shrink the growth. Physically or cosmetically problematic goiters are usually treated with radioactive iodine (RAI) or surgery.

Thyroid Cancer Treatment

There are four different types of thyroid cancer: papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic. The treatments are based on the type of cancer, and in some cases, the staging -- how far the cancer has spread to other parts of the body -- as well as if it’s a new cancer or a recurrent cancer.

Alternative and Holistic Approaches to Thyroid Treatment

There are a number of alternative, holistic and integrative ways to approach thyroid disease treatment.

Thyroid Disease