Thyroid Therapy: The Fundamentals

Thyroid Function & Your Body

Why is the thyroid gland important?

The thyroid gland, found in your neck, plays a pivotal role in maintaining your body's overall health. It produces hormones— thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3)—that regulate numerous bodily functions, from metabolism to heart rate to brain development. These hormones are crucial and without the right levels, you can experience adverse effects.

What causes thyroid function to decline?

As you age, your body's systems, including the thyroid, can become less efficient, leading to reduced hormone production. Significant life events, such as pregnancy, can also alter your thyroid function.

Symptoms of low thyroid function can range from fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance to more severe manifestations like depression and slowed heart rate. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to complications such as heart disease, infertility, and in extreme cases, a life-threatening condition called myxedema.

Thyroid Therapy

Treatment for low thyroid function aims to restore normal hormone levels, thereby alleviating symptoms and preventing complications. Several medications can help achieve this goal. Levothyroxine, a synthetic form of T4, is the most commonly prescribed. Armour Thyroid, made from desiccated animal thyroid glands, contains both T3 and T4. Synthroid, another synthetic option, is similar to levothyroxine. The choice of medication depends on factors such as your symptoms, age, and other concurrent medical conditions.

The Modern Age Approach

At our clinic, we take a unique approach to thyroid treatment. While conventional medicine often focuses on bringing hormone levels within a "normal" range, we aim for "optimal" levels. This means we tailor our treatments to help you feel your best, even if your hormone levels fall within the conventionally accepted range. We believe this approach can lead to a higher quality of life and better symptom control.

However, it's essential to understand that this approach may differ from conventional thyroid care, and it's crucial to have ongoing discussions with your clinician about the best treatment plan for you.
It's essential to communicate any side effects to your healthcare provider, as adjustments in dosage or medication type can often alleviate these issues.
The journey to optimal thyroid health is a personal and individual process. It requires a partnership between you and your clinician to ensure the best outcomes. At our clinic, we are committed to guiding you on this journey, focusing on optimal hormone levels and your overall well-being.