Thyroid Disease Management
Hashimoto’s
Are you tired of having thyroid symptoms and being told “Your numbers are normal, there is nothing we can do”?
At Evergreen, we specialize in integrative assessments that include a complete thyroid panel as well as evaluation of factors that may be effecting the thyroid function such as vitamin levels, viral and bacterial illnesses, hormones, exercise, and nutrition.
What is hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone is important for many bodily functions, including metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. When the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, these functions can slow down.
Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism can vary from person to person. Some common signs and symptoms include:
Fatigue
Weight gain
Sensitivity to cold
Constipation
Dry skin
Hair loss
Slow heart rate
Depression
Memory problems
Muscle aches and pains
Menstrual irregularities
Causes of hypothyroidism
A common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto's thyroiditis. In Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to become damaged and less able to produce thyroid hormone. Other causes of hypothyroidism include:
Iodine deficiency
Thyroid surgery
Radiation treatment to the neck
Certain medications, such as lithium and amiodarone
Hypothyroidism is diagnosed with blood tests that measures thyroid hormone levels. If you are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, the most common treatment is medication that replaces the missing thyroid hormone. This medication is usually taken for life.
Many patients, however, still have thyroid disease symptoms once their labs are “normal” and are not offered additional management.
At Evergreen we check complete thyroid panels, not isolated to TSH level. We then assess your symptoms and manage them with dose adjustments, additional medications such at T3, and lifestyle management. We also specialize assessing hormone function to ensure estrogen, progesterone, DHEA, and testosterone are optimal to achieve overall wellness.
Diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism
Other management strategies for hypothyroidism
In addition to medication, there are other things you can do to manage hypothyroidism, such as:
Eating a healthy diet
Getting regular exercise
Staying warm
Managing stress
Hypothyroidism is a manageable condition. With proper treatment, most people with hypothyroidism can live normal, active lives. If you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, it is important to work with a trained clinician to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.