Are you experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, cold hands and feet, unexplained weight gain, dry skin and hair loss, or depression? These signs may indicate low thyroid activity, also known as hypothyroidism. Dr. Stengler, along with many physicians, recognizes the prevalence of thyroid disorders, which are reaching epidemic proportions in our country. At our clinic in La Mesa, CA, we specialize in holistic approaches to thyroid health and offer comprehensive treatment options for individuals with hypothyroidism.
The thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located in the front of the neck, produces hormones that regulate the metabolism of every cell in the body. Hypothyroidism is the most common disorder of the thyroid, affecting approximately 10 million Americans. However, it is believed that the actual number of individuals with the condition is closer to 30 million, including those who remain undiagnosed. It is possible for you or even your physician to be unaware of an underactive thyroid.
Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation and underproduction of thyroid hormones, is the leading cause of hypothyroidism. This condition occurs more frequently in women, with a five to ten times higher prevalence compared to men. Genetic predisposition, imbalances in other hormones (such as insulin resistance), food allergies (including gluten sensitivity), and stress can contribute to low thyroid activity. In rarer cases, pituitary gland failure or tumors may be responsible.
Proper diagnosis of hypothyroidism is crucial but often overlooked by many doctors. The standard thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test, commonly used as a sole diagnostic tool, provides a general indication of thyroid function but fails to capture the nuances of thyroid health. At our La Mesa clinic, we take a holistic approach and recommend a comprehensive thyroid test panel, including free T3 and free T4 evaluation, along with tests for thyroid antibodies. This thorough assessment ensures a more accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Interpreting thyroid test results can be complex. While some patients fall within the lower end of the "normal" range for free T3 and free T4 levels, we believe that the standard for "normal" is set too low. For instance, the normal range for free T3 is typically considered to be 230 to 420 picograms per deciliter (pg/dL). However, we have observed that patients feel significantly better when their free T3 levels are closer to 320 pg/dL or higher. Similarly, optimizing free T4 levels to 1.2 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) or higher can greatly improve overall well-being.
It is essential to evaluate whether an individual has a normal free T4 level combined with a low or low-normal free T3 level. Proper conversion of T4 to T3 is crucial for optimal thyroid function. If difficulties in converting T4 to T3 are identified, supplemental T3 or assistance in the conversion process may be necessary. While many conventional physicians primarily prescribe synthetic T4 medications, such as Synthroid, Levoxyl, and Levothroid, we advocate for natural, bioidentical thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Options like Armour Thyroid, Nature-Thyroid, and Westhroid (derived from desiccated pig thyroid) or compounded bioidentical T4 and T3 offer a more balanced combination of hormones that closely resemble the body's natural production.
In addition to hormone replacement therapy, we emphasize the importance of nutritional support for optimal thyroid function. To help the body produce its own thyroid hormones, we recommend specific nutrients:
Visit Our Clinic in La Mesa, CA
At our La Mesa clinic, we are dedicated to providing holistic care and personalized treatment for individuals with hypothyroidism. Led by Dr. Stengler, a renowned expert in integrative medicine, our team is committed to helping you regain balance, vitality, and optimal thyroid function. If you are seeking effective hypothyroidism treatment in La Mesa, California, we invite you to visit our website at MarkStengler.com or contact us directly at (760) 274-2377 to learn more about our practice and the services we offer.
Don't let the symptoms of hypothyroidism interfere with your well-being. Our clinic in La Mesa is here to support you in understanding and addressing your thyroid concerns. By combining conventional and complementary medicine, we provide comprehensive care that focuses on your overall health and vitality. Take the first step towards optimizing your thyroid health by reaching out to our La Mesa location today.
