Thyroid hormones are essential to life and affect how the body grows and develops. They also regulate metabolism and influence virtually every organ and tissue in the human body. Thyroid disorders are often overlooked or improperly addressed in conventional medicine. Thyroid conditions often have an autoimmune cause and are best treated by evaluating underlying triggers or causes. Symptoms of a poorly functioning thyroid include weight changes, joint pain, constipation, depression, anxiety, hair loss, temperature intolerances, menstrual irregularity, infertility, and fatigue. Testing thyroid function:
TSH – Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, regulates amount of thyroid hormone produced in the body
Free T3 – Converted from T4 and is the more active and bioavailable form of thyroid hormone. It regulates growth and metabolism throughout the body.
Free T4 – Precursor to T3, T4 is converted to T3 and is not as biologically active as T3.
Reverse T3 – Converted from T4 and opposes action of bioactive T3. Elevations indicate that T3 is not functioning properly.
Anti TPO and Anti-Thyroglobulins – Autoimmune antibodies that indicate the thyroid may be inflamed and/or damaged
Thyroid ultrasound – Evaluates anatomy of the gland. May show inflammation, enlargement, and/or nodules/cysts
Treating thyroid disorders:
Address underlying cause
Treat autoimmunity, toxicity/heavy metals, address nutrient deficiencies, and balance other hormones.
Natural thyroid medication – Contains combination of T3 and T4, which help to support adequate thyroid hormone function in the body.