Hypothyroidism

 

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition whereby the thyroid gland is not producing sufficient amounts of thyroid hormones. Because of this, the body has a lower overall metabolism. Thyroid hormones control all our cells and are responsible for our metabolism as well as many other functions in our body. Approximately 5 million Americans suffer from hypothyroidism. Millions more have subclinical hypothyroidism in the aren’t even aware of it. Many of these people struggle to find balance because slow thyroid function leads to a slower metabolism would you then can lead to weight gain, hair loss, lowered energy levels, and a general sense of not being well. Hypothyroidism is also implicated in cardiovascular disease and other metabolic conditions because your body just does not function optimally.

Causes: There are primarily two main causes of hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroid Treatments San Diego

  • The first is known to be the result of inflammation of the thyroid gland. This condition known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is very common, especially in women. When the thyroid gland is inflamed it is not able to produce the hormones normally that it should produce. This leaves a person with fewer thyroid hormones and an overall slower metabolism. Additionally, they can be suffering from other symptoms such as anxiety, hair loss, weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles, and severe fatigue. This is caused by a person’s immune system whereby the body mistakenly attacks its own thyroid gland. There are many reasons that this could occur and at Integrative Health Solutions we strive to try and identify the root cause of this autoimmune attack
  • The second reason for hypothyroidism can be genetic and is simply that the thyroid is not producing enough of its thyroid hormones. Many times it may be due to an iodine deficiency. other times it can be due to various nutrient deficiencies. At Integrative Health Solutions we strive to identify these so we can correct the situation.

Subclinical Hypothyroidism

Subclinical hypothyroidism is very common and we are very careful to look for this in all patients. It is well established that any TSH level above 2 may indicate subclinical hypothyroidism. We make sure to measure the free thyroid hormones and identify any autoimmune antibodies that may be present when we see a patient who is subclinical hypothyroid. Often, somebody will present with subclinical hypothyroidism and indeed have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis for many years prior to actually being diagnosed. The problem with this is that they are suffering from many of the symptoms of hypothyroidism for years and suffering the consequences of this on their body such as weight gain, hair loss, fatigue,
constipation, and other symptoms associated with hypothyroidism.

How Common is Subclinical Hypothyroidism?

Using the TSH of 5 as a bottom cut-off, it’s estimated that on average, approximately 8 percent of women, and 4 percent of men are subclinical hypothyroid. At Integrative Health Solutions, we use 2.0 as the cut-off so we are able to capture more people and be able to see if indeed they would benefit from thyroid hormone support and management.

The risks associated with untreated subclinical hypothyroidism include

  • Risk of heart attack and atherosclerosis.
  • Risk of high cholesterol and triglycerides and cardiovascular disease
  • Risk of anxiety, depression, or panic attacks.
  • Risks associated with miscarriage
  • Risks associated with miscarriage

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

  • Cold intolerance
  • Muscle cramps and frequent muscle aches
  • Constipation
  • Depression
  • Irritability
  • Memory loss
  • Abnormal menstrual cycles
  • Decreased libido
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Weight gain or increased difficulty losing weight
  • Coarse, dry hair
  • Dry, rough pale skin
  • Hair loss

Why Patients Choose Us

Integrative Health Solutions and Dr. Bronner Handwerger NMD have been treating patients for over 20 years and specialize in endocrinology and supporting and helping patients from all over the world in managing their thyroid conditions utilizing the latest state-of-the-art laboratory testing and technologies. You can contact us, with any questions you might have.