Treating Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition where, for various reasons, the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. This can lead to several bothersome and concerning symptoms and other health issues, which are often missed when incomplete testing is ordered. This can lead to months or even years of needless suffering. In this blog post, we will discuss the common symptoms of hypothyroidism and the treatment options available to manage this condition.

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is underactive. The thyroid is a small gland located in your neck that plays a crucial role in regulating your body’s metabolism, energy levels, mood, digestion, skin/hair/nail health, and overall health. When it doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, it can slow down many bodily functions.

Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

People with hypothyroidism may experience a variety of symptoms, including:

• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and low energy despite adequate sleep.
• Weight Gain: Unexplained weight gain may occur, even with a health diet.
• Cold Intolerance: Increased sensitivity to cold temperatures.
• Dry Skin: Skin may become dry, rough, and scaly.
• Brittle Nails: nails may become thin and break easily.
• Hair Loss: Thinning hair or hair loss can be noticeable.
• Constipation: Slowed intestinal motility leading to constipation.
• Depression: Mood changes and feelings of sadness.
• Muscle Weakness: Weakness or stiffness in muscles can develop.

If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to consult a licensed healthcare provider for evaluation and testing.

Diagnosing Hypothyroidism

To diagnose hypothyroidism, experienced providers will perform:

• Blood Tests: These tests measure the levels of Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH), thyroid hormones (Total T3, Free T3, Total T4, Free T4, Reverse T3 (rT3), Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Antibodies, Antithyroglobulin Antibodies).
• Physical Exam: Doctors may check for physical signs like an enlarged thyroid or dry skin.

Treating Hypothyroidism

There are effective treatment options for hypothyroidism. The right treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition.

1. Medication

The primary treatment for hypothyroidism is hormone replacement therapy (though it’s rarely referred to as such). None of these medications cure hypothyroidism, but rather give the body the thyroid hormones it is not able to make. 

• Levothyroxine (Synthroid): This is the most common medication prescribed for hypothyroidism. It replaces the T4 hormone that the thyroid isn’t producing enough of. Synthroid often contains gluten and doesn’t replace T3 at all.
• liothyronine (Cytomel): this is a T3 thyroid hormone medication (whereas levothyroxine is T4). In order to balance thyroid hormone levels, sometimes T3 and T4 are needed, and can greatly improve symptoms of hypothyroidism.  
• Compounded T4/T3: specialized compounding pharmacies can make the exact dose, and exact ratio that the prescriber thinks the patient needs. This is very convenient in cases where the patient cannot be optimized on one of the set pharmaceutical dose options, or has an allergy/sensitivity to the fillers or other inactive ingredients in the pharmaceutical thyroid replacement options. The ratio of T4 to T3 can also be adjusted based on patient need. 
• Glandular thyroid (Armour Thyroid, Nature Throid): these prescription thyroid medications come from thyroid glands of animals (usually pigs) and contain a 4:1 ratio of T4 and T3. Replacing both thyroid hormones can be more effective for some patients than replacing T4 alone because conversion from T4 to T3 isn’t always optimal in hypothyroid patients’ tissues. T3 is really the active thyroid hormone, making it essential to improving hypothyroid symptoms. 

2. Regular Monitoring

After starting medication, regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential. They will:

• Monitor hormone levels through blood tests.
• Assess and ask you about your symptoms and how you are feeling with each change.
• Adjust medication dosage as needed to maintain optimal hormone balance.

3. Diet and Nutrition

While medication is crucial, a balanced diet can support thyroid health. Consider the following:

• Iodine: Ensure adequate iodine intake, as it is essential for hormone production. Foods like fish, dairy, and seaweed are good sources. Those with autoimmune thyroid conditions should be cautious with iodine supplementation. 
• Selenium and Zinc: These minerals support thyroid function. Foods like Brazil nuts and pumpkin seeds can be beneficial.
• Avoid Goitrogens: Some foods can interfere with thyroid function if consumed in large amounts, like cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage) when raw. Normal amounts of these healthy foods are usually not a concern. 

4. Regular Exercise

Regular physical activity can help manage weight, improve mood, and boost energy levels. Aim for a mix of:

• Moderate Cardio: Walking or swimming.
• Strength Training: Building muscle can help improve metabolism and mood.

5. Stress Management

Stress can worsen hypothyroid symptoms (partially because it inhibits the conversion of T4 into T3 and instead T4 converts to rT3 which is largely inactive). Techniques to reduce stress include:

• Various breathing exercises: For example, box breathing, physiologic sighs, Wim Hof method
• Vagal nerve stimulation: For example, singing, gargling, humming, hugging, or external vagus nerve stimulation devices 
• Physical activity
• Meditation, yoga
• Ensuring plenty of quality, restorative sleep
• Community and social connection 

Conclusion

Hypothyroidism can significantly affect your quality of life. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking timely medical advice from an actual expert who care about you is essential. With the right diagnosis and treatment, you can effectively manage hypothyroidism and lead a long, healthy, active life.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for support and guidance. If you aren’t finding the care or answers you know you need under a traditional medical model, consider seeking out an experienced functional medicine provider. Taking control of your health starts with understanding your body and the steps needed to care for it.

Nourish House Calls provides Functional and Regenerative Medicine services to patients in Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Pennsylvania, Texas, Oregon, New Hampshire, and Vermont. In-person house calls are available in Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Westmont, Downers Grove, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace, La Grange, Western Springs, Burr Ridge, and surrounding areas. Telemedicine is available both inside and outside of Illinois, including Chicago, Miami, Sarasota, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Phoenix, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Dallas, Houston, and Portland.
If you would like to learn more about how Nourish House Calls can help you optimize your thyroid function, click here to schedule a free, 15-minute discovery call.