Hypothyroidism Treatment
Comprehensive diagnosis and management of underactive thyroid conditions
Understanding Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, affecting your body's metabolism and energy levels.
What is the Thyroid?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of your neck. It produces hormones that regulate your body's metabolism, affecting how your body uses energy, maintains temperature, and supports organ function.
When the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones (hypothyroidism), your body's processes slow down, leading to various symptoms that can significantly impact your quality of life.
Key Thyroid Hormones
- T4 (Thyroxine) - Primary hormone produced
- T3 (Triiodothyronine) - Active form of thyroid hormone
- TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) - Regulates thyroid function
Common Symptoms
Physical Symptoms
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight gain
- Cold intolerance
- Dry skin and hair
- Constipation
Mental Symptoms
- Depression
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood changes
- Slow thinking
Diagnosis & Testing
Blood Tests
Comprehensive thyroid function tests including TSH, Free T4, and Free T3 levels to assess thyroid hormone production.
- • TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
- • Free T4 (Thyroxine)
- • Free T3 (Triiodothyronine)
- • Thyroid antibodies
Physical Exam
Thorough physical examination including thyroid palpation, vital signs, and assessment of symptoms.
- • Thyroid gland examination
- • Heart rate and blood pressure
- • Skin and hair assessment
- • Reflexes testing
Medical History
Detailed review of symptoms, family history, medications, and previous thyroid-related conditions.
- • Symptom timeline
- • Family thyroid history
- • Current medications
- • Previous thyroid issues
Treatment Options
Effective hypothyroidism treatment focuses on hormone replacement therapy to restore normal thyroid hormone levels.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
The primary treatment for hypothyroidism involves daily medication to replace the missing thyroid hormones.
Levothyroxine (T4)
Most common treatment - synthetic T4 hormone that your body converts to active T3 as needed.
Combination Therapy
Some patients benefit from combination T4/T3 therapy for optimal symptom relief.
Natural Thyroid
Desiccated thyroid extract containing both T4 and T3 hormones from animal sources.
Monitoring & Adjustment
- Regular blood tests to monitor hormone levels
- Dose adjustments based on lab results and symptoms
- Symptom tracking and quality of life assessment
- Medication timing and absorption optimization
Lifestyle Support
- Nutritional counseling and dietary recommendations
- Exercise guidance for energy and weight management
- Stress management techniques
- Sleep hygiene improvement
Living Well with Hypothyroidism
With proper treatment and lifestyle management, most people with hypothyroidism can live normal, healthy lives.
Medication Adherence
Take thyroid medication consistently, preferably on an empty stomach in the morning
Nutrition
Maintain a balanced diet rich in iodine, selenium, and avoid excessive soy or fiber near medication time
Exercise
Regular physical activity helps boost energy, manage weight, and improve overall well-being
Regular Monitoring
Keep regular appointments for blood tests and medication adjustments as needed
Get Your Thyroid Health Back on Track
Don't let hypothyroidism control your life. Our experienced providers can help diagnose and effectively treat your thyroid condition.