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The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that plays a crucial role in regulating multiple bodily functions. When your thyroid gland is not functioning properly, you may experience a range of unpleasant health issues, including fatigue, weight fluctuations, and depression. We are dedicated to restoring and maintaining optimal thyroid function, a crucial component for your overall health and vitality.
The Role of the Thyroid
The thyroid is a key component of the endocrine system, which also includes the pituitary gland, adrenals, and pancreas. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and growth and development. Impaired thyroid function can lead to a range of symptoms such as fatigue, weight changes, and depression.
Thyroid Disorders: Hypothyroidism & Hyperthyroidism
Thyroid disorders mainly consist of hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is underactive, and hyperthyroidism, which results from an overactive thyroid. Both conditions are 5 to 10 times more likely to affect women than men.
Causes of Dysfunction
Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders are the most common causes of thyroid dysfunction. In Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing hypothyroidism. Conversely, Graves’ disease results in excessive thyroid hormone production, leading to hyperthyroidism. This condition can speed up your metabolism, causing unintended weight loss and irregular heartbeats. Additional symptoms may include anxiety, hand tremors, sensitivity to heat, and sleep disturbances.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, especially in women, can affect thyroid function. Women are more prone to developing an underactive thyroid during pregnancy and after menopause. Additionally, changes in the menstrual cycle can influence thyroid hormone levels, potentially causing dysfunction
Thyroiditis
Thyroiditis, inflammation of the thyroid gland, often leads to temporary thyroid dysfunction. This condition can occur after pregnancy (postpartum thyroiditis) or be triggered by viral infections.
Iodine Levels
Iodine, an essential nutrient present in certain foods and iodized salt, is crucial for the production of thyroid hormones. Both iodine deficiency and iodine excess can lead to thyroid disorders. Iodine deficiency is a frequent cause of hypothyroidism and goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland), more commonly found in regions where iodine-rich foods are limited.
Medications & Radiation
Certain medications can impact thyroid function. Lithium, prescribed for mental disorders, and amiodarone, used for cardiac conditions, can both induce hypothyroidism. Additionally, radiation, particularly when administered to the head and neck for cancer treatment, can also impair thyroid function.
Tumors & Thyroid Nodules
Tumors, whether benign or malignant, on the thyroid or pituitary gland can impact thyroid function. Although most thyroid nodules are noncancerous, some may produce excessive thyroid hormone or disrupt normal gland function.
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Fatigue
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Unexplained Weight Gain
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Inability to Lose Weight
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Mental Fog
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Depression
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Elevated Cholesterol Levels
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Thinning Hair
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Thinning Eyebrows
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Increased Sensitivity to Cold
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Constipation
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Pale, Dry Skin
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Puffy Face
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Hoarse Voice
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Muscle Aches, Tenderness and Stiffness
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Pain, Stiffness or Swelling in Your Joints
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Muscle Weakness
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Heavier than Normal Menstrual Periods
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Brittle Fingernails and Hair
Symptoms of Low Thyroid Function
How Do We Treat Thyroid Disorder?
We focus on optimizing thyroid levels by evaluating and treating both T4 and Free T3 levels. We use a wider range of lab values, including TSH, Free T4, Free T3, Reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies.
Our treatment options include natural desiccated medications like Armour and NP Thyroid, as well as bio-identical compounded T4 and T3 medications. We also monitor both symptom and lab improvement, especially Free T3, to ensure optimal results.
Additionally, we address lifestyle factors such as stress, sleep, nutrition, fitness, and other health conditions in your customized health plan, and utilize high-quality nutraceutical supplements to further improve your overall health and well-being.
What To Expect
As a new patient, your thyroid health journey will start with an initial wellness consultation. During this consultation, your thyroid function will be thoroughly evaluated, including comprehensive labs to assess your hormone levels.
Based on the results, a customized treatment plan will be developed, which may include hormone replacement, lifestyle adjustments, supplements, and other modalities. We will guide you & remain by your side throughout the entire process until we reach optimization.