What is Diabetes & Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroid disease) are more common in people with diabetes, especially Type 1 diabetes.
- Both glands – pancreas & thyroid – are part of the endocrine system, so one affects the other.
Why Are They Related
- Autoimmunity link: Type 1 diabetes is autoimmune, and such patients often develop autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto’s or Graves’).
- Insulin resistance link: Hypothyroidism increases weight & cholesterol → worsens insulin resistance → higher chance of Type 2 diabetes.
- Hormonal imbalance: Thyroid hormones control metabolism; imbalance affects blood sugar levels.
Hypothyroidism + Diabetes
More common than hyperthyroidism.
Symptoms: fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, slow heart rate.
- In diabetes, hypothyroidism → makes blood sugar control more difficult, increases cholesterol & risk of heart disease.
Hypothyroidism + Diabetes
Less common, but significant.
Symptoms: weight loss despite increased appetite, sweating, palpitations, tremors.
- In diabetes, hyperthyroidism → causes unstable blood sugar, frequent highs (hyperglycemia), worsens insulin need.
Complications
- Worsening of diabetic control
- Higher risk of cardiovascular disease
- In Type 1 diabetes → risk of other autoimmune conditions like celiac disease
Management
- Regular thyroid screening in diabetic patients.
- Treat thyroid disease (thyroxine in hypothyroidism, anti-thyroid drugs in hyperthyroidism).
- Good lifestyle control (diet, exercise).
- In homeopathy → both conditions are treated constitutionally to balance endocrine system.
Homeopathic Remedies (selected)
Hypothyroidism: Calcarea Carbonica, Sepia, Graphites, Lycopodium
Hyperthyroidism: Iodum, Natrum Mur, Lachesis, Spongia
Autoimmune Thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s/Graves’): constitutional remedy based on totality
